Those other methods involve you having your device at hand or getting it out of your pocket, unlocking it, etc. The Echo isn't at its full potential, but the b

Those other methods involve you having your device at hand or getting it out of your pocket, unlocking it, etc. The Echo isn't at its full potential, but the basics can be useful and you can see where it's going. Once they handle a broader variety of things, they will be a no-brainer for every household that isn't nervous about privacy issues. (i.e., almost everyone) I use it to set cooking timers without stopping what I'm doing or needing a hand free. My kids use it to play music. e.g., my three year old can play a particular album without knowing how to spell it and without having to nag me to do it. They also love asking it questions like "how many teeth does a horse have?" or "how much does an elephant weigh?"