We are pleased to let you know that software version 2.3.1 is now available for Orbit Speak and Orbit Speak Plus.
This release brings Amazon Alexa support to Orbit Speak Plus, along with several bug fixes for both Orbit Speak and Orbit Speak Plus.
Important: This update is intended only for devices running software version 2.1 or later. If your device is still running version 1.x, please upgrade to version 2.1 first. Do not install version 2.3.1 directly over version 1.x.
We also recommend consulting the updated user guide available on our website to take full advantage of the features and improvements in this release.
Changes and Improvements
Amazon Alexa Support for Orbit Speak Plus
Orbit Speak Plus users can now install and use the Amazon Alexa Android application from the App Catalog.
With Alexa, you can access services such as Kindle and Audible, listen to internet radio, control compatible smart-home devices, and use other Alexa features. The availability and functionality of these services depend on Amazon and other third-party providers, your account, subscription requirements and your country or region. Not all features or services may be available to every user.
You can interact with Alexa by activating the “Talk to Alexa” button within the Alexa application, or by saying the Alexa wake word while the application is open and focused on its main screen.
For installation instructions and more information about using Alexa, please refer to the Alexa User Guide for Orbit Speak Plus.
Please note that Alexa is a third-party application provided by Amazon. Orbit Research does not provide technical support for the installation, setup, operation, or troubleshooting of Alexa or other third-party Android applications.
Bug Fixes for Orbit Speak and Orbit Speak Plus
Version 2.3.1 also includes the following fixes for both devices:
- Fixed an issue where text-to-speech voices could sometimes change unexpectedly instead of retaining the selected voice.
- Fixed an issue where speech settings could occasionally revert to their defaults after restarting the device.
- Fixed a stability issue that caused the Google text-to-speech engine to reload unexpectedly.
Steps for Updating the Software
Please follow the steps below to update the software. If you have already set up your Wi-Fi connection, you will automatically be notified of new software updates and will be able to download and install them easily.
Here are the steps to connect to a Wi-Fi network, if you have not already done so:
- From the home screen, locate the settings folder and activate it with the select key or dot 8.
- In the settings folder, locate the device settings item and activate it with the select key or dot 8.
- In the settings application, locate the Wi-Fi settings item and activate it with the select key or dot 8.
- The device will scan for available networks and will show the network list. Use the up/down arrows to find your network, and press select or dot 8 to connect to it.
- If the network is password protected, a dialog will pop up asking you to enter the password. Please enter the password and press the select key or dot 8.
- The device will connect to the network and give you an indication that the connection has been successfully completed.
- You can now press the home key or space + dots 1-2-3-4-5-6 to go back to the home menu.
Once your device is connected to the Wi-Fi network, the following are the steps for updating the software:
- From the home screen, navigate to the utilities folder and activate it with the select key.
- Locate the “Check for updates” item inside of the utilities list and activate it with the select key.
- Locate the check for updates now button and press select to activate it.
- The device will tell you that there is a newer software version available and will ask you if you want to install it. Activate the yes button inside the dialog that will pop up.
- Wait until the device downloads, installs the update, and restarts. Progress indications will be given throughout the process.
Note: During installation, you might hear the device speaking the home screen. This is normal. Do not touch the device until you hear it restart.
We hope you enjoy these improvements, particularly the new Alexa capability on Orbit Speak Plus. Thank you for your continued support and for the feedback and suggestions you share with us.