Amazon announces all-new Fire HD 8 and Fire HD 8 Kids Edition

A couple of months after unveiling their all-new Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids Edition, the company has also released two new versions of the 8 inch variant of their tablets with hands-free Alexa support -  The Amazon Fire HD 8 and Amazon Fire HD 8 Kids Edition.

Amazon Fire HD 8

The Amazon Fire HD 8 hasn't changed much since its predecessor. It's still powered by a 1.3GHz quad-core processor and 1.5GB of RAM. However its VGA camera has been replaced with a 2MP front camera, while the 2MP rear camera remains the same. The 8 inch display retains the "vibrant" 1280 x 800 pixel resolution. You can pick the device up in 16GB or 32GB storage options with microSD expansion available.

Alexa is now “always-ready” on the standard Fire HD 8, which means it can be launched hands free for video playback, stream music, read you an Audible book, or launch an app without requiring you to ever use your hands.

The tablet offers "up to 10 hours of mixed use" and with its new Show Mode, you can turn your tablet into an Echo Show smart speaker with "full screen visual responses optimized to be glanceable whether up close or across the room."

The Fire HD 8 also comes with dual Dolby Atmos-enhanced stereo speakers and dual-band Wi-Fi support. The tablet is available for pre-oder and will cost only $79.99 for the base model. Shipments begin on October 4.

Amazon Fire HD 8 Kids Edition

The slightly costlier 'Kids Edition' of the Fire HD 8 features the same internal hardware as the regular version but packs a colorful protective case, as well as FreeTime Unlimited access for a year, and a 24-month worry-free guarantee that means Amazon will replace the slate if your children break it, no questions asked.

You also get plenty of pre-loaded educational content and “award-winning” parental controls.

The Kids Edition is only available in a 32GB configuration and will cost you $129.99. Like the regular model, you can pre-order it today, and it will be shipped out to you on October 4.