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Your Amazon Echo is also a motion detection security device - here's how to set it up

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Amazon Echo devices, like all of the best smart speakers, have revolutionized how we interact with technology. While most people are familiar with its voice-controlled features, such as streaming music, setting alarms, or asking questions to help complete your daily crossword puzzle, depending on the model, your Echo could be hiding a secret feature that you're not familiar with.

A hidden ultrasound motion detector. That's right, your Amazon Echo isn't just listening to the commands you give it, it also has integrated technology that can sense if you're in the room.

While this may sound like a step too far, it's actually a pretty cool feature that can be used to help you do things such as automatically turning on your lights, setting your fan to on when it gets too hot in the middle of the night and even alerting you to intruders.

Using ultrasonic sensing and routines with your Amazon Echo allows it to do a lot of things. If you have smart bulbs, then you can program it to switch on your lights when you enter a room. Or you could use it to create a morning routine, such as having your Echo deliver the daily news while you make your breakfast.

But for this guide, we are going to walk you through how to use your Amazon Echo to alert you to intruders. It works the same way as a traditional security system, if someone enters the room your Amazon Echo is placed in, and no one is meant to be home, then you can set it so that it sends a message to your phone, plays a sound or triggers a smart device such as putting all the lights on. This doesn't just work well for intruders, it's also a great feature to have if you have pets whom you want to keep confined to certain rooms in the house.

How to set up Amazon Echo motion detection to alert you to intruders

To show you how to set up motion detection, we're going to walk through setting it up to detect intruders, but you could also follow the same process to control your other smart home tech, or simplify your daily routine.

Note: these instructions work whether you're using an Android or iOS device.

You're now all setup. It's the exact same process if you want to set your Echo up to turn on the lights when you enter a room or perhaps switch your AC on if it gets too hot in the middle of the night. Although, if you are wanting to use this with your appliances, you will need Amazon-compatible smart devices for it to work.

Which Echo devices have the ultrasonic sensor?

Not all Amazon Echo devices are equipped with this technology. It works with the 4th-generation Echo or , and the 5th-generation Echo Dot. It doesn't work with the Echo Show as the displays rely on camera-based motion sensing rather than ultrasonic sensing. Additionally, the newly introduced does not support ultrasonic sensing either.

How does the technology work?

Compatible Echo speakers use ultrasonic technology in the same way bats utilize sonar to locate their prey. Once you've enabled this feature in the Alexa app settings, your device will then continuously emit inaudible sounds. The built-in microphone monitors any changes in the way these waves bounce back, allowing it to recognize when there's a movement within the room.

How your Amazon Echo knows what to do next depends on your settings. It works by creating 'routines' in the app, which are essentially pre-programmed commands. So, whereas you would normally say, "OK, Alexa, turn on my lights", by setting up a routine, it'll automatically know when to do it when you walk into a room. The range and sensitivity can all be adjusted within the app according to your personal preferences.

There's plenty of different features and settings hidden within your Amazon Echo for you to explore. Why not check out our guide on how to delete an Alexa profile. Or perhaps you'd like to know what data Alexa has on you, here's how to see and delete Alexa's recordings of you. But if you're happy with your Echo and want to kick back and read a book whilst your device is streaming some tunes, then here's a guide on how to buy books on Kindle.

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Your Amazon Echo is also a motion detection security device - here's how to set it up

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Your Amazon Echo has a hidden motion sensor feature that allows you to do some pretty cool stuff, from switching on lights to setting alerts for intruders.

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Streaming With Alexa: How to Listen to Music on an Amazon Echo

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Streaming With Alexa: How to Listen to Music on an Amazon Echo

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Alexa is a jack of all trades, but Amazon’s digital assistant can also help you listen to music via Pandora, Spotify, and other streaming services on your Echo device. Here’s how.

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George Carlin gives stunningly accurate truths about the ruling class.

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How to Listen to Kindle Books on iPhone - Make Any Book an Audiobook

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How to get Alexa to read your kindle book to you.

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How to get Alexa to read your kindle book to you.

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✅ For a step-by-step guide to self-discipline checkout my course, POWER Mornings. It's a simple morning routine designed for productive Christians.

In the evenings, Charles Spurgeon's wife would sit on a cushion at his feet and read to him. So far, I have been unsuccessful in persuading my wife to do the same for me, but I think I may have found an alternative solution. I now listen to Kindle books on the iPhone.

Wouldn't it be great if you could squeeze in a few more chapters of your Kindle book while driving, exercising, or doing housework? Well, you can! In this post, I am going to show you how to listen to Kindle books on the iPhone.

I've also made a video demonstrating the steps detailed below.

Certainly, audiobooks fill the need for hands-free reading to a degree.

Between Audible and Christian Audio a decent offering of Christian books can be found. But Kindle's selection is much larger. And if you follow Tim Challies ' blog (which you should), you likely have a prodigious selection of Kindle books you bought on sale for $2.99 but have never read. Plus, most new books release straight to Kindle at the same time the paperback comes out, but the audiobook version (if it ever does come) arrives much later to the publishing party.

Tragically, even in this era of e-books, we are still stuck reading most books with our eyes. Who will deliver us from this ocular tyranny?

Enter: Amazon Alexa.

It's a little-known feature that any Amazon Echo device can read your Kindle books aloud to you, even if you don't own the corresponding audiobook (this works with any Kindle book that supports text-to-speech technology).

And the really cool thing is, you don't need to have an Amazon Echo device to take advantage of this feature. All you need is the free Alexa app. Here's how you do it.

Step #1: Download and log in to the Amazon Alexa app

Go to your device's app store (works on iOS and Android). Search "Alexa", and download the free app.

Open the app and log in to the Amazon account where you have your Kindle books.

Step #2: Press the blue Alexa button and say, "Alexa, play the Kindle book, [title]"

For example, "Alexa play the Kindle book, 'The Imperfect Disciple'"

It's as simple as clicking the Alexa button and saying "play the kindle book, [title]"

Alexa will then begin reading the book at whatever point you last left off.

This also highlights another feature of this method-you can read books in a hybrid manner-you can listen on your phone or echo device while doing chores, exercising, or driving and at other times you can read them like normal on your Kindle device. Amazon takes care of remembering where you left off no matter how you consume the book.

Step #3: Pause, play, and control speed with voice commands

In addition to playing the Kindle titles, there are a few other voice commands you'll want to be aware of. These are taken from Amazon's help center article on this feature.

"[Pause / Stop / Resume]."

"[Skip ahead / Skip back]."

"Volume [1-10]."

"Open my Kindle books."

"Show me my Kindle books."

Once the book is playing, you can pause and play it on your phone using touch controls.

For some reason they don't include this in the list of commands, but you can also say "play slower" or "play faster" and Alexa will step up or down the speed of reading by 1/4 increments.

Step #4: Listen to Kindle books without using your voice

Sometimes when you're out in public you don't want to have to use the voice commands. It can be embarrassing to shout at your phone while you're on the treadmill at the gym. Thankfully, most of the Kindle reading functions are available through touch controls as well.

To manually select a Kindle book to play aloud, in the Alexa app just go to the "Play" menu at the bottom of the screen and scroll down to "Kindle Library".

Here you can browse books available for listening through the Alexa app. Just tap on the title you want and select the device you want it to play on-for your phone just select "this device".

Don't judge me for reading Harry Potter (or for the stupid face I'm making in this screengrab).

Note: I did notice that all of my eligible Kindle books did not appear on this screen. For those, I was still able to get them to play using the voice commands.

Now You Can Listen to Kindle Books on iPhone!

Congratulations! Your eyes are now free. Use your new powers wisely.

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How to Listen to Kindle Books on iPhone - Make Any Book an Audiobook

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How to have iOS read your Kindle books to you out loud. Use the free Alexa app to listen to Kindle books on iPhone, iPad, or iPod.

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Simplify Your Morning Routine by Setting Up These Amazon Alexa Routines

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How to set up an Alexa routine

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Our smart technology works best for us when it automates the essential parts of our day. Sure, you might see as the follower of your individual commands, but did you know that you can program her to automate the crucial parts of your routine with a few simple voice prompts?

Giving Alexa one command at a time can be inconvenient when you're pressed for time (we know how chaotic it can get when getting ready for work). Fortunately, you can create routines on your Amazon Echo so that you can have several commands performed at one time. For example, when you wake up in the morning, you can have Alexa turn on the lights, read you the daily headlines and start the coffee pot by simply saying, "Alexa, good morning."

Customized routines can also include making the lights brighter in the morning, reporting the traffic for your daily commute and playing your favorite songs -- basically automating all the things you would usually do anyway. The goal of Alexa routines is to make your day seamless and productive. Here's what you need to know to get started. You can also learn which Alexa settings you should change ASAP, and five tips for setting up your new Echo device.

How to create an Alexa routine on your Amazon Echo

1. Open the Amazon Alexa app on your mobile device.

3. Tap the plus (+) sign in the top right corner.

4. Select When this happens and choose how you want to trigger the routine. These are your options:

Screenshot by Katie Conner/CNET

Voice: Your voice command will begin the routine. For example, "Alexa, I'm awake" or "Alexa, start my day."

Schedule: Set a time for Alexa to begin your routine. You won't need a wake word for this.

Device: Alexa will complete the actions using your Amazon Echo Hub.

Location: When you arrive somewhere, like home, Alexa can begin your routine for that location.

Alarm: When you dismiss an alarm, your routine will begin.

Echo Button: Press your Amazon Echo Button to start a routine.

5. Next, tap Add action and select everything you want Alexa to do during this routine.

6. Choose From to select which of your Amazon devices will control the routine.

7. Hit Create.

Hey, Alexa, help me wake up

Alexa can start your morning routine before you're even awake. Set a schedule that tells Alexa to slowly start turning up lights and start brewing your coffee. Once you're awake, say, "Hey, Alexa, good morning" to trigger your morning routine. Set actions so that the Amazon Echo will read you the weather, give your email summary, run down what's on your calendar for the day and let you know what's going on in the news.

Alexa can make your commute more enjoyable

Your favorite morning commute playlist is essential to waking up (aside from all the coffee you just drank). You can tell Alexa to start playing your wake-me-up music, and if you commute through a busy city, it could also be useful to have Alexa read the traffic report.

Use a voice command like, "Hey, Alexa, I'm commuting to work" to activate Alexa. You might also want to add an action that tells Alexa to turn off your smart lights and plugs too, just in case you forgot.

Read more: Music on Your Alexa Speaker Can Sound Better

Alexa can turn on the lights when you get home

Wouldn't it be nice to arrive home to a well-lit house, rather than trying to navigate up the dark stairs leading to your front door? You could set up a voice routine, but we like the location routine for this one.

You'll just need to select Location from the options and enter your home address so that getting near your home will trigger the routine. Once you've done that initial setup, you can add actions to the routine like turning on the porch lights when you arrive home.

Alexa can help you fall asleep faster

Once you're cozied up in your bed and ready to snooze, start your bedtime routine by using another trigger phrase -- it can be something like, "Alexa, I'm ready for bed." For this routine, you'll want to make sure you've enabled the action that lets Alexa turn off your lights.

If you typically have a hard time falling asleep, use the Music action to play rain sounds or relaxing music. You can play songs and playlists from your Library, Amazon Music, iHeartRadio, Pandora and TuneIn. Don't forget to set a timer to turn the music off so it's not playing all night.

Want more Amazon Echo pointers? Here's tips for getting the most out of your Alexa timers and alarms. We can also help you decode what all those colored lights on your Amazon Echo mean.

More Alexa tips:

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Simplify Your Morning Routine by Setting Up These Amazon Alexa Routines

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Our smart technology works best for us when it automates the essential parts of our day. Sure, you might see as the follower of your individual commands, but did you know that you can program her to automate the crucial parts of your routine with a few simple voice prompts?

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Amazon Excess: Put an Alexa Device in Every Single Room of Your Home

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Did that headline make you do a double-take? That's understandable. What kind of person has an Amazon device in every room? Well, call me strange, but don't judge before you hear me out. Why? Because there are so many neat tricks you can do with that you have laying around or that that's slowly getting dusty in the corner of your room.

I had two Echo Dots -- both white that I'd since replaced with the better-sounding fourth-gen "orbs." But those old hockey pucks still rock, especially when paired with my black , so I dug them out and found homes for both of them. One third-gen Dot went in my half-bath, the other in my upstairs hallway -- bringing my menagerie of Alexa devices up to a whopping 11 and . That means I now have one Alexa speaker or display every few feet throughout my home.

Is that overkill? Yeah, you could say that. Should you still put an Alexa device in your bedroom and bathroom and garage (you get the gist!) anyway? Well, absolutely. Once you do, you'll wonder why you never did it before. That's because there are some unique advantages to keeping a houseful of Alexa devices.

Here are all of the neat tricks you can implement with those Amazon gadgets you already have laying around, plus some tips on how to keep everything in order. And if you're itching to purchase some new Echo devices, check out the , the best cheap Alexa devices and the , too.

Why so many Alexa devices? Because more is better

Some Alexa features just work better the more Amazon Echo speakers and displays you have set up in your home. For example, if you've never experienced whole-house audio before, it's a surprisingly dazzling experience -- even if most of your speakers are Echo Dots (and even if you don't have an Amazon Echo Subwoofer). On days when you're moving a lot from room to room -- cleaning the house, say, or hosting a get-together -- it's remarkable how neat it is to have music playing everywhere you go.

But there are other nifty ways to use a houseful of Alexas, too. Besides multiroom music, here are some of my other faves:

Announcements: Say, "Alexa, announce dinner is ready," or, "announce that it's bedtime," and check out what happens (Alexa adds some audio "color" to the message).

Drop In: You can have an intercomlike conversation with someone in a specific room -- "Alexa, drop in on the kitchen" -- or with the whole house at once -- "drop in everywhere."

Multiroom audio (but in the same room): You may only be able to pair identical speakers together in stereo, but you can put any two or three or more speakers together in the same room, even though the feature is called "Multi-room."

But before you get started on any of this, the first thing you'll want to rein in is all those Echo devices that could mistakenly respond to you (up next).

Assign wake words other than 'Alexa'

If you're like me and have multiple Echo devices in the same area, then you already know how annoying it can be to yell, "Alexa!" and have every device compete for your attention. If you have two or more devices in the same vicinity, then it's best to give each one its own wake word.

For example, I have an Echo Show in my kitchen and an Echo Dot in the living room just a few feet away. I use the Dot mostly to play music, not necessarily to listen for commands. I gave that speaker (and other speakers I just use for audio) a other than "Alexa."

While Amazon's traditional options for calling up your voice assistant are Alexa, Computer, Amazon and Echo, there are several newer wake word additions you can use like and . Unfortunately, you can't give it a name other than these, so you'll have to hold off calling your device "Buddy" or something else unique.

Here's how to change the wake word on individual devices:

1. Open the Alexa app, navigate to Devices.

2. Tap Echo & Alexa from the top row of icons.

3.Tap the name of the device with the wake word you want to change. You'll have to change each device's wake word separately.

4. Select the Settings icon in the top right-hand corner then scroll down and tap Wake Word.

5. Pick a wake word other than Alexa (see above for your options).

6.Tap OK when a pop-up lets you know it might take a few minutes to change over, then either back out of that menu or close the app.

You can also change the wake word with voice commands, too. Simply say, "Alexa, change your wake word." Alexa will prompt you to pick from the list of offered wake words. Then select whichever word you want.

Now you're all set! And you can always go back and change the wake word at any point.

Read more: All Amazon Echo Wake Words That Aren't Alexa -- and What They Do

Pair Alexas for stereo and multiroom audio groups

If you've got two identical devices (or functionally identical -- the same-generation Echo Dot, Echo Dot with Clock and Echo Kids are all interchangeable in this sense) you can pair them so that audio is divided into left and right channels, like a bona fide stereo system. That pair will then appear as a single speaker in the Alexa app when directing audio in a routine or creating an even bigger set of speakers (more on that shortly).

Before you set this up, make sure both speakers are in the same virtual "room" in your Alexa app and that both are on the same network. Then, do this:

1.Open the Alexa app, tap Devices on the bottom menu bar, then tap the plus sign (+) in the upper right corner.

2.Tap Combine speakers, then tap Stereo pair / subwoofer. Tap one of the speakers you want to use, then the app will highlight compatible speaker options -- tap one, then tap Next.

3.The app will assign the right channel to one and the left channel to the other, but you can tap Swap Speakers to toggle the options, then tap Next.

4. Name your new stereo pair (I usually stick with the name of the room, such as "Master Bedroom").

Multiroom audio works similarly, but without the stereo separation. Also, you can combine unalike speakers, and previously paired stereo pairs, as many of them as you wish. And, again, the speakers don't have to be in different rooms. Here's how to do it:

1.Open the Alexa app, tap Devices on the bottom menu bar, then tap the plus sign (+) in the upper right corner.

2.Tap Combine speakers, then tap Multi-room music. Tap all of the speakers you want to include in the group, then tap Next.

3.The app will assign the right channel to one and the left channel to the other, but you can tap Swap Speakers to toggle the options, then tap Next.

4. Either choose a name from the list or type your own custom name at the bottom, then tap Save.

Protect your Amazon Echo privacy

With all of these Echo devices scattered around your home, you're probably wondering: Is Alexa always listening? It's a good question considering no one wants Alexa to be privy to our confidential conversations.

Echo devices have raised plenty of privacy concerns. Even though they're only recording and transmitting audio to Amazon's cloud when the blue light activates, it's widely known that Echo devices can be activated without you knowing it if one of them hears something similar to its wake word (for instance, if you say something like "election" or "I'd like some" instead of "Alexa"). It's also worth understanding that Amazon employees can listen to your Alexa conversations if you don't take certain precautions.

Luckily, there are settings and other hacks to keep Amazon out of your business.

For one, you can unplug the device or turn the mic off by pressing the microphone's mute button to make sure Alexa isn't always listening. You can also update the settings to delete your Amazon voice transcripts immediately so they can't be reviewed by Amazon employees. You can read our full rundown of .

For more cool Alexa tricks, take a look at six useful Amazon Echo tips you'll want to use every day, some you can ask Alexa and a few more commands you can try tonight .

More tips for Alexa

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Amazon Excess: Put an Alexa Device in Every Single Room of Your Home

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You can never have too many Amazon Echos, especially when you can use them to try these nifty tricks.

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The Echo Pop is the new entry-level Alexa-powered speaker, and Amazon brings better sound and a faster processor to its $90 Echo Show 5 smart display.

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Trouble Falling Asleep? Your Amazon Echo Can Help You

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We've all been there: You're exhausted all day while working and have to take care of all your home duties in the evening. You feel like you could immediately fall asleep, but as soon as you hit the sheets, insomnia hits. Now you're stuck tossing and turning for hours on end, and once again, not getting enough sleep. This is when it's time to use your Amazon Echo to help ease your mind and drop off to sleep.

Alexa can help you fall asleep with guided meditation and relaxation sounds to clear your head. It can even read bedtime stories to your little ones to help them fall asleep.

Keep reading to get started on your journey to relaxation and peaceful sleep. For more sleep tips, find out what your sleep language is.

Read more: 7 Products to Help You Stop Snoring

Guided meditation can help calm your mind

Before bed, you should really think about easing your mind from all of the day's stresses you've encountered. is a great form of stress and anxiety relief that can help you relax and calm your thoughts enough to lull you into sleep.

Your Amazon Echo has guided meditation built-in, so all you have to say is "Alexa, open Guided Meditation." There's a meditation of the day, so you'll always have a new one to follow along with.

Use rain sounds to fall asleep

If you easily fall asleep when it's raining outside, then you'll love this one. It puts me right to sleep. Just say, "Alexa, play rain sounds" and your Echo will immediately conjure up the sound of a shower.

It'll continue playing until you tell Alexa to stop. But if you don't want rain sounds playing all night, you can always to make it stop at a specified time.

Launch the Sleep Sounds skill

If you want to fall asleep to a different sound every night, this is a good skill to use. It has over 125 sounds to choose from, including thunderstorms, ocean sounds and crickets. When you're ready for a snooze, just say "Alexa, tell Sleep Sounds to play thunderstorms," or whatever sound you want to hear. You can set a sleep timer so it won't play all night by saying "Alexa, set a sleep timer for three hours."

To download it, open the Alexa app, go to your Skills section and type "sleep" in the search bar. Scroll until you see the Sleep Sounds skill. Select it and tap Launch.

Read more: The 8 Best White Noise Machines to Make You Sleep Like a Baby in 2023

Echo has a built-in night light

Not everyone can sleep in a pitch-black room, but a TV can be distracting when you're trying to snooze. If all you need is a little light, then put your Echo's ring light to use. Just say "Alexa, open night light" and the top of your Echo will start glowing and pulsing. It'll glow for five minutes unless you give it a specific amount of time.

This is especially useful if you find yourself needing to get out of bed at night because it offers just the right amount of light. When you're ready to turn the night light off, just say "Alexa, stop."

Read more: Best Sunrise Alarm Clocks for 2023

Help your kids fall asleep with a short bedtime story

If you're busy finishing up work or home errands, you can have Alexa read short bedtime stories to your little ones. You'll have to enable the skill in the Alexa app (there are several to choose from). The Short Bedtime Stories skill offers 11 different stories that can be customized to include your child's name.

Once the skill is enabled, you can say "Alexa, open bedtime stories and play all stories" or "Alexa, open bedtime stories and play Little Red Riding Hood." If there's a story your child doesn't like, they can say "Alexa, next" to skip and move on to the next story.

For better sleep, take your sleep to the next level with one of these best mattresses CNET has identified.

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Trouble Falling Asleep? Your Amazon Echo Can Help You

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We've all been there: You're exhausted all day while working and have to take care of all your home duties in the evening. You feel like you could immediately fall asleep, but as soon as you hit the sheets, insomnia hits. Now you're stuck tossing and turning for hours on end, and once again, not getting enough sleep.

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The 50 Best Alexa Skills That Help Make Your Life Much Easier

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The 50 Best Alexa Skills That Help Make Your Life Much Easier

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We have tested and compiled some of Alexa’s most helpful, clever and entertaining skills available today. Here’s our favorite 50 Alexa skills.

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5 Ways Amazon Alexa Can Help You Do Laundry

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Spring has officially sprung, which means it's a great time to start spring cleaning. From cleaning your washing machine to wiping down your bathroom to cleaning out your closet, it's that time of year to really reset. And that means doing laundry.

You probably already know how useful Alexa is around the house, but have you ever used your Amazon Echo device to help you do your laundry? If not, you're really missing out.

Here's several neat ways you can use Alexa commands and skills to make laundry day easier. For more tips, learn how to best wash your sheets and bedding , and learn about these laundry symbols or you might ruin your clothes.

1. Set laundry timers

If you can't typically hear when your washer or dryer buzzes, get Alexa to notify you.

First, you'll need to time how long each load takes in your machine. Rather than standing in front of your washer the entire time, check the machine after half an hour or 45 minutes to get a general idea.

Next, go into the Alexa app and tap the menu button (the three horizontal lines) and tap Routines. Tap the plus sign to create a Routine. With Alexa, you cannot just set a timer in a Routine, but there is an easy workaround. In the When this happens part of the Routine, select Voice, and then type in whatever you want to say to Alexa to start the timer -- something like "Alexa, start my washing machine timer."

Next, tap Add action and select Wait. Select the amount of time it takes for your washer or dryer to complete a load of laundry. Finally, tap Add action, Alexa says, and type in whatever you want Alexa to say to you when the time is up.

The next time you throw a load of laundry into your washing machine, start the Routine by saying the trigger phrase.

2. Get new cleaning tips

Don't know how to clean something? Enable the Laundry Buddy skill so you can ask Alexa. First, you need to say, "Alexa, open Laundry Buddy," each time you have a question. Then, you just need to ask your question.

Unfortunately, the skill doesn't seem to answer specific questions about stains. It will, however, give you detailed answers on how to clean things like jeans, car seats and coats. If you have specific questions about stains, you can consult our stain removal guide.

3. Blast stains

Though Laundry Buddy doesn't help with stains, the Stain Remover skill, does. The skill has instructions for how to remove dozens of the most common stains, including wax, coffee and grass stains. To use the skill, say something like, "Alexa, ask Stain Remover how to remove coffee stains."

4. Check for open washers and dryers

If you live in a dorm, some universities offer Alexa skills that you can use to monitor the availability of open washers and dryers in the laundry room. Some of these skills include Illinois Laundry Checker, Laundry Check and Terp Laundry.

A quick search for "laundry" and your university's name in the skill search box should come up with the skill for your dorm if available.

5. Skip the sniff test

Can't remember the last time you washed your sheets or your favorite hoodie? Just have Alexa remember for you using the Laundry Mate skill.

When you wash something, say, "Alexa, tell Laundry Mate I washed my [bedding/or other item] today." When you need a reminder ask, "Alexa, when was the last time I washed my (item)."

Consult these guides if you want to know how often you should wash your sheets or clean your bathroom.

More laundry tips and tricks

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5 Ways Amazon Alexa Can Help You Do Laundry

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Spring has officially sprung, which means it's a great time to start spring cleaning. From cleaning your washing machine to wiping down your bathroom to cleaning out your closet, it's that time of year to really reset. And that means doing laundry.

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Learn more about communication features on Alexa.

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Alexa, find my phone: How to use Amazon Echo to find your LOST phone

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Alexa, find my phone: How to use Amazon Echo to find your LOST phone

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Alexa commands don't meet your needs? Just make your own

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Program your Alexa commands using i.F, TTT

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Program your Alexa commands using i.F, TTT

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Your trusty does a lot for you each day: It can read the day's headlines, , , entertain your kids with fun games and set a kitchen timer. But have you ever wanted more from your ?

If you're tired of the same old Alexa tricks, then you're in luck. We're going to show you how you can make your Echo do anything you want by customizing your own Alexa voice commands.

How does it work? Well, Amazon Echo boasts , the free online automation service that lets you craft your own automated "recipes," also known as Applets, using an "if this, then that" approach. That opens the door to use Echo with even more and services, and thanks to a cool update to that IFTTT channel, you can use it to create your own custom Alexa voice commands, too. Keep reading to learn how to set it up.

Read more: Every Alexa command you can give your Amazon Echo device

1. Connect Amazon Echo to your home's Wi-Fi network

It probably goes without saying, but you can't start automating with Alexa unless your Amazon Echo is up and running on your .

Fortunately, setup is a cinch. Just plug the Echo in, connect to its Wi-Fi signal on your Android or iOS device, then open the Alexa app. From there, select your Wi-Fi network and enter its password to finish the job.

Read more: CNET offers advice about internet providers, Wi-Fi, routers and more. You can find everything home internet-related here.

2. Connect IFTTT with Alexa

The next step is to get your Amazon Echo synced up with IFTTT. To do so, head over to the IFTTT Alexa channel page and click 'Connect'. Alternatively search for Alexa in the IFTTT app. It will prompt you to sign in to IFTTT (if you need to create an account, doing so is free). Then enter your Amazon login info to authorize the integration. Now, Alexa and IFTTT are connected.

If you'd rather do all of this on your phone or tablet, you can do so by downloading the free IFTTT app for Android and iOS devices.

3. Create your own Applet

On the IFTTT website, there are Applets already pre-made that you just simply have to turn on or off. If you want to tweet your Instagram posts as native photos on Twitter or automatically add songs from Youtube videos you like to a Spotify playlist, then IFTTT has you covered. There are tons of pre-made Applets that control a variety of services and actions, and you can use the search bar at the top of the app to find specific Applets.

Here's some of my favorites:

Simply click the Applets you want to activate and then hit "Connect."

But if the Applets available don't suit your fancy, you can create your own in a few easy steps. Now, it's time to start crafting.

Click "My Applets" and then select the add (+) button. IFTTT's recipe-creation tool is pretty straightforward -- you need to first choose a trigger (the "if this" part) and then an action (the "then that" part). For our purposes, Amazon Echo is going to be the trigger. Whenever we give Alexa a specific command, we want it to trigger a specific action.

Click the big blue "this" to get started. IFTTT will display a list of all of its channels -- click on or type in the search box "Amazon Alexa" (you've already activated it, so it should be good to go). Once you've done so, you'll see a list of triggers. You get a lot of options with Alexa, but the one we want is "Say a Specific Phrase." Select it, and IFTTT will ask you what you want that phrase to be.

A couple of quick caveats at this point. You'll still need to say "Alexa" in order to wake your Echo up, and once it's listening for a command, you'll need to say "trigger" in order to tell it to listen for a custom IFTTT phrase. Therefore, every IFTTT command will start with "Alexa trigger," and then finish with your custom phrase. The "Alexa trigger" part is already assumed, so don't include it with whatever phrase you type in -- if you do, you'll have to say it twice.

Your custom phrase should be written in lowercase letters only, and you should also avoid any punctuation marks. For now, let's keep it simple and go with "my recipe" and then finish by clicking on "Create Trigger." We're halfway done -- our command will fire every time we say "Alexa, trigger my recipe."

For the purposes of this setup, we selected our Echo device, but IFTTT will allow you to create triggers for , Blink security cameras, Dropbox, email and much more.

Now we just need to figure out the "then that" part.

4. Choose your action

At this point, you'll need to decide what it is that you actually want Alexa to do. You'll find plenty of inspiration by browsing through IFTTT's growing list of channels, which includes social media services, Web tools, and galore.

For this example, I'm going to use my trigger to perform an action on my Nest Learning Thermostat . The Nest channel gives me a couple of options: I can have Alexa set the heat to a specific temperature, or I can adjust the range between automated heat and air conditioning. I can also trigger the HVAC fans to circulate for 15 minutes -- which, come to think of it, might come in handy the next time I try searing steak in a cast iron pan and end up filling my house with smoke as a result ( damn you, Alton Brown!).

So sure, let's go with that. When I say "Alexa, trigger my recipe," I want the fans to kick on to help clear the smoke out of my kitchen. All I need to do is select the "Turn on fans for 15 minutes" action, then specify which Nest I want to control (we've got two of them set up in the CNET Smart Home, one for the upstairs and one for the downstairs).

Your options will obviously vary depending on which action channel you go with, but for all of them, programming the desired result should be as easy as navigating a couple of drop-down menus and then clicking "Create action." From there, IFTTT will offer a final summary of your Applet, giving you the option to change the title if you'd like or to receive notifications when the Applet runs -- if everything looks good, click "Finish."

The 15 coolest things you can do with your Amazon Echo

5. Keep experimenting with different commands

You've already got one custom command under your belt -- why not try a few more? You can choose from more than 700 apps, services, and devices using IFTTT, and you could even create a variety of custom commands for the same action in order to give you more flexibility. For instance, saying, "Alexa, trigger the security system on" and "Alexa, trigger the alarm to armed" could both arm your IFTTT-compatible .

You can also jump back into your existing Applet to tweak the verbiage. For instance, if I decided that my "Alexa, trigger my recipe" command was too generic, I could quickly change it to something more specific and fitting, like, "Alexa, trigger my fans because I almost just set my kitchen on fire."

Let us know what commands you're trying out in your home, as well as the ones you'd like to see us put to the test. If you'd like more advice for your Echo device, check out our guide to using your Echo to call someone and our guide to prevent Amazon from listening in and delete your Echo voice recordings .

More Alexa-centric recommendations for you

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Alexa commands don't meet your needs? Just make your own

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Your trusty does a lot for you each day: It can read the day's headlines, , , entertain your kids with fun games and set a kitchen timer. But have you ever wanted more from your ? If you're tired of the same old Alexa tricks, then you're in luck.

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Smart Car on a Budget: Amazon's Echo Auto Adds Alexa to Your Car

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If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, Rolling Stone may receive an affiliate commission.

Lately, most cars come with voice assistant compatibility, meaning you can access Google, Alexa or Siri straight from your vehicle, but what if you've got a slightly older car model? I know my first car didn't have any voice assistant features, but I was so used to driving it that I didn't want to give it up for a newer, smart car anyways. That's where a device like Amazon Echo comes in.

Buy Echo Auto (2nd Gen) $44.99

Amazon 's latest Echo Auto (2nd Gen) can easily add Alexa to your car through Bluetooth or an AUX input. With Alex now available, you can listen to music, text your family, or even control the devices in your home, all hands-free. The Echo Auto (2nd Gen) comes with a 5-mic setup, so Alexa can hear you over the radio or over the traffic outside your car window.

While the Echo Auto can do everything from stream music to adjust the thermostat, the device also offers Amazon's roadside assistance in the unfortunate event you're stuck on the side of the road with a bust tire. You also never have to worry about Alexa snooping on you - with a built-in mic off button, you'll be able to keep your private conversations private.

The Echo Auto also comes with an adhesive mount and a fast car charger, in case you need to power up one of your devices. Plus it's super easy to set up through the Alexa app, so you should be good to go within minutes.

If you need more incentive, the Echo Auto is also on sale for a limited time, down to $44.99 (originally $54.99) - shop it now and get all the smart car features you want before the price shoots back up.

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Smart Car on a Budget: Amazon's Echo Auto Adds Alexa to Your Car

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If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, Rolling Stone may receive an affiliate commission. Lately, most cars come with voice assistant compatibility, meaning you can access Google, Alexa or Siri straight from your vehicle, but what if you've got a slightly older car model?

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What To Know

This article explains how to import your contacts into Alexa to use with your Amazon Echo Show or other Echo products, either using the Alexa app or by adding them manually.

How to Add Contacts to Alexa Using the Alexa App

1. Get the Alexa app if you haven't already and open it.

Download For:

2. Tap the person-shaped icon in the upper-right corner of the screen.

If this is your first time using the app, it may ask for permission to access your contacts.

3. From your contacts list, tap the three-button menu that appears in the upper-right corner.

4. If it's not enabled, tap the blue toggle button to turn on Import Contacts.

5. Now you can tell Alexa to call or message any of these contacts, or "drop in" on those who also have Alexa accounts.

You can block contacts from contacting you through your Echo device(s) and the Alexa app. To do so, select Conversations > Contacts > [ three-dot icon]> Block Contacts. Select Unblock next to the person you want to block.

Updating Your Alexa Contacts

When you enable Import Contacts, Alexa automatically updates whenever a new name or number is added to your smart device. This happens almost instantly. There's no need to update your contact list within Alexa manually. This also makes it easy to add all your contacts at once after you purchase a new Alexa device.

How to Edit Your Alexa Contact List

Alexa imports information from your smart device's contact list. The imported contacts can then be edited directly within Alexa using the app.

Tap the contact you wish to edit, then select Edit.

How to Add an Individual Contact to Alexa

Maybe you don't need to import an entire list of contacts to Alexa. Or, perhaps you want to add a new person to your list. Either way, you can create individual entries easily within the Alexa app. Here's how:

Tap Add Contact, then enter the pertinent information.

How to Interact With Contacts Using Alexa

Once you add a contact, you can tap it to see how you can interact with it. Contacts who don't have an Alexa account only display the information you stored for them in your contacts app. Contacts who do have an Alexa account display messaging, calling, and drop-in icons. Select the toggle under Allow Drop In to enable these contacts to contact you directly using an Echo device.

Now you can tell Alexa to call or message any of these contacts or drop in on those who also have Alexa accounts.

Thanks for letting us know!

Other Not enough details Hard to understand

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This article explains how to import your contacts into Alexa to use with your Amazon Echo Show or other Echo products, either using the Alexa app or by adding them manually. Get the Alexa app if you haven't already and open it. Download For: Tap the person-shaped icon in the upper-right corner of the screen.

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Use the Alexa app to update your Alexa-to-Phone Contacts numbers. Open the Alexa app . Select More menu, then Settings. Select Communication. Select Manage Contacts. Select Alexa-to-Phone Contacts. Make your desired updates.

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Zoom for Home is now supported on the Echo Show 8 and 10 smart displays. Starting a meeting is as easy as saying "Alexa, join my meeting." This functionality can be used by any Zoom user and does not require any additional licensing.

This article covers:

Prerequisites for using Zoom for Echo

Supported devices:

Echo Show 8 (1st and 2nd generations)

Echo Show 10 (3rd generation)
Note: These devices must be configured with an Amazon/Alexa account created in the US (amazon.com)with US English as the Alexa language

Installed Alexa app that has been logged in to

Zoom account (optional)

Amazon Omni Fire TV series. Learn how to Note: Zoom is available on other Amazon devices, such as the Fire TV Cube (2nd generation) and set up Zoom on those Amazon devices.

How to set up Zoom for Echo Show

Setup process overview

1. Download the Alexa app on a mobile device.

2. Connect your calendar in the Alexa app. (recommended)

3. Set up your Echo Show with your Alexa account.

4. Login to Zoom on your Echo Show. (recommended)

How to download the Alexa app on a mobile device

Follow the instructions here to download and install the Alexa app on your mobile device. Once installed, sign in or create a new account.

How to connect your calendar in the Alexa app

In order to easily join meetings we recommend you connect your calendar in the Alexa app. This will allow you to ask Alexa to start your Zoom meetings by saying, "Alexa start my Zoom meeting."

Find the calendar that you would like to use for Zoom meetings. To connect your calendar in the Alexa app, follow these steps:
Note: When you link your calendar account, a copy of your calendar is stored in the cloud so you can access it using Alexa. Content from your calendar may be available to anyone using your Alexa devices.
By default, Alexa also enables any calendars that you are subscribed to in Google Calendar. Be sure to disable any calendars that you do not want to use to join meetings.

How to set up your Echo Show with your Alexa account

After you unbox your Echo Show and connect the included power adapter, follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup of your Echo Show.

How to log in to Zoom on your Echo Show

If you have a Zoom account, you should sign in to the Zoom for Home app for the best experience. In order to sign in, simply say " " and then follow the Zoom for Home setup instructions Alexa, open the Zoom app here.

How to use Zoom on Echo Show

You can join meetings on the Echo Show with three methods:

By providing the meeting ID

From your calendar linked with Alexa

From the calendar associated with your Zoom account

Joining meetings without signing in

You can ask Alexa to join a meeting by saying " and Alexa will ask you for the meeting ID and passcode. If Alexa cannot determine your meeting ID and passcode after one attempt, the Zoom for Home app will open and you can manually join your meeting from the controller. "Alexa, join my Zoom meeting
Note: Alphanumeric meeting IDs are not supported.

Joining meetings from your linked calendar through Alexa

If your calendar is linked with Alexa, you can join upcoming Zoom meetings by saying "Alexa, join my meeting." Alexa will parse the join details from your calendar and start the meeting.

Joining meetings from the calendar associated with your Zoom account

If you have signed in to the Zoom for Home app on your Echo Show 8, your upcoming meetings will be displayed on the touch screen when you open the Zoom app by saying "Alexa, open the Zoom app." You can join an upcoming meeting by touching the join button displayed on the touchscreen.

Frequently asked questions

Which devices are supported?
As of today, the Echo Show 8 (1st and 2nd generations) and Echo Show 10 (3rd generation) are supported for video meetings, although it is possible to join meetings audio only from other Echo devices.

What voice commands are supported for Zoom meetings?

To start or join Zoom meetings: "start my zoom meeting", "begin the zoom appointment", "join my zoom call", "start my zoom class", "Join my Zoom Meeting", "Join my next meeting", "Start my next meeting", "Join the meeting".

To the end/ leave the meeting: "end the zoom call", "finish the zoom meeting", "end the current call", "end meeting", "end the call", "hang up".

Voice commands that do not work: "Join my next Zoom Meeting", "Leave Meeting"

Known issues

In some cases, Echo Show is not able to parse the meeting passcode and the user will need to manually enter the passcode on the Echo Show.

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Zoom for Home is now supported on the Echo Show 8 and 10 smart displays. Starting a meeting is as easy as saying "Alexa, join my meeting." This functionality can be used by any Zoom user and does not require any additional licensing.

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Amazon's fourth-gen Echo and Echo Dot can now detect motion

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How to create motion-triggered routines on a newer Amazon Echo or Echo Dot

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How to create motion-triggered routines on a newer Amazon Echo or Echo Dot

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Wish your Amazon Echo smart speaker could automatically turn on the lights whenever someone walked into the room? Thanks to ultrasound technology, newer Echo and Echo Dot speakers can now do exactly that.

So-called "Occupancy Routines" are nothing new to camera-equipped Echo Show displays, including the third-generation Echo Show 10 and second-gen Echo Show 8 and 5 devices. But now, some Echo speakers can perform the same trick without the need of a camera.

As Amazon previously announced at its fall hardware event, the fourth-generation Echo and Echo Dot speakers (the fourth-gen Echo Dot with Clock seems to count, too) can now use ultrasound to detect whether people are nearby, which means you can set up Occupancy Routines for those two devices.

Ben Patterson/IDG

You can toggle the motion detection abilities of ultrasound-enabled Echo and Echo Dot speakers on or off.

What are Occupancy Routines? In a nutshell, they're Alexa routines that are triggered by one of two things: either the presence of people or the lack thereof. For example, you could create an Occupancy Routine that makes Alexa turn on the lights in a room when your fourth-gen Echo Dot detects people walking in, while a second routine could turn the lights off when the speaker no longer detects movement.

Amazon notes that the ultrasound emitted by Echo speakers can't be heard by humans (I can attest to that), and that ultrasound-powered motion detection takes place entirely on the device. That said, once motion is detected, Alexa will ping the cloud to trigger any motion-enabled routines.

Want to give it a try? Here's how to get started.

How to create a motion-triggered routine on a fourth-gen Echo or Echo Dot

1. First, you'll want to make sure that motion detection is enabled on your compatible Echo speaker. Open the Alexa app, tap the Devices tab, tap Echo & Alexa, tap an Echo speaker, then tap the Settings icon in the top-right corner of the screen. You'll see a Motion Detection setting under the General heading if the speaker supports the feature. Tap it, then tap the toggle to enable.

2. Next, it's time to create a routine. Tap the More tab, then tap Routines, followed by the "+" button in the top-right corner.

3. Go ahead and name the new routine, then tap When this happens > Smart Home, then tap on an ultrasound-equipped Echo or Echo Dot. (You may see other motion-detecting devices on the list too, including supported Echo displays, motion sensors, and security cameras.) Select whether the routine will be triggered when people are detected or aren't detected, then tap Next.

4. By default, your new routine will run "Anytime." If you only want the routine to be triggered on certain days or at a given time of day (e.g., after dark), tap Change, then select specific days and/or times. You can also set Alexa to "suppress" the routine to keep it from being triggered again too soon (although, as I'll discuss in a moment, ultrasound-powered Occupancy Routines have a built-in cool-down period).

5. Add the actions you want triggered when your Echo speaker does (or doesn't) detect motion-anything from turning on lights or playing music to telling a joke or reading the latest headlines.

6. All finished? Tap Save.

Now, a couple of things to keep in mind about your new ultrasound-enabled Alexa routines.

For starters (and according to Amazon), ultrasound-powered motion detection is designed to detect "major" motion (such as people walking into a room), while more subtle motions (such as waving your hand) will likely go undetected.

Also, ultrasound-triggered Occupancy Routines seem to have a fairly lengthy cool-down period-about 30 minutes or so, according to my real-world tests. I've reached out to Amazon for more details.

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Amazon's fourth-gen Echo and Echo Dot can now detect motion

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Wish your Amazon Echo smart speaker could automatically turn on the lights whenever someone walked into the room? Thanks to ultrasound technology, newer Echo and Echo Dot speakers can now do exactly that. So-called "Occupancy Routines" are nothing new to camera-equipped Echo Show displays, including the third-generation Echo Show 10 and second-gen Echo Show 8 and 5 devices.

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Access Amazon photos - Display on Alexa & Fire TV

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Access Amazon photos - Display on Alexa & Fire TV

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Amazon Photos: Amazon Photos offers unlimited, full-resolution photo storage, plus 5 GB video storage for Prime members. All other customers get 5 GB photo and video storage. Securely store, print, and share your favorite photos from the Amazon Photos app. Keep your memories close at hand on devices like Fire TV, Echo Show, and Amazon Fire tablets. Backup your photos to the cloud. Once you save your pics to Amazon Photos you can safely delete them from your device to free up space. Looking for special gifts? Create custom keepsakes such as prints and holiday cards using your favorite photos.

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Amazon Photos offers free online photo storage to Prime members, who can save and share unlimited photos on desktop, mobile, and tablet.

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Your photo memories across your Amazon devices

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Your photo memories across your Amazon devices

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Prime members get unlimited, full-resolution photo storage and 5 GB for video; custom curated slideshows; benefit sharing for up to five family members with the option to share your full library; and a refined search filter to find the people, places, and things you love at a moment's notice.

Try saying,
"Alexa, show my photos of sunsets."
"Alexa, who is in this photo?"
"Alexa, show photos taken in Sicily."

Not a Prime member? All customers get 5GB combined photo and video storage.

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Prime members get unlimited, full-resolution photo storage and 5 GB for video; custom curated slideshows; benefit sharing for up to five family members with the option to share your full library; and a refined search filter to find the people, places, and things you love at a moment's notice.

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Alexa Routines Official Guide - Best Alexa Routine Ideas | Amazon.com

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Learn how to create and set up Alexa Routines. Get Routine ideas, see Featured Routines and Trending Routines. Watch a how-to video and read FAQs on Routines.

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Amazon has hundreds of employees dedicated to designing secure products, innovating on security, finding and fixing vulnerabilities in Amazon service and devices, including Alexa and Echo. From setting and validating the hardware requirements on our devices to performing application security reviews and conducting rigorous security testing and ongoing software verification in Alexa services-let's take a closer look at the layers of security that are at work behind the scenes to help keep your Alexa experience safe.

Software authenticity verification

Echo devices verify the authenticity of Amazon software updates before installation to make sure they come from Amazon and are intact. Furthermore, all Echo devices released since 2017 have secure boot. Secure boot verifies the authenticity of the device's firmware at boot. This verification happens when you turn on or restart your device.

Application security reviews

During development, a new product goes through a security review of the architecture and design decisions for new and changed features. Subsequently, we perform threat modelling, automated and manual code reviews, and security testing iteratively. In conjunction with individual reviews, we continuously research and develop new and improved techniques to raise the security of our operating systems, compilers, and support libraries as a whole. We also rely on machine learning to keep our devices secure.

Automated security scanning

Amazon performs automated security scanning to evaluate software for vulnerabilities. We rely on our own in-house developed security tools as well as ones developed by third parties. This technology runs on an ongoing basis which allows our internal security teams to quickly identify vulnerabilities and roll out software updates. We continue to improve our automation which enables us to scale coverage for our devices and services.

Vulnerability detection testing

We hire talent in the security space to conduct ongoing security testing of Alexa services and Echo devices. Because our security teams work across all Amazon devices, they can see and address larger security patterns and deploy solutions at scale, sooner and faster. On top of that, we partner with best-in-class third-party security penetration testing firms to help make sure we're as thorough as possible.

Support from the security community

Alexa and Echo devices are further protected through the Amazon Vulnerability Research Program (VRP), a bug bounty program which encourages security researchers and customers to discover and report potential security issues found within Amazon products or services. We incentivize worldwide participation through financial compensation, and qualified researchers who regularly submit high quality findings can be added to the Amazon Private Program. This "all hands on deck" approach helps us locate and solve for vulnerabilities as early as possible.

Automatic security updates

Echo smart speakers, subwoofers, and switches receive guaranteed software security updates until at least four years after the device is last available for purchase as a new unit on Amazon.com. After that time, we strive to provide software security updates for as long as we can (subject to technical and other limitations). Learn more about software security update periods for Echo devices. If you own an Echo device, you can also visit Manage Your Content and Devices for update periods specific to your device.

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Amazon has hundreds of employees dedicated to designing secure products, innovating on security, finding and fixing vulnerabilities in Amazon service and devices, including Alexa and Echo.

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Skills expand and personalize your Alexa experience. Find the best Alexa Skills for games, audio, health, kids, fun, education, and more. We've curated the top Alexa Skills for the month.

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Alexa Drop In, Calling, Intercom and Announcements | Amazon.com

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Q. Can Alexa call 911?
A. No, Alexa cannot place calls to 911.

Q. What accessibility features are available with Alexa Communications?
A. Alexa has accessibility options to keep everyone connected. With Alexa Captioning, you can see captions for Alexa's responses on supported Alexa-enabled devices. With Call Captioning, Alexa can display text of what the other party is saying in near real-time during one-on-one Alexa video and audio calls and Drop In calls. Real Time Textallows you to type text that displays on the screen for both parties. Tap to Alexa lets you interact with Alexa with an on-screen keyboard or tiles.

Q. What is Drop In?
A. Drop In is an optional feature that lets you connect instantly to supported Alexa-enabled devices, like an intercom. Visit this page to learn more about Drop In.

Q. How do you set up Drop In?
A. To drop in on your household devices, first ask Alexa to drop in and she will request your permission to enable the feature. Once enabled, members of your household account will be able to drop in on household devices. To drop in on a contact with a different Amazon account, your contact must first grant you Drop In permissions using the Alexa app. You cannot control which of your contact's Alexa-enabled devices you drop in on.

Q. How do I avoid audio feedback?
A. For best results while using Drop In, enable Drop In on only one device per room.

Q. How do I link Alexa with my mobile number?
A. AT&T and Verizon customers on eligible rate plans can make and receive hands-free calls on supported Alexa-enabled devices. Open the Alexa app to get started. Tap More and select Settings, then Communication. Tap on AT&T or Verizon and follow the instructions to link your account. Learn more about linking your AT&T or Verizon mobile number.

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Alexa Drop In, Calling, Intercom and Announcements | Amazon.com

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Q. Can Alexa call 911? A. No, Alexa cannot place calls to 911. Q. What accessibility features are available with Alexa Communications? A. Alexa has accessibility options to keep everyone connected. With Alexa Captioning , you can see captions for Alexa's responses on supported Alexa-enabled devices.

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Q. Alexa still isn't providing personalized responses for each person of my family. What do I do?
A. First, make sure all Alexa Profiles are complete with a voice ID or visual ID. A voice ID is how your device recognizes the person speaking, so Alexa can deliver a response unique to them. Complete a voice ID by saying, "Alexa, learn my voice."

Q. How do I find my Alexa Profile?
A. You can reference your profile in the Alexa app by tapping more, navigating to settings, and clicking Your Profile & Family. You can also ask if Alexa recognizes you by saying "Alexa, who am I?"

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Q. Alexa still isn't providing personalized responses for each person of my family. What do I do?A. First, make sure all Alexa Profiles are complete with a voice ID or visual ID. A voice ID is how your device recognizes the person speaking, so Alexa can deliver a response unique to them.

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Alexa for Kids - Learn how Alexa can help your family | Amazon.com

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Alexa for Kids - Learn how Alexa can help your family | Amazon.com

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Create a personalized Alexa experience for your kids with parental controls from Amazon Kids. Learn about getting help with homework, bedtime stories and more. Read FAQs, watch a video, and see example voice commands.

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Ask Alexa to place orders for products from your order history or your Amazon Cart.

1. Say, "Order [item]."
Alexa adds a selection for that item to your Cart. Follow the prompts to place your order. Some items, require completion using the Amazon app or on the Amazon website.

2. Or, say, "Checkout my Amazon cart," and follow the prompts to check out your order.

If you no longer want the order, say "Cancel my order."

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Amazon Echo

Amazon Echo Dot

Amazon Echo Spot

Amazon Echo Show

Amazon Tap

Amazon Fire TV Cube

Facebook Portal / Portal+

All Sonos players

1. Download and open the Alexa app.

2. Tap the menu in the top-left.

3. Tap Settings, then Music & Podcasts.

4. Select Spotify, then Link account to Alexa.

5. Log in to your Spotify account.

Make it so you don't have to say "on Spotify" at the end of your voice commands:

1. In the Alexa app, tap the menu in the top-left.

2. Tap Settings, then Music & Podcasts.

3. Tap Choose default music services.

4. Select Spotify and tap DONE.

Note: You still need to say "on Spotify" at the end of commands to play podcasts.

Now just ask Alexa to play something, e.g. "Alexa, play Discover Weekly".

For more information and voice commands you can use, check out the Amazon help site.

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Amazon Echo Amazon Echo Dot Amazon Echo Spot Amazon Echo Show Amazon Tap Amazon Fire TV Cube Facebook Portal / Portal+ All Sonos players Download and open the Alexa app. Tap the menu in the top-left. Tap Settings, then Music & Podcasts. Select Spotify, then Link account to Alexa.

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How to turn your Amazon Fire tablet into a smart home control hub

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How to turn your Amazon Fire tablet into a smart home control hub

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How to turn your Amazon Fire tablet into a smart home control hub

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Links on Android Authority may earn us a commission. Learn more.

You don't have to talk to Alexa or launch an app.

You've come to the right place if you're wondering how this is done. Today we'll show you how to turn your Amazon Fire tablet into a smart home control hub. This will make it simple to turn lights on/off, view security camera footage, control thermostats, and more.

Requirements

Turning Amazon Fire tablets into smart home control hubs is simple when everything is set up correctly. Devices may not operate correctly otherwise.

This feature rolled out to some 2018 devices. Newer Amazon tablets support it. Make sure your specific tablet supports the feature.

The smart home devices need to be compatible with the Device Dashboard and Amazon Alexa. These include smart lights, plugs, switches, thermostats, and cameras.

Smart home devices need to be connected to your Alexa account and listed in the Alexa app.

Connect the Amazon Fire tablet to the same account as the Amazon Alexa app.

Your Fire tablet, Alexa app, and smart home devices should be connected to the same Wi-Fi network.

Upgrade your Fire tablet, Alexa app, and smart home devices to the latest software available.

Make sure your smart home device is operating. Dead batteries, network issues, unplugged cables, and powered off modes will create issues.

Some devices connect to Alexa through a skill. Make sure you set it up first.

More: The best smart home gadgets currently available

How to turn your Amazon Fire tablet into a smart home control hub

Turn your Amazon Fire tablet on and tap on the Device Dashboard button. It's located in the bottom of the screen, to the left of the navigation buttons. Tile view of all smart devices will become visible. There will be buttons to operate them on the bottom of each tile. You can tap on the Edit option to pin your favorite tiles to the top. If you have compatible devices, you'll see buttons for turning all lights or switches on or off. Additionally, there's a shortcut for managing devices within the Alexa app. Other shortcuts include your categories or routines.

Here's a step-by-step guide for those who need a more clear view of the instructions.

1. Make sure your Amazon Fire tablet, Alexa app, and smart home devices meet all requirements listed in the previous section.

2. Turn on and unlock the Amazon Fire tablet.

3. Tap on the Device Dashboard button located in the bottom-left corner of the screen (to the left of the navigation buttons).

4. Device Dashboard includes: Options to turn all plugs/lights on or off, tiles for controlling each smart home device, category views, and routine shortcuts.

5. Next to Pinned & Recent Devices, tap on Edit to pin your favorite tiles to the top.

6. Tap on Manage Devices in Alexa App to dig deeper into setting up your smart devices.

Fire OS 7 and higher Amazon Fire tablets can access the Device Dashboard straight from the lock screen. Press the power button, tap on the Device Dashboard button in the bottom-left corner, and swipe away from it.

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How to turn your Amazon Fire tablet into a smart home control hub

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Links on Android Authority may earn us a commission. Learn more. You don't have to talk to Alexa or launch an app. You've come to the right place if you're wondering how this is done. Today we'll show you how to turn your Amazon Fire tablet into a smart home control hub.

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Get in contact with our alexa experts by reaching out them at Alexa Customer Service 1-888-777-7058 Phone Number USA/CA if you face alexa issues with your amazon echo, echo dot,echo plus,echo studio,echo show or amazon tap device. Sometimes you may not be able to find the answer to your specific question or issues with you echo devices. In that case, you can take help from our expert`t professional team at Alexa Customer service number 1-888-777-7058 USA/CA for quick resolution. Our alexa cu ...

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Get in contact with our alexa experts by reaching out them at Alexa Customer Service 1-888-777-7058 Phone Number USA/CA if you face alexa issues with your amazon echo, echo dot,echo plus,echo studio,echo show or amazon tap device. Sometimes you may not be able to find the answer to your specific question or issues with you echo devices.

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Podcasts on Alexa can be perplexing, but mastering these tips might make you a pro

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Podcasts on Alexa can be perplexing, but mastering these tips might make you a pro

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Podcasts on Alexa can be perplexing, but mastering these tips might make you a pro

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For an audio format invented before mobile internet was even really a thing yet, podcasts have kept up with the times remarkably well. Gone are the days of hard-wiring a click-wheel iPod to your laptop just to swap in a new playlist. These days, an ever-expanding catalogue of podcasts is just one click, tap or -- if you're within earshot of Alexa -- voice command away.

But unbridled access to this vastly expanded podosphere creates its own problems. Podcasts have never been quite this ubiquitous, yet with so many devices to play them from -- phones, tablets, watches, smart speakers, even glasses -- good luck keeping track of what you've already played or where you left off.

Full disclosure: I'm a professional podcast fan -- or so I've been told. And almost every podcast I listen to gets played, one way or another, through an Amazon Echo device.

"One way or another," you ask? Why so assertive?

I'll be honest -- it can get a little dicey trying to coax Alexa into playing the right podcast. It's not as seamless as, say, playing music. When you ask for a specific musical artist, album or song, most of the time Alexa nails it, even if you flub part of it (try asking for the "Scooby Brothers" and I bet Alexa will rightly cue up the Doobie Brothers).

But if you're at all sketchy about any of the podcast details -- and sometimes even when you're not -- Alexa's liable to go off the rails, and fast. I've got a fix for when that happens, but first I'm going to show how to get to your favorite shows with just voice commands. If you master these tips and Alexa still borks your requests, as a last resort I've included a foolproof workaround toward the end.

How to speak Alexa's podcast language

First, let's cover the basics (I'll get into setting your preferred podcast provider in a bit). Most podcast problems with Alexa arise because, unlike music, which has fixed titles, podcast names are all over the place. There's, of course, the name of the show itself ("the podcast"), but then some podcasts title individual episodes -- and are constantly adding more. Others merely assign numbers or dates -- there's basically no continuity or consistency. (No wonder Alexa has such a hard time.)

To call up a specific podcast, you'll want to tell Alexa at least two -- but occasionally three -- pieces of information:

The title of the show or podcast: Alexa's definitely not a mind reader, so start here.

The specific date of the episode you want to hear: if you want something other than the latest one or the one you listened to last.

The name of the host (to disambiguate): Some podcasts have similar or exactly the same names.

You'd think the title would be the easiest part, but have you ever seen how many podcasts TED puts out? Or the New Yorker or Vox? Even CNET produces a menagerie of podcast shows. Also, you might consider appending the word "podcast" to the title, as in, "Alexa, play Morbid podcast." Otherwise, you may find yourself rocking out to the 1980s Swedish metal band, rather than the popular true-crime podcast -- both called Morbid.

When trying to locate a specific episode of a podcast, the only consistently effective way to find it with Alexa is to include the date. Specific episode numbers or titles are liable to yield an error message, so you'll want to pull out your favorite podcatcher app and drill down to find the date of the episode you want (if you're binging, for example). "Alexa, play the TED Radio Hour from March 19" will cue up that specific episode. (See the next section for navigating around from this point.)

Finally, there are a number of podcasts with similar or, in some cases, exactly the same name as other shows and, in my experience, Alexa always picks the more obscure of the two when you ask for them. If you're a fan of Dax Shepherd's podcast and ask for "Armchair Expert," you might get an almost surreal sort of test episode called Introduction to Anchor belonging to a podcast titled, you guessed it, Armchair Expert. Fans of Sam Harris' Making Sense podcast may find themselves in a similar pickle, listening to a financial podcast also called Making Sense.

To direct Alexa to the correct podcasts in those instances, you'll want to tack on the host's name, e.g., "Armchair Expert with Dax Shepherd" or "Making Sense with Sam Harris."

Navigating podcasts with Alexa

Moving around within a podcast is pretty simple and intuitive. Generally, if you just say what you want to happen -- "Alexa, fast-forward three minutes," for instance -- Alexa returns the result you expected. Summon Alexa and say, "pause," then "play" or "resume" to take a break. You can even scrub to a specific point in the podcast -- say, "Alexa, go to 31 minutes, 15 seconds" and the podcast will zip right over to that point.

Navigating around a podcast's catalogue gets a little trickier. For example, when you ask to play a show you haven't listened to yet without specifying an episode, Alexa will usually play the latest episode. Some podcasts -- especially bingeable mini-series like S-Town that unfold in a specific order -- will actually begin with the first episode of that podcast, the oldest.

When moving between episodes, Alexa speaks a very precise language: "Next" always means "next most recent." That means, if you're listening to the latest episode of a podcast and you say, "play next," Alexa will respond, "You're playing the latest episode." In that instance, the command you're looking for is "play previous." That also means Alexa will stop playing episodes after the most recent, so if you want to binge most shows you'll want to start with an older episode. From there, Alexa will automatically cue up the next most recent, followed by the next, until you get to the latest episode.

Alexa still can't handle your queue

Like I mentioned, I'm a podcast fiend. I live and die (er, sleep) by my queue -- the "Up Next" playlist where I put all the episodes I want to listen to, rearrange them based on what I feel like listening to in the moment, and which I can let play for hours and hours and never have to think about (until I want to obsess about it some more). And sadly, Alexa can't handle me.

That doesn't mean I don't access podcasts directly with Alexa via the aforementioned commands. When I'm in the kitchen, I usually play Armchair Expert ("with Dax Shepherd," in case there's any confusion). At my desk, I might tune into Lore and just let it run. When my attention is only half fixed on the podcast that's playing, Alexa manages the task just fine.

But when I'm driving -- and especially when I lie down in bed at night -- I need my queue. That's when I cut Alexa out of the equation almost completely (keep reading to learn how I do it).

Move over, Alexa. I can take it from here

When my podcast demands are more than Alexa can handle, I connect my phone to an Amazon Echo device using Bluetooth. It's not my favorite way to listen to audio on an Alexa speaker -- I'll often continue to scroll Reddit or read the news on my phone when lying in bed, and if I want to watch a video, for example, the audio overtakes the current podcast while I do, which means going back to my podcast app and resuming the show that was playing after the video finishes. But it's the best solution I've come up with so far and, well, it works well enough.

If you've never connected your phone to an Alexa speaker with Bluetooth before, first do this:

1. Say, " Alexa, connect to my phone." Alexa will respond, "Searching."

2. Open Bluetooth settings on your phone and scroll to the list of devices in pairing mode.

3. Tap the Amazon Echo device (it'll have a name like " Echo Dot-X1Z").

4. When Alexa says, "Now connected to," followed by the name of your phone, you're in like Flynn.

5. To disconnect, say, " Alexa, disconnect from my phone" and wait for Alexa to say, "Now disconnected from," followed by the name of your phone.

From then on, all you'll have to say is, "Alexa, connect to my phone." Alexa will say, "Searching," then play a tone and confirm your phone's connected. If this process ever glitches (and it does, all the time), you may have to go into your phone's Bluetooth settings and find the device you want to connect to from your list of (previously) paired devices. If you have a ton of Amazon Echoes in your house, you'll have to remember which three-digit alphanumeric combination designates the specific one you want. If you forget, Alexa will remind you after a few minutes of futile searching.

Sync your podcasts across devices with these steps

I primarily use Apple Podcasts, but you might like Spotify. Amazon Music now has its own podcast service, so if you're agnostic on the subject I'd suggest checking it out. Whichever you use, if you link your Alexa account to your preferred podcast provider, you can pick up where you left off even when you switch from an Echo Dot to an iPhone and back again. (Of course, sadly, this does not affect your Up Next queue.)

Here's how to link a podcast service and which one Alexa should use as a default:

1. In the Alexa app, tap More in the lower right corner, then tap Settings about midway down the screen.

2. Scroll down to Alexa Preferences and tap Music & Podcasts.

3. If you've never linked a podcast service, beside Link New Service tap the plus sign (+).

4. Tap the service you'd like to add, then tap Enable to Use and sign into the service.

5. Back in the Music & Podcast settings menu, at the very top tap Default Services.

6. At the bottom, under Podcasts, if the service you want isn't listed, tap Change.

7. Tap the service you want to use as the default.

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Podcasts on Alexa can be perplexing, but mastering these tips might make you a pro

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For an audio format invented before mobile internet was even really a thing yet, podcasts have kept up with the times remarkably well. Gone are the days of hard-wiring a click-wheel iPod to your laptop just to swap in a new playlist.

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How to Schedule Lights with Amazon Alexa

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How to schedule your lights on and off with Alexa

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How to schedule your lights on and off with Alexa

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With Alexa Routines, you can schedule your lights to turn on and off, change brightness, and change colors. You can even create schedules for your lights to run on specific days and times. Today, we'll show you how.

Which Lights Can You Schedule with Alexa?

Not sure whether your lights will work with Alexa? You can, in fact, schedule any lights with Alexa, even if they're not smart devices. This includes strip lights and bulb lights.

If your lights aren't smart devices, you'll need to plug them into a smart plug that's connected to Alexa. You'll then need to schedule the smart plug with Alexa or an Alexa-powered device such as the Amazon Echo.

If your lights are smart devices, see whether they support Alexa. You'll know that a smart light supports Alexa if you find "Alexa compatible," "Supports Alexa," "Works with Alexa," or something similar on the packaging or product description. You can then follow the steps in the next section to schedule your lights.

Unlike with regular lights, you can often schedule your smart lights without Alexa or an Alexa-powered device. Instead, when you purchase smart lights, you can use the manufacturer's app to set up schedules. However, you'll need to check the app to confirm that scheduling is supported.

How to Schedule Lights with Alexa

To schedule your lights with Alexa, make sure that they're connected in the Alexa app on your smartphone or tablet. Make sure that you can find them by tapping "Device" at the bottom of the app, followed by "Lights."

To start scheduling, head to the Alexa app and tap the "More" tab at the bottom of the screen. Then, select "Routines."

Head to the New Routine page by tapping the plus (+) icon in the upper-right corner.

Select "Enter routine name" and type a name for your light routine. Consider using a simple name like "Strip lights routine" or "Bulb light routine." Once you're done entering a routine name, tap "Next" in the upper-right corner.

The app will lead you back to the New Routine page. From here, select "When This Happens," and then tap "Schedule."

Scheduling at a Set Time of Day

If you want to schedule your lights to turn on at a specific time, use the "At Time" option.

You can choose the days on which you want to schedule your lights under "Repeat." All the days will be selected in black by default. You can tap on a day to unselect it, which will turn it gray.

Now, select a specific time to turn your lights on by tapping "At Time."

Once you're done, tap "Next" in the upper-right corner. Then, tap "Add Action" and scroll down to select "Smart Home."

To find your lights, tap "All Devices." This will list all of your available devices. Look for the lights that you wish to schedule and tap on the name. Your lights might have various features, including:

Power: Turns your lights on or off.

Brightness: Changes the brightness of your lights.

Set color: Changes the color of your lights.

Depending on your lights, you could only have the Power feature. You'll see all the available features that your light offers in the Alexa app. To keep things simple, we'll only be showing you how to schedule your lights to turn on and off.

To schedule your lights to turn on, tap the "Power" option. Then, tap the toggle switch, ensuring that it says "On." (The switch will turn blue.) To schedule your lights to turn off, tap the toggle switch until it says "Off." (The switch will turn gray.)

Tap "Next" in the upper-right corner when you're done, which will lead you back to the New Routine page.

Now, tap the "Add Action" option again. Scroll to the bottom and select the "Wait" action. The Wait action sets delays between your actions. You need this to schedule your lights to turn on and off in a single routine.

Let's say, for example, that you set your lights to turn on at 7:00 a.m., and you want them turned off at 10:00 a.m. You can add a Wait delay of two hours and then add another action to turn your lights off.

The longest delay that you can add is four hours in a single Wait action. For longer delays, add multiple Wait actions. Once you're done creating your routine, tap "Save" in the upper-right corner.

Scheduling at Sunrise or Sunset

To schedule your lights to turn on at sunrise or sunset, use either the "Sunrise" or "Sunset" options instead of the "Set Time" option. Your sunrise and sunset times will depend on where you're located.

From here, you can follow the same steps that are listed in the above section. The only differing feature is the "Time Offset" option, which allows you to offset your lights' schedule up to one hour before or after the sun rises or sets.

That's how you schedule your lights with Alexa. Why not create schedules for all of your lights? Just remember that you'll need to get yourself some smart plugs if you plan on scheduling regular lights.

Andy Nguyen has been a professional freelance writer for over three years and has written hundreds of articles. He has loved computers and technology ever since he started gaming as a kid back in the 1990s. He's the person everyone he knows turns to for help with tech, too. Andy also runs a blog where he provides information and guides for students on becoming more productive. Andy Nguyen
Read Full Bio "

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How to Schedule Lights with Amazon Alexa

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With Alexa Routines, you can schedule your lights to turn on and off, change brightness, and change colors. You can even create schedules for your lights to run on specific days and times. Today, we'll show you how. Not sure whether your lights will work with Alexa?

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Connect your Echo Dot to your TV so that you can also use your Echo as an external speaker. You can also use Alexa voice commands to control your TV.

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Explore PawPawEdo’s magazine “Alexa”, followed by 87 people on Flipboard. See more stories about Amazon Alexa, Technology, Amazon Echo.

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How to use your Alexa as an external speaker to your PC or laptop 

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How to use your Alexa as an external speaker to your PC or laptop 

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How to connect Alexa to your Wi-Fi Wi-Fi

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How to connect Alexa to your Wi-Fi Wi-Fi

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Without a reliable Wi-Fi connection, Amazon Alexa's witty responsiveness and rapid-fire reactions to all of your favorite questions are not possible. Wi-Fi problems will force Alexa to drop that instantly recognizable long chime and a "Sorry, I'm having trouble connecting to the internet."

How to Connect Alexa to Wi-Fi

To connect Amazon Alexa to the internet for the first time, download the Amazon Alexa app from Apple's App Store for iPhone or from the Google Play Store for Android. Launch the app to get started.

Next, plug in your Echo or other Alexa-powered device to a power source and look for a pulsating orange light.

A pulsating orange light indicates that your device is in Setup Mode and looking to connect to the nearest available network. Using the app, select your home's Wi-Fi network and follow all of the onscreen prompts to bring your Alexa-powered device online.

Once your Amazon Echo or other Alexa-powered device is connected to the internet, you'll see a "Now Connected" message.

If you see a light color other than orange on your device, it isn't in Pairing mode. To force it into Pairing mode, press and hold the device's Action button for several seconds until the light on your Alexa device turns orange.

How Do I Change My Wi-Fi Settings?

Sometimes, you'll need to change your Wi-Fi details with Alexa. If you change your Wi-Fi passphrase or move to a new location with different Wi-Fi information, this will be necessary.

If Alexa is having difficulty connecting to Wi-Fi, you'll see a flashing red ring. Alexa will also say, "I am having trouble connecting to the internet. Take a look at the Help section in your Alexa app."

To fix this, if you've already set up your Echo, Echo Dot, Echo Show, or other compatible Alexa device, you can change the Wi-Fi settings from within the app. In the Amazon Alexa app on your phone, tap on the "Devices" icon in the lower right-hand navigation and select "Echo & Alexa."

From there, choose your Alexa-powered device. The app will take you to that device's settings. In the Wireless section, tap "Change" next to "Wi-Fi Network "and follow all of the onscreen prompts to change your Wi-Fi network or password.

If you do not see your network listed, scroll down and tap "Add a Network."

If your Alexa-powered device is not discovered, make sure that you're within range (within 10 feet), check that it's plugged in correctly, and put it back into Setup Mode by pressing and holding the action button until the light on your device turns orange before hitting "Continue."

You might need to press and hold the Action button again until the light on your Alexa device turns orange.

What Affects Alexa Wi-Fi Connectivity?

The strength of your Wi-Fi connection will affect Alexa's speed and latency. Here are some ways to improve Wi-Fi signal strength.

Reboot Alexa

A hard reset could establish a strong connection between Alexa and your home or work Wi-Fi network. Simply unplug your Alexa device's power adapter for no less than three seconds and perform a power-cycle reset of your router by unplugging it for roughly 15 seconds before plugging it back in. Once your modem and router are back online, ask Alexa to play a song or answer a series of questions to check for intermittent signal loss or a connectivity error.

If your device is unable to connect, make sure that you've entered the correct Wi-Fi password.

Relocate Your Alexa-powered Device

Sometimes, your Alexa-powered device might be too far away from your modem and router, especially in a larger, multi-story home. Try moving your Alexa device closer, preferably in a central location and within 30 feet of your wireless router. The more central the location, the stronger the router signal. Additionally, avoid placing Alexa devices close to walls, microwaves, baby monitors, and other electrical devices that could cause interference.

Connect to Your Router's 5GHz Wi-Fi Network

All Alexa-powered devices are compatible with 5 GHz Wi-Fi networks, which offer faster data transfer speeds and less congestion than 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi networks but can't cover as much ground.

The closer your router is to your Alexa device-and the more wireless congestion in your immediate vicinity-the more this trick will help. You do have the option to use Wi-Fi extenders or a mesh network to improve your home's Wi-Fi.

RELATED: Wi-Fi Extender vs. Mesh Network: What's the Difference?

With the troubleshooting tips and best practices above, you should be able to connect Alexa to your Wi-Fi network in no time.

Ray Prince is a freelance writer with more than four years of experience covering automobiles and technology, writing for publications such as Gadget Review, Hybrid Cars, Auto Guide, and Vehicle History. Ray Prince
Read Full Bio "

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Without a reliable Wi-Fi connection, Amazon Alexa's witty responsiveness and rapid-fire reactions to all of your favorite questions are not possible. Wi-Fi problems will force Alexa to drop that instantly recognizable long chime and a "Sorry, I'm having trouble connecting to the internet."

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Once you pair a smart plug with Alexa, you can turn any appliance on or off with your voice using an Amazon Echo or other Alexa-powered device or app-making any appliance or device a little smarter.

Which Smart Plugs Support Alexa?

When shopping for smart plugs, you'll find that most of them support Amazon Echo and other Alexa products. The easiest way to tell whether a smart plug supports Alexa is by looking at the packaging.

You should find "Alexa compatible," "Supports Alexa," "Works with Alexa," or something similar. Check the product description on the back of the packaging as well.

If you're shopping online, read the smart plug's title and description carefully to see whether it supports Alexa.

For a shortcut, you can use the find feature by pressing Ctrl+F on your computer (or Command+F on a Mac) to search for "Alexa." If there are matches, they will show up highlighted. You can also search for text in your smartphone's web browser.

You can find many popular smart plugs on Amazon, such as the Amazon Smart Plug, Gosund Smart Plug, and Kasa Smart Plug.

How to Pair a Smart Plug with Alexa

Once you have a smart plug compatible with Alexa handy, you can start the pairing process.

The smart plug needs to be plugged in somewhere that your Wi-Fi can reach. It doesn't matter where your Alexa devices and smart plug are relative to each other. They don't have to communicate directly-they communicate over Wi-Fi. Just make sure that your Wi-Fi can reach them both.

Now, open the Alexa app on your phone and tap the "Devices" tab at the bottom of the screen.

Tap the plus icon in the upper-right corner. Three options will appear. Tap "Add Device."

Tap "Plug" under All Devices.

Look for the device manufacturer or brand name of the plug that you wish to pair with Alexa. The brand names are arranged in alphabetical order, so keep scrolling down until you find yours.

Once you find your brand, follow the instructions in the Alexa app. It will guide you to download your brand's app to set up your smart plug. If you can't find your brand, read the If You Can't Find Brand Name During Setup section below.

The setup process varies depending on the brand, but it should be similar to adding a new device in the Alexa app.

You will likely need to create an account, set your smart plug to pairing mode, and connect it to your Wi-Fi. The brand app will guide you with all of this.

When you set up the smart plug, you can turn it on and off in the manufacturer's app.

Return to the Alexa app. Alexa should automatically find your plug and prompt you to set it up in the Alexa app. If Alexa didn't automatically find your plug, head to the Pair Through the Skill Store section below.

Tap "Set up device" at the bottom of the screen.

You can add your plug to a group of smart devices for more organization. Add it to a group by tapping "Choose Group." You can also choose to skip this step.

Tap "Continue" on the next screen and then "Done." The smart plug should now be set up on your Alexa account, which means that it's paired with your Alexa devices.

You can test whether the pairing worked by saying, "Alexa, turn on [plug name]" or "Alexa, turn off [plug name]."

Make sure that you're saying the correct name of your smart plug. Double-check that you named the device the same thing on both your brand and the Alexa app.

If You Can't Find Brand Name during Setup

If your smart plug's brand name wasn't listed in the Alexa app, scroll to the very bottom and tap "Other."

Tap "Discover Devices" at the bottom of the screen.

Your Alexa device will start searching for your smart plug. Once it's found, follow the instructions on the Alexa app to set up and pair your smart plug.

If Alexa couldn't find your smart plug, the app will bring you to a page with four help options.

Try discovering your device again.

You can also try plugging your smart plug closer to your router and then try again. If Alexa still can't find your plug, contact Amazon support using the "Call customer service" or "E-mail customer service" options.

Pair Through the Skill Store

If Alexa didn't automatically find your smart plug after you set it up in the manufacturer's app, you must pair it through the skill store.

In the Alexa app, tap "Next" at the bottom of the screen.

Tap "Enable to use."

Log in to your brand's account and follow the instructions on the screen to link your plug with Alexa.

How to Control a Smart Plug with Alexa

After successfully pairing your smart plug with Alexa, you can turn any appliance on or off through your Alexa devices. You can set up the smart plug to run on a schedule by creating an Alexa routine.

Plug any appliance into your smart plug and say, "Alexa, turn on [plug name]," or "Alexa, turn off [plug name]."

Note: This will only work for appliances that have a physical power switch that can be left in an "On" position. if you can plug your appliance into an outlet and it immediately turns on, it will work with a smart plug. If you always have to press a button after plugging it in, it won't.

If you're far away from your Alexa devices, you can open the Alexa app and turn the smart plug on or off from there.

Tap the Devices tab at the bottom of the screen > Plugs. Then, press the "On" or "Off" switch beside your smart plug's name.

Now you can use Alexa to turn your device on and off. Want to do that for more devices? Why not buy some more smart plugs?

RELATED: The Best Smart Plugs to Amp Up Your Dumb Devices

Andy Nguyen has been a professional freelance writer for over three years and has written hundreds of articles. He has loved computers and technology ever since he started gaming as a kid back in the 1990s. He's the person everyone he knows turns to for help with tech, too. Andy also runs a blog where he provides information and guides for students on becoming more productive. Andy Nguyen
Read Full Bio "

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Once you pair a smart plug with Alexa, you can turn any appliance on or off with your voice using an Amazon Echo or other Alexa-powered device or app-making any appliance or device a little smarter. When shopping for smart plugs, you'll find that most of them support Amazon Echo and other Alexa products.

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Everything you need to know about Alexa ￼on a PC

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Everything you need to know about Alexa ￼on a PC

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How to use Amazon Echo Show as a second monitor for your PC

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How to use Alexa as a second monitor for your PC

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How to use Alexa as a second monitor for your PC

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How to use Amazon Echo Show as a second monitor for your PC

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Amazon Echo Dot tips and tricks: 10 cool Alexa features to try!

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Amazon Echo Dot tips and tricks: 10 cool Alexa features to try!

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How To Connect Smart Home Devices to Alexa

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How to connect your smart devices to Alexa

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How to connect your smart devices to Alexa

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How To Connect Smart Home Devices to Alexa

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Best widgets for the Echo Show 15 for the connected family | Digital Trends

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Best widgets for the Echo Show 15 for the connected family

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Best widgets for the Echo Show 15 for the connected family

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One of the best features of Amazon's mighty Echo Show 15 is the capability of adding widgets to each user's home screen. Allowing for quick and easy shortcuts to some of the smart display's most immersive tools and features, widgets keep the Show 15 organized and optimized for the entire family.

While there aren't too many widgets available at this time, Amazon has opened widget development up to third-party companies, so we're bound to see more eventually. But for right now, there are a number of excellent widgets to load on your Echo Show 15, and we decided to shine a light on some of our favorites.

Smart home dashboard

From smart lights to video doorbells, the Echo Show 15 includes a customizable smart devices widget that makes controlling your smart home easier than ever. Once installed, the widget allows you to quickly monitor and control up to six of your smart home's web-connected products with simple on/off commands and other device functions displayed for each entry.

Maps with integrated traffic conditions

The handy maps widget lets users input addresses to get the best directions from one location to the next. We also love the addition of real-time traffic conditions, allowing you to make smart decisions regarding your daily commute.

Amazon package tracking

Expecting an Amazon delivery? The Amazon package tracking widget keeps tabs on all of your en-route orders, letting you know when to expect your next item and pinging your Echo Show 15 once it arrives.

Calendar and reminders - daily/monthly

There are two calendar widgets in the Echo Show 15. The first combines daily and monthly schedules, while the other is specifically a daily schedule. Both are useful tools for a family. Use the monthly calendar for an overview of the weeks ahead; the daily calendar breaks down everyone's schedule on an hour-by-hour basis.

Sticky Notes

Sticky Notes lets you pin notes and reminders to the home screen of the Echo Show 15. It can be something as simple as, "Wash the dishes when you get home from school," or, "I've already fed the cat. Don't believe her lies." Sticky Notes is perfect for those messages you want to guarantee are seen but maybe don't warrant sending a text.

To-Do List

Every family has a list of chores that need to be taken care of on a daily basis. Between mopping the floor, carrying out the trash, and cleaning the bathrooms, it seems the work of maintaining a household is never done. The To-Do List widget makes it easy to mark off when those tasks have been accomplished, as well as remind family members of unexpected chores.

Shopping List

No one wants to frantically scour the house just before darting out the door to get groceries. The Shopping List app makes it easy to add items as you discover you need them. Just say, "Alexa, add [item] to shopping list." You can see the items currently on the list at a glance and pull up the full list in your Alexa app when you're at the store. When you toss the item in your shopping cart, just mark it off.

Weather

It's self-explanatory, but everyone needs to know what the weather is like. No one wants to dress for cold weather only for it to heat up mid-day and have you shedding sweaters. The weather widget breaks down the weather in three-hour increments to give you an idea of temperature, rain chance, and more.

With only 19 widgets to choose from, your options are limited - especially when some of those widgets are duplicates of others with only minor variations. Despite the lack of options, the widget function is one of the best parts of the Echo Show 15 and one we hope to see greatly expanded and opened to third-party developers in the future.

Today's tech news, curated and condensed for your inbox

Editors' Recommendations

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Best widgets for the Echo Show 15 for the connected family | Digital Trends

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One of the best features of Amazon's mighty Echo Show 15 is the capability of adding widgets to each user's home screen. Allowing for quick and easy shortcuts to some of the smart display's most immersive tools and features, widgets keep the Show 15 organized and optimized for the entire family.

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How to Turn a PC or Tablet into an Echo Show

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How to turn a PC or tablet into a Alexa device

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How to turn a PC or tablet into a Alexa device

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Released in 2019, the Echo Show combines all of Alexa's virtual assistant capabilities with a touch screen. Now, you can transfer all of these features into select PCs and tablets using Alexa Show Mode.

What Is Alexa Show Mode?

Alexa Show Mode turns compatible PCs and tablets into a smart display. Like Echo Dot and Echo Show devices, your PC is now capable of hands-free help and is able to interpret voice commands for streaming audio playback, volume controls, video conferencing family members, setting reminders, and pulling up your Ring doorbells display to see who is standing at your front door.

One of our favorite features with Alexa Show Mode is the ability to use Amazon's " Drop-In " feature, which allows you to audibly chime in on other Alexa devices. This is a nice alternative to walking over to someone to talk to them and is especially helpful to limit interruptions when working from home.

What Devices Can You Get Alexa Show Mode on?

Alexa Show Mode is compatible with select Windows 10 devices, including the Lenovo Yoga, IdeaPad, and ThinkPad.

It's also available on select Fire tablets and software versions. For a list of all supported models, visit Amazon's Switch to Show Mode on Your Fire Tablet support page.

For a list of all Alexa built-in devices, visit Alexa Built-in PCs.

What Restrictions Does Alexa Show Mode Have?

As of June 2021, Alexa Show Mode is available on all Windows PCs in the United States, the United Kingdom, New Zealand, Italy, Japan, India, Ireland, Canada, Australia, Germany, and Australia. More and more locations are being rolled out throughout the year.

Additionally, Alexa needs a microphone to work. Some older desktop PCs exclude built-in microphones, so an external microphone is required.

At the moment, Alexa also supports most computer playback functions, including screen adjustments, volume adjustments, and voice and video calls to other Alexa devices. Lastly, Alexa Show Mode can only accept one wake word-"Alexa."

How to Activate Alexa Show Mode on a PC

To activate Alexa Show Mode on a PC, download the Alexa app for Windows 10 from the Microsoft store.

From there, get within proximity of the PC and say "Alexa, open Show Mode" or open the Alexa app on your PC and click on the "Show Mode" button. There's no need to open the app.

How to Activate Alexa Show Mode on a Fire Tablet

To activate Alexa Show Mode on a Fire Tablet, get within proximity of the tablet and say "Alexa, switch to Show Mode." Alternately, tap the top of the device's home screen, swipe down, and swipe the "Show Mode" toggle to the "On" position.

From there, treat your Fire Tablet as you would a standard Echo device by reciting a wake phrase. With every wake phrase, a blue bar will appear on the screen, which indicates that Alexa is in listening mode.

To disable Show Mode, swipe down from the top of the screen and slide the Show Mode switch to the "Off" position.

Alexa Show Mode Is Equally Useful on PCs and Tablets

Alexa Show Mode really shows its mettle on tablets, where a keyboard to input commands isn't always immediately accessible. It also works well for PC users who don't always sit in close proximity to their PC or phones to make phone calls. If you're an avid Amazon user with a compatible Lenovo Yoga, IdeaPad, ThinkPad, or Fire TV tablet, defaulting to Alexa should automatically be a breeze.

Ray Prince is a freelance writer with more than four years of experience covering automobiles and technology, writing for publications such as Gadget Review, Hybrid Cars, Auto Guide, and Vehicle History. Ray Prince
Read Full Bio "

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How to Turn a PC or Tablet into an Echo Show

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Released in 2019, the Echo Show combines all of Alexa's virtual assistant capabilities with a touch screen. Now, you can transfer all of these features into select PCs and tablets using Alexa Show Mode. Alexa Show Mode turns compatible PCs and tablets into a smart display.

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Alexa's most underrated feature: Why you should 'drop in' on Amazon Echo more often

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Alexa's most underrated feature: Why you should 'drop in' on Amazon Echo more often

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Alexa's most underrated feature: Why you should 'drop in' on Amazon Echo more often

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If you've got multiple Alexa devices spread throughout your house -- and let's be honest, who doesn't at this point? -- you need to drop in on them more often. Why, you ask? Well, for one, the alternatives -- shouting at, texting or just outright ignoring the other people in your home -- are all quite rude.

But more than that, Alexa's drop-in feature is useful in a lot of ways that maybe aren't so obvious at first.

To get there, don't think of dropping in the way you imagine voice or video calls. You're not catching up with friends or spending virtual facetime with your distant family. Dropping in with Alexa is more about connecting and sharing spaces than hopping on a call. It works best when the experience is more ambient than, say, attentive.

To show you what I mean, here are five scenarios where dropping in with Alexa does the trick. Scroll to the end to find out how to do it.

Drop in on children while also encouraging their independence

I have an elementary-age daughter who likes and, experts will tell you, needs to practice and expand her sense of independence. But I'm a dad, so I like to keep tabs on a girl who, left to herself, is liable to convert her loft bed into a terrarium or her bathroom into a doll-sized water park.

So, when my daughter's and my tasks diverge -- say, I need to fold laundry while she's cleaning her room, or I'm making dinner while she's taking a bath -- I'll drop in on either the Echo Show 8 in her bedroom or the Echo Dot in her bathroom and we'll just sort of, like, be there with each other, even though we're in separate rooms.

A lot of times neither of us say a word, but I can hear her splashing in the bath (she's old enough to handle bath time alone -- believe me, I've researched it) or I'll look up and see her putting away her L.O.L. Dolls (sometimes where they belong, sometimes not). Other times she'll ask for a snack, or something to drink, or whether I'd rather be a shark or a hippopotamus (because that's the kind of stuff she thinks about).

Either way, it's great because we get to feel close without anyone (me) breathing down anyone else's (her) neck all the time. Also -- hippopotamus.

Helping out with remote school, homework or other studies

I'll admit, I haven't done this yet myself -- my daughter's still young enough that homework requires my full attention as much as hers. But I've heard tell of other parents using drop-in to check in on their kids throughout the day while they're attending remote school (and mom or dad are working from home) or being at the ready to answer questions and give suggestions, feedback or encouragement while the young ones do their homework.

Either way, it's the same principle as above -- you can be present with your child while you both work independently, providing as much or as little help as they need, when they need it.

Group calling, home edition: Drop in on all your devices at once

For a couple of years, I lived in a household with six humans, two gerbils, a dog and a cat. Smart home tech was just beginning to take hold and Alexa hadn't quite emerged yet, but if I'd had as many Amazon Echo devices then as I do now, I'd have been using them to drop in on everyone all at once to make announcements, ready the troops or get everyone's thoughts on dinner.

The ability to drop in everywhere at once and have a sort of group-chat experience is relatively new. To do it, just say, "Alexa, drop in on all devices." Note that if you have more than one Alexa device in any given room, you may want to disable drop-in on one of them to avoid eardrum-piercing feedback.

Drop in on someone who may not be near their phone

I never venture into another room without my phone. Others, however, aren't so tethered. If you live with someone who treats their phone like an on-again-off-again companion and doesn't always respond to messages or calls when you need them to, you can drop in on a specific device (dropping in on all devices isn't supported on the mobile app) with an important question, announcement or just, you know, to say hi.

To drop in from outside, open the Alexa app on your mobile device. On the bottom menu bar, tap Communicate. At the top of the screen tap Drop In and select the device you want to drop in on. Note: Cat, dog and gerbil responses will depend upon training. Results may vary.

Send an announcement to all your devices, even from mobile

This isn't technically dropping in, but they're in the same ballpark. If you don't know where that phoneless person might be and you just want to say, "Hey, call me!" or you need to make an announcement to everyone in the house without two-way communication, you can use the announcement feature (even from mobile) to send a voice memo to all your devices.

From inside your home, just summon Alexa from the nearest Amazon Echo and say, "Announce" followed by your message. "Dinner is ready," perhaps, or "The game has started!"

From outside the home, there are two ways. Open the Alexa app and tap Make an Announcement, then either type your message then tap the blue arrow to have Alexa deliver it or tap the microphone button to record your own message, then tap the stop button when you're finished and the blue arrow to send.

How to drop in with Alexa: The nuts and bolts of it

To drop in on a specific device, you can either refer to the device by its name (mine are all named a combination of the room and the specific device, e.g. "master bedroom Echo Dot with Clock") or, even better, if you've created "rooms" in the Alexa app, you can just say, "Alexa, Drop in on the living room."

You can also drop in on friends and family who've given you permission and vice versa. To grant someone else permission to drop in on your devices, open the Alexa app and tap Communicate on the bottom menu bar, then tap the contacts icon in the upper right corner. Scroll to (or search for) the contact you want to allow access, then, under Permissions, toggle on the setting for Allow Drop In.

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Alexa's most underrated feature: Why you should 'drop in' on Amazon Echo more often

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If you've got multiple Alexa devices spread throughout your house -- and let's be honest, who doesn't at this point? -- you need to drop in on them more often. Why, you ask? Well, for one, the alternatives -- shouting at, texting or just outright ignoring the other people in your home -- are all quite rude.

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How to Send Personal Recipes to Echo Show

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How to Send Personal Recipes to Echo Show

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Alexa Tips and Hacks for the Kitchen | Amazon.com

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Alexa Tips and Hacks for the Kitchen | Amazon.com

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Alexa can help you in the kitchen to find recipes, decide what to eat, get unit conversions, add items to your grocery list, and more. Watch videos and read FAQs.

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Can Alexa play radio stations? Only if you’re using a Fire Tablet, Amazon Dot, or Amazon Echo and you have the right skills enabled.

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The best Alexa Skills and commands 2021: the ultimate in Amazon Echo tips and tricks

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The best Alexa Skills and commands 2021: the ultimate in Amazon Echo tips and tricks

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The best Alexa Skills and commands 2021: the ultimate in Amazon Echo tips and tricks

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Alexa is also helpful if you're a fan of sports. Whether you want to get the score of an ongoing match without having to turn on the TV, or just find out the date of the next feature, numerous sports broadcasters have turned to Alexa to dish out info on their sporting fixtures.

Follow your team(s) with Alexa skills

Amazon has actually built a lot of sporting functionality into Alexa right out of the box, without the need for the installation of external skills.

The functionality allows you to add certain teams from a variety of sports to your "Sports Update" which subsequently means that they'll be included if you say "Give me my Sports Update" to your Echo (or similar Alexa-enabled device).

A complete list of supported leagues is currently available on the Amazon website (opens in new tab), but the quantity is impressive, and includes teams from the MLB, NBA, NFL and FA Cup.

The easiest way to get this set up is to head into your Alexa app, and then add teams to your Sports Update in the settings menu.

Formula 1 Alexa skill

In the UK, Alexa is able to keep you abreast of the current Formula 1 season. As well as providing details on when the next race is, you can also ask for the dates of specific races.

Post-race can check up on who won as well, by either asking for the winner of the last race, or asking for the winner of any particular race in the calendar.

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The best Alexa Skills and commands 2021: the ultimate in Amazon Echo tips and tricks

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Alexa is also helpful if you're a fan of sports. Whether you want to get the score of an ongoing match without having to turn on the TV, or just find out the date of the next feature, numerous sports

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How to Keep Up With Your Favorite Sports Using Amazon Alexa

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How to Keep Up With Your Favorite Sports Using Amazon Alexa

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How to Keep Up With Your Favorite Sports Using Amazon Alexa

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Keeping on top of the latest sports results is tricky at the best of times. Sometimes, life gets in the way, and we forget. Before we know it, we've fallen behind.

Thankfully, Amazon Alexa can become your personal sports commentator, with the ability to give you the latest scores, upcoming games, and more. It can even give you the newest updates on your favorite teams with one easy phrase. No more flicking between apps or sites.

We'll cover how you can instantly start using Alexa to hear the latest sports updates.

Asking Alexa for Sports Scores

Right off the bat, Alexa can provide updates on your favorite sports teams without needing to install any skills or make any changes to your existing settings. If you want to read about the Alexa settings that could probably do with changing, check out our article on the Alexa settings you should change today.

Alexa can give you updates on a wide variety of sports and leagues. Chances are, your team is covered. For example:

Baseball leagues like MLB, MiLB, and Nippon Pro

Basketball leagues like NBA, WNBA, and Euroleague

Soccer leagues like Premier League, La Liga, and MLS

Football leagues like NFL, NCAA, and CFL

Other sports, like ice hockey, cricket, rugby, golf, and tennis, are also supported.

To ask Alexa for an update on the latest results and future fixtures, you can try these commands:

"Alexa, what were yesterday's (sports league) scores?"

"Alexa, how did (sports team) do in their last game?"

"Alexa, what's the score in the (sports team) game?"

"Alexa, when is (sports team) next playing?"

"Alexa, what (sports league) games are scheduled for this week?"

If you have a question you don't see listed here, try asking Alexa anyway. More often than not, Alexa can give you an accurate answer using its powerful AI capabilities to scour the internet.

Instead of needing to ask Alexa for specific results every time, you can create a sports update in the Alexa app (available for iOS and Android). The sports update will give you a run-down of the latest developments and any upcoming games of the teams that you enable. This is an excellent way to stay up-to-date with your favorite teams with just one phrase.

To create your sports update, follow these steps:

1. Open the Alexa app, and navigate to the More tab in the bottom-right corner.

2. Tap Settings.

3. Scroll down the list and find Sport. Tap to open the Sports settings.

4. Here, click Add a Favorite.

5. Then, search for any teams you want updates for. For example, Liverpool FC or Phoenix Suns.

6. Once you've chosen your teams, click Save.

Now, all you need to ask is, "Alexa, what's my sports update?" to get the latest on your teams.

It's worth noting that only sports teams are available to add to your sports update. Despite the ability to ask Alexa directly for tennis or golf results, it's not possible to include players like Rafael Nadal or Rory McIlroy in your update.

If you'd like to receive Alexa notifications for match starts, scores, and headlines for your favorite teams, just tap the toggle next to the team.

Now, next time there's a notifiable event, your Echo device will make a noise to alert you. You'll also see a yellow ring on your Echo Dot or a bell-shaped icon in the corner of your Echo Show's screen. Just ask, "Alexa, what's my notification?"

Sports Skills to Try

If you're still not satisfied with Alexa's built-in sports capabilities, there is also a selection of Alexa skills to install that can go the extra mile in keeping you on top of the latest sports developments:

The ESPN skill can play ESPN radio and local ESPN radio stations.

The Golf Channel skill, which gives leaderboard updates and the latest scores.

The NBA skill can set reminders for your team's next games.

The MLB skill offers live listening to MLB games and highly-specific stats.

The MotoGP skill can give updates on the time and location of the latest MotoGP races.

If Alexa can't answer your question about one of the sports/leagues above, it's worth trying one of these skills to see if it suits your needs better.

Be a Better Sports Fan With Amazon Alexa

By now, you can see just how easy it is to stay abreast of recent sports developments with Alexa. Whether it's a quick reminder for when that crucial game is or catching up on that game you missed, it's now possible to find out with a quick question to your favorite voice-activated assistant.

You no longer need to sift through multiple news websites and apps-get straight to the facts with a sports update on the teams you care about the most with Alexa.

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How to Keep Up With Your Favorite Sports Using Amazon Alexa

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Keeping on top of the latest sports results is tricky at the best of times. Sometimes, life gets in the way, and we forget. Before we know it, we've fallen behind. Thankfully, Amazon Alexa can become your personal sports commentator, with the ability to give you the latest scores, upcoming games, and more.

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How to set up an Amazon Echo for multiple users

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How to set up an Amazon Echo for multiple users

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How to set up an Amazon Echo for multiple users

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You don't need to buy a new Echo for every member of your house. Alexa supports multiple user profiles, so it's possible to share an awesome Amazon Echo speaker among family members. Unlike Google Home, though, setting up your Echo for multiple users is not straightforward-the process is more convoluted than it should be. Follow the guide below to set up your Amazon Echo or Echo Show for multiple users.

Alexa Profiles and Household Profiles

Amazon offers two ways to share your Echo with multiple users. You can set up Alexa Profiles that allow the voice assistant to give them a more personalized experience. For example, if you set up Alexa Profiles for your wife, she can ask Alexa to call her mother. The voice assistant will recognize her voice and call your mother-in-law instead of your mother. Additionally, your wife's name will appear on the caller ID, not yours.

For flash briefings, Alexa reports the stories based on your settings and skips the news stories you have heard.

The second option is to set up Household Profiles, allowing another person to log in with their Amazon account on your Echo or Echo Show. Users can then access each other's content like music and audiobooks, manage Shared To-Do lists, and share content purchases.

In both cases, you will set up an Alexa Voice ID to help the voice assistant recognize your voice.

How to set up Alexa Profiles

If you only want family members or friends to use your Echo to listen to music, check on their messages, and listen to their flash briefing, set up Alexa Profiles for them.

For this, every person you'd like to share the smart speaker with must have an Amazon account.

1. Open the Alexa app on your phone.

2. Tap the More tab at the bottom.

3. Select Settings.

4. Tap Your Profile & Family. You should see your Amazon profile here.

5. Tap Add someone else. Profiles you have added to other Amazon services, like Prime Video, are shown here.

6. Select the existing profile or tap the Enter their name option depending on your preference.

7. Enter the new profile name and tap Next.

The new Alexa Profile will be available on your Amazon Echo or other Alexa-powered devices. You can tap a profile to give it a nickname and your relationship with that person. This helps Alexa deliver a better calling and messaging experience.

The other person you added to Alexa Profiles must now use the Alexa app on their phone to set up their Voice ID. However, they will have to sign in to the app using the same Amazon ID that was used for setting up the Echo speaker or smart display.

Alternatively, you can sign out of the Alexa app on your phone, sign back again and then follow the steps below.

1. Open the Alexa app.

2. Sign in with the Amazon account linked to the Echo speaker or smart display. A list of all the available Alexa Profiles should show up.

3. Select your name from the list. You will be prompted to set up your Voice ID.

4. Tap Agree and Continue.

5. Grant the app access to the relevant permissions.

6. Follow the on-screen instructions to teach Alexa your voice.

If you don't get the prompt to set up Voice ID, navigate to the More tab in the Alexa app, select Settings > Your Profile & Family, and tap your name.

How to set up Household Profiles

Household Profiles allow you to share your Echo with another person who can link their Amazon account with the smart speaker or display. Both users can then share their content using Family Library, including media files stored on Amazon Photos, Prime benefits, audiobooks, eBooks, and more. Additionally, the other person you add can also use the credit card linked to your Amazon account for purchases.

If you share an Echo Show, both adults can see their photos, notifications, and reminders on the smart display. There are a few reasons you should buy an Echo Show. However, if you don't have the budget, you can always share it with your friend or family member and split the cost. Or wait until Prime Day, as Amazon products are heavily discounted then.

You can add one other adult and four children or teenagers to Household Profiles.

1. Open the Alexa app on your phone.

2. Tap the More tab at the bottom.

3. Select Settings and choose Household Profile. An overview of Amazon Household displays.

4. Tap Start.

5. Invite a family member to share your Echo. They will need to accept the invitation to join your household.

Alternatively, you can go to the Amazon Household website on your PC and add an adult, teen, or child to share your Prime account and Echo. You can add teens to your household using the same steps. For children aged 12 or lower, you must create their profiles manually.

After you set up Household Profiles, you can switch between accounts by saying, "Alexa, switch accounts." To find out which account Alexa is currently using, say, "Alexa, which account is this?"

Since other members in the household can use the credit card linked to your Amazon account for purchases, consider disabling voice purchasing on Amazon Alexa. Alternatively, set up a confirmation code for authenticating purchases.

If you don't want the hassle of sharing your Echo with your friend or family, consider buying a new one. Get yourself one of the best Echo smart displays, which you can use in the kitchen or living room for video calls, catching up on the news and weather, and more.

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How to set up an Amazon Echo for multiple users

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You don't need to buy a new Echo for every member of your house. Alexa supports multiple user profiles, so it's possible to share an awesome Amazon Echo speaker among family members. Unlike Google Home, though, setting up your Echo for multiple users is not straightforward-the process is more convoluted than it should be.

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How to use your Amazon Echo Show as a home security camera

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How to use your Amazon Echo Show as a home security camera

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How to use your Amazon Echo Show as a home security camera

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Did you know that you can use your Amazon Echo Show as a home security camera? It's true! While the camera function was designed to be used for video calls, it also doubles up pretty darn well as a security camera, allowing you to keep an eye on your property when you're out and about.

The best home security cameras are a great way to see exactly what's going on in and around your home, but let's face it, they can be pricey and most of us will require several of them dotted around our home to ensure every square inch is captured.

Thankfully, if you have an Amazon Echo Show smart display in your home you can access its built-in camera and turn it into your very own security system. Granted, it doesn't record video and you can't mount it to the wall like a traditional home security camera, but it's still super useful for checking in on your home, pets and family members when you're away. Plus, our guide to the best cheap Amazon Echo deals means you can pick up one of these little beauties for a bargain price.

It is, however, worth noting that when you use your Amazon Echo Show as a home security camera, it will display a message that the camera is live and someone is watching remotely, so if you're wanting to discretely check in on your kids for example, this wouldn't be the best choice.

Here's everything you need to know to use your Amazon Echo Show as a home security camera. And if you want to build on your smart home, check out our guide to the best video doorbells.

(Image credit: Amazon)

How to use Home Monitoring on an Echo Show

To use your Amazon Echo Show as a home security camera, you'll need to enable the Home Monitoring feature on your Echo Show. To do this;

1. Swipe down from the top of the screen and select Settings. Toggle to Camera.

2. Use the slider next to Home Monitoring to turn the function on

How to use a smartphone or tablet to view a live feed from the Echo Show

If you'd like to use a smartphone or tablet to view the live feed simply;

1. Open the Alexa app. Select Cameras from the top of the screen

2. Select Echo Show from the displayed list and the live feed will begin

3. Tap the on-screen icons to activate the microphone and speaker

4. Pinch the image to zoom in or out of the video

5. Press Stop on the left-hand side of an alert to stop the live feed

To use another Echo Show or Echo Spot, or an Amazon Fire TV Stick device connected to a TV, just say "Alexa, show me the..." followed by the name of the device whose camera feed you wish to view. It will be displayed on the Echo's screen or your TV. Again, you can pinch to zoom, and you'll need to activate the microphone if you want to converse with someone (although this isn't available when using a Fire TV).

What does the Echo Show home monitoring feature do?

Which Echo Show devices can use Home Monitoring?

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How to use your Amazon Echo Show as a home security camera

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Did you know that you can use your Amazon Echo Show as a home security camera? It's true! While the camera function was designed to be used for video calls, it also doubles up pretty darn well as a security camera, allowing you to keep an eye on your property when you're out and about.

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How to Use Amazon Alexa to Make Your Commute Easier

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Getting to work in the morning can be a stressful activity, especially if you live in a busy city. But your favorite voice assistant can make things a little easier by telling you the quickest route without needing to look at your phone.

We'll show you just how Alexa can make your commute a little smoother.

If you're commuting to work, chances are you don't want to add critical minutes to your journey by looking up the latest traffic news. Instead, by using Alexa, you can hear a personalized traffic report while you prepare for the day ahead.

After setting your home and work address in the Alexa app, all you need to do is ask, "Alexa, how's the traffic?" or "Alexa, what's my commute like?" to hear any delays you're likely to encounter on your journey. To set your home and work address, just open the Alexa app (available for iOS and Android) and navigate to the More tab, then Settings. Scroll down and tap Commute, then enter your home and work address.

Here, you can also set whether you'd like to use Apple Maps or Google Maps as your default navigation app. Now, when you ask, "Alexa, how's my commute?" it'll give you an overview of the traffic conditions and the fastest route alongside an ETA.

One of Alexa's most powerful aspects is the ability to create Routines in the Alexa app. Creating a morning Routine is particularly useful, as you can set an alarm, turn lights on, hear the latest updates and play music without needing to lift a finger.

But you can also include traffic updates in your Routine to make your mornings even smoother. To get started with creating a routine, open the Alexa app and tap More, then Routines. Press the + symbol in the top right, and customize your trigger. You could use when an alarm is dismissed between 7 a.m. and 8 a.m., or when you say "Alexa, good morning," for example.

Tap Add action below, then include whatever you'd like Alexa to do. To add traffic updates, scroll down and select Traffic. Once you're done, press Save. Now, when your Routine is triggered, Alexa will tell you what your commute looks like without you needing to ask.

Find Out How to Get There With Public Transportation

You might've noticed that, under the Commute settings, you can set your Preferred Commute Type. If you're traveling to work via public transport, then you'll need to set this to Public Transport.

Now, instead of Alexa telling you the quickest route to drive, you'll hear what bus or train you need to get, when the next one is, and how long it's likely to take, including walking time.

Use an Echo Auto

The Echo Auto is a nifty bit of technology if you don't have a car with a voice assistant built-in. It can do practically anything a home-based Echo can do, including adding items to your to-do list, making phone calls, and turning your living room lights on-and you can do each without touching your phone.

It comes with an air vent mount and a 3.5mm audio jack, so even if your car doesn't support Bluetooth, you can still hook up the Echo Auto to your stereo system. You just need a USB port to power it.

For example, if you want to get directions, you can ask Alexa, and it'll open up the default app from your Commute on your phone. Or, if you want to hear your Flash Briefing ( here's how to create one) on the way to work, you can just say, "Alexa, play my Flash Briefing," like you would at home.

Install Commuting Skills

There is also a selection of third-party skills that you can use to make the morning (or evening) commute a little easier. Let's take a look at three of them.

If you usually commute via Uber to work or frequently face unreliable public transportation, you might want to consider the Uber skill. While you'll still need to give the driver your destination address, you can order an Uber to come and pick you up without needing your phone. You can also check how far away the driver is and cancel the ride if necessary.

If you live in New York, commuting to work via subway is usually preferable to getting a cab or driving through congested streets. With the NYC Subway Status & Arrival Times skill, you can hear detailed information on the status of your regular line or the next arrivals at a given station. It uses real-time data to gauge delays and estimated departure times from any subway station in New York.

With the Public Transit Departure Alert skill, you can take finding the best train or bus with Alexa to the next level. Instead of just finding the next train or bus, this skill also considers the time you want to get there.

So, if you open Public Transit Departure Alert and say, "I want to arrive at Venice Boulevard in Los Angeles, California by 7:30 p.m.," Alexa will return the optimal service, its location, and departure time.

Simplify Your Mornings With Alexa

Getting to work on time and avoiding traffic becomes much easier when you use Alexa to give you a hand. Unsure where to start? Try adding your work address in the Alexa app and asking Alexa how your commute is the next time you're getting ready for work.

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How to Use Amazon Alexa to Make Your Commute Easier

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Getting to work in the morning can be a stressful activity, especially if you live in a busy city. But your favorite voice assistant can make things a little easier by telling you the quickest route without needing to look at your phone. We'll show you just how Alexa can make your commute a little smoother.

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Prime members get unlimited, full-resolution photo storage and 5 GB for video; custom curated slideshows; benefit sharing for up to five family members with the option to share your full library; and a refined search filter to find the people, places, and things you love at a moment's notice.

Try saying,
"Alexa, show my photos of sunsets."
"Alexa, who is in this photo?"
"Alexa, show photos taken in Sicily."

Not a Prime member? All customers get 5GB combined photo and video storage.

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Prime members get unlimited, full-resolution photo storage and 5 GB for video; custom curated slideshows; benefit sharing for up to five family members with the option to share your full library; and a refined search filter to find the people, places, and things you love at a moment's notice.

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How to use Alexa to play radio stations | Digital Trends

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Beyond its wide range of music-streaming capabilities, did you know that your favorite Alexa speaker can also function as a tuner for local radio broadcasts? If you want to add some variety to your next listening session, or are sick of Spotify and Apple Music, Alexa sports an entire medley of awesome radio skills for you to enjoy.

You'll need to ensure you've got the most up-to-date version of the Alexa app on your smartphone, and naturally, you need an Amazon Echo smart speaker or display. If you own the latter, you'll also get some visual information about what you're listening to on-screen.

How to set up Alexa to play radio stations

The process is quite simple and easy, though depending on where you live, you may have different options for Alexa Skills that are available to play radio stations.

Step 1: Open the Alexa app on your phone. Tap the More menu button in the bottom-right corner of the app.

Step 2: Choose Skills and games, then look for Featured categories boxes along the top of the app screen.

Step 3: Next, use the search feature in the upper-right corner to search for "radio."

A list of available radio tuning apps for your area will appear on the display, including popular favorites like radio.com and MyTunerRadio, or check out our list of the best internet radio stations.

In Canada, you may see RadioPlayer Canada or similar options. Click on Enable to use. You may see Launch if you've already enabled this Skill.

How to play local radio stations

Using a few easy voice commands, you can get Alexa to fire up your favorite local stations.

Step 1: To access your radio stations, just say, "Alexa, ask MyTuner to play X92.9 Calgary," or whatever the name is of your favorite station. You can also say something like, "Alexa, ask radio.com to play NPR," and it will automatically locate the affiliate nearest to your location. Of course, if you live in Topeka and want to listen to the Washington affiliate, you can just specify that in your request and Alexa will deliver.

A word of warning that in some cases, Alexa may not quite recognize the station name and you may end up listening to a different station with a similar name, call sign, or frequency number.

Some Alexa users report that some of these services can be intermittently accurate with voice commands, which may not be surprising given the limited number of frequencies and the high number of radio stations across the globe.

Step 2: If you're unsure of what call sign or frequency your station is using, Radio-Locator.com is a great tool for figuring out what on-air credentials your favorite broadcast is using.

How to travel back in time (with Alexa-powered radio skills) and more

In addition to national, international, and local broadcasts, your Alexa-powered speaker or display is also capable of some pretty impressive radio skills that add a bunch of entertainment options to your listening experience.

Step 1: Want to hear a full day's worth of radio from 1939? Alexa's Radio Complete Day skill takes you back in time to WJSV's September 21 radio programming, including music, news, and everything else that was wedged into the date's broadcast.

To enable, you can search for the Skill in the Alexa app or ask your Alexa-enabled device to add the skill by saying, "Alexa, add Radio Complete Day skill."

Step 2: Looking for music curated by actual human beings instead of algorithms? Ask Alexa to add Radio Paradise to its assembly of skills.

Blending multiple genres, Radio Paradise delivers top music and underground gems to your ears in a randomized fashion. The idea here is the serendipity of hearing something brand-new.

After adding the skill, you can even ask Alexa to skip tracks and identify what song or artist is currently playing.

Step 3: Sometimes there's nothing better for a case of the blues than a show-stopping musical. For your next rain-spattered Wednesday, ask Alexa to add the Sounds of Broadway skill to her roster of radio abilities.

When enabled, the skill will have Alexa playing theatre hits from Broadway, off-Broadway, and London stages, and it's completely free!

Why has Alexa stopped playing radio?

One of the most common causes of an audio dropout when using an Alexa device is that the smart speaker or display is experiencing some kind of Wi-Fi issue. Fortunately, there are a number of quick fixes you can use to get around this trouble.

Step 1: For starters, if your router is being obscured by furniture or is locked away inside a cabinet, it's best to relocate it. Routers perform optimally in open-air environments where network transmissions can be broadcast without object-based interferences.

Step 2: In situations where you're running two network bands (2.4GHz and 5GHz), your 2.4GHz band may become overwhelmed by the amount of devices connected to it. Try to connect your Alexa device to the 5GHz band to see if the issue goes away.

How to set music and radio alarms with Alexa

Want to wake up to Metallica's Enter Sandman or your favorite local station? Alexa has got you covered. In addition to quick streams from your favorite music platforms and radio skills, you can combine these music add-ons with Alexa's alarm function to start your day off the right way.

Step 1: With dedicated music streaming platforms like Spotify and Apple Music, you can ask Alexa to wake you to a specific artist, album, song, or genre.

To do so, say, "Alexa, wake me up to Metallica at 7:00 a.m.," or, "Alexa, wake me up to metal at 10:00 a.m." You can also specify whether you want this alarm to wake you every Tuesday or every single morning by clarifying so in your voice command.

Step 2: You can also use Alexa to wake up to your favorite radio stations. Just say, "Alexa, wake me up to NPR at 5:00 a.m.," or "Alexa, wake me up to WGBH at 8:00 a.m.," and the voice assistant will get you up and running with the broadcasts you love the most.

There are all kinds of listening options on an Amazon Echo smart speaker or speaker with a display screen. You can choose music, news, or podcasts, or venture down the rabbit hole of relaxing audio Skills: Fall asleep to the sound of a cat purring, a clock ticking, rainforest or nature sounds, or ocean waves crashing.

These audio options can also be a great alternative if you want something playing in the background, but without a lot of voices and talking so you can focus on writing that report that's due at the end of the day. Relaxing audio or internet radio can also be useful for drowning out the guy in the next cubicle who's loud-talking on his Zoom call.

Surf the entire list of Skills and Games inside the Alexa app to see what else you can access, or just ask your Echo smart device, "Alexa, what can you do?" for an updated list of options.

Editors' Recommendations

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How to use Alexa to play radio stations | Digital Trends

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Beyond its wide range of music-streaming capabilities, did you know that your favorite Alexa speaker can also function as a tuner for local radio broadcasts? If you want to add some variety to your next listening session, or are sick of Spotify and Apple Music, Alexa sports an entire medley of awesome radio skills for you to enjoy.

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Got an Amazon Echo? Here are 15 cool things you can do with it

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Why You Can Trust CNET

Our expert, award-winning staff selects the products we cover and rigorously researches and tests our top picks. If you buy through our links, we may get a commission. Reviews ethics statement

Get a new Echo and want some ideas on what to do with it? Thinking about buying one and curious about Alexa's appeal? You, my friend, have come to the right collection of images and captions.

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Got an Amazon Echo? Here are 15 cool things you can do with it

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Why You Can Trust CNET Our expert, award-winning staff selects the products we cover and rigorously researches and tests our top picks. If you buy through our links, we may get a commission. Reviews ethics statement Get a new Echo and want some ideas on what to do with it?

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'Alexa, Call Mom': Set Up Your Amazon Device to Make Calls and Video Chats

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Set up Alexa to make calls or video chat

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Set up Alexa to make calls or video chat

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Alexa is no doubt a fun sidekick. It can host a top-tier game night, it help you relax at the end of a long day and it even has a great sense of humor. But more importantly, Alexa is super practical. One of the main perks of Alexa is that it can streamline your daily communication.

That's right -- if you have an Amazon Echo Show 10, , Echo Flex, the latest Echo Show 15 or one of the many other neat Alexa devices on the market today, you could ditch your landline and use Alexa to make calls and send messages.

Not only can you use Alexa to make Amazon Echo-to-Echo calls, but you can use your Echo device to call someone's mobile phone or landline, and use your Echo Show to make video calls. Sound complicated? It's actually simple. All you have to do is say, "Alexa, call Mom" or "Alexa, call (insert name)," and you can start your voice or video call. We'll walk you through what you need to know and how to set up Alexa for calling and video chats. (If you're on the market for a new Alexa device, check out our favorite Alexa devices, cheap Alexa devices and smart displays of the year).

Set up Echo-to-Echo calls with these 5 easy steps

1. Get an Amazon Echo device: Echo Show, Echo Dot, Echo Flex or others

It probably goes without saying, but if you want to engage in Echo-to-Echo communication, you're going to need an Echo device. At least, sort of. You can technically use the Alexa app, too, but that seems like a stretch given how many other ways there already are to use your phone as, you know, a phone.

Here are the devices that offer Echo-to-Echo calls:

2. Download the Alexa app and make sure it's up to date

This one's a biggie since the Alexa app is basically going to act as your call center. You'll need to make sure you've updated to the most recent version, which features a new design and, most importantly, support for the voice chat feature.

To do so, just head to the App Store on iOS devices or the Google Play Store on Android devices and make sure that you've downloaded and installed the most recent version of the app.

3. Set up the Alexa app to prepare for Echo-to-Echo calls

Once your app is up to date, it'll walk you through the messaging setup process automatically upon first launch. You'll just need to follow a few quick instructions, including confirming your name and phone number as well as enabling access to your contacts list.

4. Make sure your contacts are correct in the Alexa app

The Echo messaging feature uses your contacts to match a phone number to whatever name you're telling Alexa to get in touch with. It then uses that number to identify the Alexa user you're trying to reach -- which is why you need to tell Amazon your phone number during setup.

That's all well and good, but it won't work if your contacts aren't up to date. For instance, if you want to send a message to your mom's Echo Dot, you'll need to have an entry for "Mom" in your phone's contacts, complete with the same phone number that she associated with her Alexa account. And hey, speaking of which...

5. Make sure the person you're calling is on board

This obviously only works if both of you follow those first four steps, so you might need to call mom and walk her through the process (or at least send this article her way).

Now for the sticking points -- or at least the things you should be aware of:

When someone calls you, all of your Echo devices will ring. This includes any phones or tablets that have the Alexa app installed, since you can use those to take calls or listen to messages, too.

Your Echo will glow green when you have a new message. To hear it, just tell Alexa to play your messages.

Amazon will transcribe your messages in the Alexa app. The new messaging section of the Alexa app is a little like a voicemail in-box that lists your recent messages and conversations. For the messages, it'll even include transcribed speech-to-text readouts of what was said -- convenient when you aren't able to listen to a message just then. Just be warned that the transcription accuracy is only so-so -- you might need to decipher a confused phrase or two.

How to use your Amazon Echo to call someone's mobile phone or landline

Echo-to-phone voice calls are possible on all Echo devices and most mobile and landline numbers in the , UK, Canada and Mexico. Like Echo-to-Echo calls, connecting an Echo device and a phone is possible through simple voice commands.

Just say "Alexa, call (name of contact)" to call someone from your phone's contact list. You can also specify which number to call if there are multiple numbers -- say a work and a mobile number -- under one contact. Simply say, "Alexa, call (name of contact) mobile" or "Alexa, call (name of contact) work."

If you're wanting to call a number that's not saved in your contact list, say "Alexa, call (phone number)."

While Echo-to-phone calling is convenient and easy, it's not limitless. Emergency services numbers (such as 911), premium-rate numbers or toll numbers (such as 1-900 numbers) and most international numbers except for the US, UK, Canada and Mexico cannot be called through Echo devices.

How to video call using the Echo Show

Whether you have the original Echo Show 5, the , the third-gen Show 10 or the newest -- and largest -- Echo Show 15, you can make video calls to your friends and family using the smart display.

Before you can make a call, however, you have to first make sure the person you want to video chat with either has the Alexa app set up on their mobile phone or also owns an Echo Show. There are two easy ways to start a video call.

Using voice commands: Say, "Alexa, video call (contact name)."

Using the display: Start by swiping the right side of the display to the left to open the Echo Show feature menu. In the top-left corner of the menu, hit Communicate > Show Contacts to open your contact list. Scroll to the contact you're trying to reach and select the contact name. Next, hit Call under the "Alexa devices" menu to begin a video call.

This is a nifty feature that still works even if your contacts only have a smartphone. Plus, the option to do a group video call is available, too. Just make sure that everyone joining enables Alexa's group call features first, then you can create a contact group through your Alexa app and say "Alexa, video call (whatever you named the contact group)" to begin chatting.

So will Echo-to-Echo or Echo-to-phone calling catch on and end up replacing our landlines? Who knows -- but if you're itching to try out calling with your Alexa devices, now you know how.

Make the most of your Alexa

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'Alexa, Call Mom': Set Up Your Amazon Device to Make Calls and Video Chats

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Alexa is no doubt a fun sidekick. It can host a top-tier game night, it help you relax at the end of a long day and it even has a great sense of humor. But more importantly, Alexa is super practical. One of the main perks of Alexa is that it can streamline your daily communication.

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You'll Want to Change These Alexa Settings ASAP

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You'll Want to Change These Alexa Settings ASAP

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You'll Want to Change These Alexa Settings ASAP

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Whether you were just gifted a new Amazon Echo device over the holidays or you've had your trusty for years, you've likely already figured out the basics of using Alexa, like how to use your Echo to call someone, how to connect Alexa to Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and more, and even how Alexa can help you in the kitchen. But there are plenty of other Alexa settings you have yet to discover.

No matter which Alexa device you have -- an Amazon Echo Dot, an Echo Dot with Clock, a compact Echo Flex, a chunky Echo Studio or a smart display such as the Echo Show 15 -- there are a ton of customizations to make Alexa behave exactly how you like. And these few small changes could make a big difference.

For example, you'll be glad you made updates to your privacy settings, including automatically deleting recordings and turning off the setting that lets Amazon employees listen to the same recordings. Read on for the six Amazon Echo settings I've found to be most useful.

1. Update your Amazon Echo privacy settings

One of the first concerns with owning an Echo speaker is privacy. Fortunately, Amazon is unwrapping more privacy settings going forward, including updates to both Ring and Echo products that make incremental advances on user privacy.

Your Echo can automatically delete your recordings. To turn that setting on in the Alexa app More menu and go to Settings > Alexa Privacy > Manage Your Alexa Data > and toggle the Automatically delete recordings switch on.

You can delete your entire voice recordings history, too. To do this, open the Alexa app and go to Settings > Alexa Privacy > Review Voice History. Next, tap the downward-facing arrow next to Displaying and then the arrow next to Filter By Date. Then you will tap All History > Delete All My Recordings.

And you can also keep Amazon employees out of your conversations and from listening to your voice recordings. In the Alexa app, go to Settings > Alexa Privacy > Manage Your Alexa Data. From here, select Choose How Long to Save Recordings > Don't Save Recordings > Confirm. Next, scroll down to Help Improve Alexa, and switch the Use of Voice Recordings to off.

For more safety tips on any of your smart home devices read our privacy guide on how to keep Amazon, Google and Apple out of your conversations.

2. Enable Brief Mode on your Amazon Echo

When you ask Alexa to do something, like play a song or turn on the lights, Alexa will say something like "OK, turning on the lights." This is to help you determine why Alexa did something if it didn't perform what you asked. However, if you don't want Alexa repeating what you just said, you can change that setting so that it only plays a short sound instead of a voice response.

To do so, open the Alexa app More menu and select Settings. Under the Alexa Preferences section, tap Voice Responses, then toggle the switch on for Brief Mode.

3. Set up your preferred music streaming service

When you set up your Amazon Echo, the music service automatically defaults to Amazon Music. However, if you're a Spotify, Apple Music or another music service subscriber, you may want to link your Echo to that streaming service instead.

Go to Settings > Music & Podcasts > and link to a service. On the same page, tap Default Services and switch to your preferred music provider. Now the Echo will play from the music streaming service of your choice when you say "Alexa, play music."

Read also: Music on Your Alexa Speaker Can Sound Better. Here's How

4. Change the wake word from Alexa

If TV commercials keep triggering your Amazon Echo when they say "Alexa," you can change the wake word to something that's less likely to wake the speaker. The other traditional options to call the voice assistant are Computer, Echo and Amazon, but there are several newer wake word additions you can use like and .

If you want to change the name, just say "Alexa, change the wake word" and make your selection. You can also open the Alexa app, go to Settings > Device Settings > select your device > tap Wake Word and make a choice. Unfortunately, you can't come up with your own name for the speaker, like Tallulah or Digital Overlord.

5. Enable voice purchasing on your Amazon Echo

You don't always have time to perform an Amazon search and buy something you're out of, like toilet paper. That's why it can be helpful to set up voice purchasing on your Amazon Echo so Alexa can order products for you.

To get started, you'll need to turn on voice ordering and 1-Click ordering. Open the Alexa app and navigate to Settings > Account Settings > Voice Purchasing and toggle Voice Purchasing on. Next, on the same screen, you should set up a voice code or profile so that only you can make purchases. Where it says Purchase Confirmation, tap Enable and select either Voice Profile (only your voice will activate purchasing) or Voice Code (a four-digit code).

6. Set up household profiles on your Amazon Echo

If you have multiple people in your house, you'll want to set up voice profiles for each member who uses the Echo speaker. This will help Alexa learn your voice and distinguish you from others in the house. To create voice profiles, go to Settings > Account Settings > Recognized Voices > Create a voice profile and follow the onscreen prompts to set it up.

You can make sure your voice profile has been correctly set up by asking "Alexa, who am I?" The voice assistant will say "I'm talking to [your name]."

If you have your favorite customizations and settings, share them in the comments. Now that you've updated these six Echo settings, here are five creative uses for your Amazon Echo device, five essential tips for your new Echo device and CNET's roundup of every Alexa command you can give right now.

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You'll Want to Change These Alexa Settings ASAP

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Whether you were just gifted a new Amazon Echo device over the holidays or you've had your trusty for years, you've likely already figured out the basics of using Alexa, like how to use your Echo to call someone, how to connect Alexa to Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and more, and even how Alexa can help you in the kitchen.

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16 incredibly useful things Alexa can do on Amazon Echo

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(Image: Shutterstock)

Back in the days when I was a product developer, there were always a few features that I was particularly proud of that customers, resellers, and reviewers tended not to notice. Usually, this was because bigger features provided a competitive advantage or garnered more attention. Even so, I always felt that some of the lesser-known carefully crafted features deserved more love.

That's why we have this article series. I'm pointing out some of the cooler features I've been looking at for each product spotlighted. I also reached out to the product designers and internal champions and asking them what features they wish were more well-known. Then, I'm sharing those features with you. I've previously covered some of Google's favorite features. Now it's time for the Amazon Echo.
Must read:
1. Song ID

This one is new and pretty cool -- as long as you're using Amazon Music. If you ask Alexa to "turn on Song ID," she'll introduce the song and artist before playing. For example, when I asked Alexa to play rock music on Amazon Music, she introduced, "Playing first, We will rock you, remastered 2011, by Queen." Next up, she said, "This is Carry on wayward son, by Kansas," before playing. So, she also has pretty good taste.

2. Routines
Also: Govee Lyra: a constellation of lights in a stunning light bar (plus an Alexa hack)
I use routines to turn off blocks of lights, like all the ceiling lights. I also use them to turn on lights when it's time to wake up, and to control the hall light, as I discussed a few weeks ago.

3. Externally triggered routines

Routines can be triggered by voice command, reaching a certain time in the day, being at a certain location, various smart home triggers (like a motion sensor), some alarms, and even the sound of breaking glass. But Alexa routines can't be triggered by, say, a sale coming into your Etsy shopping cart or when a BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit in the San Francisco Bay Area) train is delayed.

4. Integrate Android Tasker automation with Alexa

Okay, so we're going to get very geeky for a minute. One of my absolute favorite tools on Android is Tasker. It's a scripting/ programming environment that lets you customize a whole lot of how your Android device functions. You actually need three apps. The First is Tasker. Next is AutoVoice, which allows you to create custom voice commands for Google Home and Alexa through the Alexa app. And, finally, you need the Alexa app.

Once you have all three, you can use Tasker to program just about everything. Do you want the lights in your house to change to a cooler white when you rotate your phone from portrait to landscape? You can do it with this.

5. Delete everything Alexa has recorded

Alexa doesn't record active conversations within its "ear" shot. But it does record requests after hearing a wake word -- and it sometimes records comments after it thinks it heard a wake word. If you want Alexa to delete everything it's heard -- both locally and in the Amazon cloud, just say, "Alexa, delete everything I've said."

6. Send money to your kids

Sometimes, it feels like you're just a human wallet to your kids. But they need you. If they're far away and you want to send them a few bucks via PayPal (and you do this regularly), hook up the and connect it to your PayPal account. Note that this only works in the US and works based on your top contacts. But if you have all that set up, you can say, "Alexa, send $10 to Bobby." And then, "Alexa, play the Ain't got no money blues by Jason Earle." Yeah, just because.

7. Get a pizza

More great ideas

Here are some more great ideas you can choose from.

8. Announcements

Announcements is a communication feature customers can use to make one-way announcements to all of their other supported Alexa-enabled devices, including Echo, Echo Show, and Fire TV devices. Customers can say, "Alexa, announce that dinner is ready," or, "Alexa, announce that it's bedtime," and Alexa will broadcast those announcements on all of their other devices.

My wife and I use announcements all the time. We have a relatively large house, and when I'm in the workshop, or she's in her crafting space, it's a great way to "yell" from one end of the house to another.

9. Reminders

This, too, we use all the time. I often set a 3D printing reminder that will tell me to check the status of a long printing process. And, of course, we use it for preparing food, along with timers.

10. Drop In

A few years ago, there was some concern over this feature, but it seems to have blown over and is now used quite often by many households.

11. Hands-free calling

With Alexa, you can easily make hands-free voice or video calls to anyone who has a supported Alexa-enabled device or the Alexa app. You can just say, "Alexa, call [contact name]," to get connected.

12. Emergency contact

After you register for Alexa Communication and add your contacts, you can select any contact with a supported U.S. number as your household's emergency contact in the Alexa app. Alexa will attempt to call and text your emergency contact when you or someone in your house says, "Alexa, call for help."

13. Grocery Help
Also: AnyList: The one Alexa feature that makes it worth letting her spy on us all she wants (according to my wife)
Have Alexa help you stay on top of your shopping needs by add items to your list. Just say, "Alexa, add spaghetti and meatballs to my shopping list." You can check the list in the Alexa app while on the go and even share it digitally with someone who may be helping you with your grocery shopping. Alexa can also help you determine what you can use as a substitute ingredient or order the item via Amazon Fresh or Whole Foods Market in select areas.

Oh, we so use this feature. We have Alexa's lists hooked up to AnyList. We have a grocery list, a Costco list, a Harbor Freight list, a Home Depot list, and more. Just this morning, I said, "Alexa, add strawberries to Costco," since I'd just polished off the last of them and didn't want to forget to get more.

14. Multiroom Audio

Speaker groups allow you to play music, podcasts and news on multiple Echo devices at once, providing a multi-room audio experience. In the Alexa app, you can create custom speaker groups, such as "Upstairs," "Bedrooms," or "Downstairs." You can also just say, "Alexa, play music everywhere," and music or audio will play together on all the supported devices throughout your home.

15. Reading Sidekick

To get started with Reading Sidekick, a child with an Amazon Kids+ subscription can pick up a compatible physical book or eBook and say "Alexa, let's read" to any Amazon Kids-enabled Echo device. The child then tells Alexa the book's title, and Alexa asks how much do they want to read: a little, a lot, or taking turns.

Sadly, our very good little boy Pixel, isn't much of a reader. He also doesn't like keyboards (especially on laps) or mice. But he does love staring at the TV and barking like crazy if he sees a horse or another dog.

16. Celebrity Personalities

You can customize your Echo devices with three celebrity personalities -- Shaquille O'Neal, Melissa McCarthy, and Samuel L. Jackson. Just say, "Alexa, introduce me to Melissa" or "Alexa, introduce me to Shaq" to get started. You can hear the latest weather report in their voice, hear a joke, or hear a personal story.

This is a cool feature, but in my opinion, it is vastly underutilized. Our GPS got us all across the country with the dulcet tones of Snoop Dogg navigating us through unfamiliar territory. We need so many more celebrities represented here, as well as better wake words. I like Ziggy, but it really needs to be voiced by Deborah Pratt or Dean Stockwell rather than the generic female or male voice. What? I loved Quantum Leap.
You can follow my day-to-day project updates on social media. Be sure to follow me on Twitter at @DavidGewirtz, on Facebook at Facebook.com/DavidGewirtz, on Instagram at Instagram.com/DavidGewirtz, and on YouTube at YouTube.com/DavidGewirtzTV.
Wrapping up

So there you go. Ten awesome features that should help you and Alexa bond even more. Is there another product where you'd like to know what hidden or lesser-known features the vendor most wishes to spotlight? What is your favorite Alexa features? Share with us in the comments below.

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16 incredibly useful things Alexa can do on Amazon Echo

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Alexa has grown into a pervasive personal assistant. We were curious about what features the Alexa team loves that many of us haven't noticed. Here we spotlight ten slick features you may have missed that are sure to make you feel more at peace with our robot overlords.

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Use Your Alexa Device to Control Your Fire TV

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Use Your Alexa Device to Control Your Fire TV

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Use Your Alexa Device to Control Your Fire TV

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Learn how to use your compatible Alexa-enabled devices to control certain features on your Fire TV.

Just tell your Alexa device what you want to do, and Alexa completes the action directly on your Fire TV--no remote needed.

Note: Some voice commands are only available in select languages.

Compatible Devices

You can find your compatible Alexa devices when you link your Fire TV in the Alexa app.

This feature requires both the latest Fire TV device software update, as well as the latest version of the Alexa app. Not all features are supported on Echo Show devices.

Link Your Devices

You can find steps to link devices here: Link Your Fire TV and Alexa Device

Note:

You can link multiple Alexa devices to the same Fire TV.

Your paired Alexa devices and Fire TV must be registered to the same account to work together.

Control Your Fire TV

Once you've completed the linking process, you can use your Alexa-enabled devices to control the following features on your Fire TV.

To do this on your Fire TV ...

Say this to your Alexa device...

Play a movie or TV show

Alexa can play content from Prime Video and other supported apps installed on your Fire TV.

"Watch [title]."

"Play [title].

"Play [title] on [app]."

Change antenna channels

Your compatible Fire TV device can switch to television channels that are received by an antenna.

"Switch to [input type]."

"Tune to [channel number] on TV."

"Tune to [channel name] on TV."

Search for movies and TV shows

Alexa can find movies and TV shows from Prime Video and supported installed apps.

"Search for [title]."

"Find [title / genre]."

"Show me [tv shows / movies] with [actor]."

"Show me new [tv shows / movies]."

"Search for free [tv shows / movies].

Browse Fire TV

You can use Alexa to navigate through the page and select items.

"Go Home."

"Show more."

"Scroll down."

"Select [row number]."

"Go to my video library."

Browse within apps

You can use Alexa to browse within supported apps by voice.

"Select."

"Scroll [right / left / up / down]."

"Move [right / left / up / down]."

Control playback

Alexa can control playback for movies and TV shows from Prime Video. Alexa can also control playback for supported installed apps.

"Play."

"Pause."

"Stop."

"Resume."

"Rewind [timeframe]."

"Fast-forward [timeframe]."

"Go back [timeframe]."

"Jump forward [timeframe]."

"Next / Next Episode."

"Watch from beginning."

Alexa Requests

See the response on Fire TV when you make an Alexa request.

"Show me the weather."

"Show me my To Do List."

"Show me songs by [artist]."

"Show me restaurants nearby."

"Show me the [device name] camera."

"Show me the nursery camera."

Note: You may need to clarify that you'd like to stream on a Fire TV device by adding, "on Fire TV" to the end of your request.

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Use Your Alexa Device to Control Your Fire TV

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Learn how to use your compatible Alexa-enabled devices to control certain features on your Fire TV. Just tell your Alexa device what you want to do, and Alexa completes the action directly on your Fire TV--no remote needed. Note: Some voice commands are only available in select languages.

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After seeing its latest lineup of Fire tablets as well as Kindle e-readers go on sale to start the week, Amazon is now carrying over the savings to a collection of Echo smart displays. Shipping is free across the board. Headlining the sale is the Echo Show 15 for $194.99. Normally fetching $250, today's offer amounts the third-best discount yet at $55 off. This is the first chance to save since back on Cyber Monday, as well.

Delivering Amazon's largest screen-based Alexa experience yet, the Echo Show 15 is fittingly centered around a wall-mountable 15.6-inch screen. You'll find all of the usual hands-free voice control access for commanding smart home devices and the like, as well as some more novel features allowed by the screen form-factor. The new Visual ID feature will automatically adjust content based on who's in the room, and the larger display now supports a refreshed widget system for showing off family reminders, photos, and much more. Dive into our announcement coverage for a closer look. Head below for more.

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After seeing its latest lineup of Fire tablets as well as Kindle e-readers go on sale to start the week, Amazon is now carrying over the savings to a collection of Echo smart displays. Shipping is free across the board. Headlining the sale is the Echo Show 15 for $194.99 .

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Amazon introduces new Auto Mode for Alexa app - Autoblog

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Alexa’s Auto Mode turns your phone into a ‘driver-friendly’ display

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Alexa’s Auto Mode turns your phone into a ‘driver-friendly’ display

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Amazon wants to make it safer and easier to use your phone while you're in the car with the introduction of Auto Mode for the Alexa App. The feature turns your phone into a "driver-friendly" display with large touch targets and easy-to-read visuals. Of course, one shouldn't be doing anything with their smartphone in their hands while driving, so let's just assume this is for use in a stationary mount.

Auto Mode keeps things simple with four screens: Home, Navigation, Communicate and Play. The home screen includes shortcuts to pause or play your media source, navigate to home or work and make a call.

The Navigation screen lets you create shortcuts for favorite locations, or if you ask Alexa to find someplace new, Auto Mode will display a simplified results list with only the most relevant info. The Communicate screen will make it easier to place calls or send an announcement to Alexa devices, and the Play screen will give you simple controls over your music or podcasts.

Auto Mode is rolling out on Android and iOS devices in the coming weeks, and it will be available in the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, India, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy and Spain.

Amazon is also launching a new "start my commute" feature in the United States. Through Alexa-enabled devices like Echo Auto, Amazon will provide weather and traffic updates and ask if you'd like to listen to music or an audiobook, catch up on news or play a car-friendly game. When the feature arrives in the next couple of weeks, you'll be able to customize your commute in the Alexa app.

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Amazon introduces new Auto Mode for Alexa app - Autoblog

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Amazon wants to make it safer and easier to use your phone while you're in the car with the introduction of Auto Mode for the Alexa App. The feature turns your phone into a "driver-friendly" display with large touch targets and easy-to-read visuals.

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Getting rid of an old Amazon Echo? Do this first

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Getting rid of an old Amazon Echo? Do this first

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Getting rid of an old Amazon Echo? Do this first

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You've recently updated to a new Amazon Echo speaker, but you've still got your old one lying around. Of course, having multiple speakers in your house can be useful for unlocking more Alexa features. However, if you'd rather sell your older Echo device or give it to someone else, there are several steps you'll need to take.

Simply handing off your device without completely wiping your information or deregistering it from your Amazon account can pose some issues to you and the person receiving the speaker. For example, you probably don't want to share your Prime benefits or let a stranger buy things using your account and credit card details.

Here's what you need to do before your old Echo leaves your house.

Read more: New Amazon Echo? 5 essentials tips you need to know now

Deregister your Echo speaker from your Amazon account

Before you hand off your Amazon Echo to its new owner, there are some things you need to take care of. Deregistering the speaker from your account is step one. Here's how to do it.

1. Open the Amazon Echo app and tap Devices.

2. Select All Devices and choose the Echo speaker you'd like to remove. For example, it may say Living Room Echo.

3. Scroll down to where it says Registered To and tap Deregister.

4. A box will appear asking if you're sure you want to deregister the device. Select Deregister. Once you deregister, the device will be removed from your Amazon account.

Factory reset your Amazon Echo

After you've deregistered your Amazon Echo from your account, the next step is to reset it to its factory settings. Here's how to reset each type.

First-generation Amazon Echo (and Dot): Use the end of a paper clip to press and hold the reset button on the bottom of the Echo speaker. The light ring on the device will turn orange and spin, signifying that it properly reset.

Second-generation Amazon Echo (and Dot): Hold down the Microphone Off and Volume Down buttons until the light ring turns orange.

Third-generation Amazon Echo (and Dot): Push the Action button with the dot in the center. Press and hold until the light ring pulses with a spinning orange light.

Hold down the Microphone Off and Volume Down buttons until the light ring blinks orange and turns off and on.

Amazon Echo Flex: Press and hold the Action button for 20 seconds, until the light blinks orange, then turns off and on.

(Amazon Echo Show$150 at Amazon) (all three versions): Hold down both the Mute and Volume Down buttons until the screen displays the Amazon logo.

That's it! Now your old Amazon Echo speaker can be registered to a new account.

For more Amazon Echo tips, here are five surprising music hacks to try with your Amazon Echo tonight. Also, here are six Alexa settings you won't regret changing and four best uses for Amazon Echo in your living room.

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Getting rid of an old Amazon Echo? Do this first

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You've recently updated to a new Amazon Echo speaker, but you've still got your old one lying around. Of course, having multiple speakers in your house can be useful for unlocking more Alexa features. However, if you'd rather sell your older Echo device or give it to someone else, there are several steps you'll need to take.

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iPhones just got a killer Alexa widget —here's what you can do

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iPhones just got a killer Alexa widget —here's what you can do

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iPhones just got a killer Alexa widget —here’s what you can do

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A new Ask Alexa widget for iPhone makes accessing Amazon’s assistant easier

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Connect your Echo Dot to your TV so that you can also use your Echo as an external speaker. You can also use Alexa voice commands to control your TV.

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How to add Amazon's new 'Ask Alexa' widget to your iPhone's Home screen

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How to add Amazon’s new ‘Ask Alexa’ widget to your iPhone’s Home screen

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How to add Amazon’s new ‘Ask Alexa’ widget to your iPhone’s Home screen

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Ask Alexa faster than ever before.
Image: Killian Bell/Cult of Mac

Amazon just rolled out a new update for its Alexa app that adds a much-anticipated Home screen widget for iPhone and iPad. You can use it to ask Alexa anything you like faster than ever before. Here's how to set it up.

With the Alexa widget on your Home screen, you can summon Amazon's digital assistant with just one tap. It's much faster than having to open the Alexa app, wait for it to load, and then starting your request from there.

The Alexa widget does everything Alexa can do elsewhere, including answering questions, creating timers and reminders, activating skills, and controlling smart home devices. Here's how to add it to your Home screen.

How to add the Alexa widget to your Home screen

First, download the latest Alexa app update - version 2.2.430030.0 - from the App Store. Once it's installed, follow these steps:

1. On your iPhone or iPad Home screen, tap and hold any app icon, then tap Edit Home Screen.

2. Tap the + button in the top-left corner.

3. Scroll down to the list of available widgets and select Amazon Alexa.

4. Tap the Add Widget button.

The Alexa widget will now appear on your Home screen. From there, you can move it anywhere you like. First tap and hold it, then select Edit Home Screen, then drag it to wherever you want to place it.

You'll notice that, unlike some widgets, Alexa is available only in one size. It's the smallest size a widget can be on iPhone and iPad, but it still takes up four icon spaces on your Home screen, so it should be more than easy to see.

A simple tap on the widget is all you need to activate Alexa. It will immediately start listening for your request.

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How to add Amazon's new 'Ask Alexa' widget to your iPhone's Home screen

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Amazon just rolled out a new update for its Alexa app that adds a much-anticipated Home screen widget for iPhone and iPad. You can use it to ask Alexa anything you like faster than ever before. Here's how to set it up.

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How to set up and use the Alexa app on your iPhone

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How to set up and use the Alexa app on your iPhone

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How to set up and use the Alexa app on your iPhone

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The Alexa app for iPhone can be used with or without an Amazon smart speaker.

To set up, download the app and follow the on-screen prompts to teach Alexa your voice.

You can pair your iPhone with Amazon devices via Bluetooth using the Amazon Alexa app.

You probably already know that Alexa is a virtual assistant used for Amazon Echo, Echo Dot, Echo Studio, and other smart speakers. You may not know that the Alexa app also works on iPhones and can be used even if you don't have an Amazon device.

You can use the Amazon Alexa app to set up an Echo smart speaker, as well as to pair your iPhone with a smart speaker via Bluetooth.

Here's everything you need to know.

How to use the Alexa app for iPhone

1. Download the Amazon Alexa app from the Apple App Store.

2. In the pop-up menu about enabling Bluetooth, tap OK to allow Alexa to set up or connect with other devices (like your iPhone or Echo speaker).

3. Sign in to your Amazon account.

4. Tap Continue to agree to Amazon's terms and conditions.

6. Tap to select who you are from the list of options. Confirm your first and last name, then tap Continue.

8. Continue to follow the on-screen prompts to set up Alexa, which includes teaching Alexa your voice. You can skip any steps in the set-up process by tapping Skip.

How to add the Alexa widget to your iPhone home screen

iPhones running iOS 14 and later have a home screen filled with widgets, which can be found if you swipe all the way left past all your different screens containing apps.

If you know you're going to use Alexa (or any other app) often, the home screen is a good place to put it for easy access.

1. On your iPhone, swipe left until you hit the home screen filled with widgets.

2. Tap and hold your finger down on one of the widgets (it doesn't matter which one) until a pop-up menu appears. Tap Edit Home Screen.

3. Tap the plus + icon at the top-left of the screen, then tap the Amazon Alexa icon. If you can't find it easily by scrolling, tap the search bar to find it.

How to pair iPhone to Amazon devices via Alexa app

You can pair your iPhone with any of Amazon's smart speakers like the Echo, Echo Dot, and more via Bluetooth.

1. Put your Bluetooth device (Echo, Echo Dot, etc.) into pairing mode.

5. The next time you want to connect, simply enable Bluetooth on your iPhone and speaker and say "Pair Bluetooth."

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How to set up and use the Alexa app on your iPhone

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The Alexa app for iPhone can be used with or without an Amazon smart speaker. To set up, download the app and follow the on-screen prompts to teach Alexa your voice. You can pair your iPhone with Amazon devices via Bluetooth using the Amazon Alexa app.

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Amazon.com: Alexa in Amazon Shopping App

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Alexa makes your life easier, more meaningful, and more fun by letting you voice control your world. Whether you're browsing for a gift or planning your grocery list, you can just ask Alexa to help directly in the Amazon Shopping app when you're at home and on the go.

When enabled, you can use Alexa in the Amazon Shopping app to search for products ("Alexa, find coffee makers"), navigate the app ("Alexa, go to customer service"), and more - all with your voice. For example, if you open the app and say "Alexa, where's my stuff?", Alexa can respond with the status of your Amazon order and confirm your delivery date.

Here's how it works: once you enable Alexa in the Amazon Shopping app, you can tap the Alexa button in the bottom right corner or the microphone icon in the search bar at the top of your screen. Alexa can then respond to your requests whenever the app is open and in use. You can make sure that Alexa is enabled by visiting Alexa Settings in the Amazon Shopping app, located in the main menu under Settings, at any time.

You can also use Alexa in the Amazon Shopping app by saying the wake word, which by default is "Alexa." What's a wake word? Think of it as a verbal cue that makes things happen. In the classic tale from The Arabian Nights, an invisible door into a mountain can only be opened with the phrase "Open Sesame." Use the phrase, the door opens. Don't use the phrase, the door stays shut. Similarly, when you have a request for Alexa, you first need to say "Alexa." Only after the Amazon Shopping app detects the wake word, or if you tap the Alexa button or the microphone icon, is Alexa listening to your requests. Learn more about when and how Alexa listens.

Keep reading to learn more about how Amazon designs Alexa in the Amazon Shopping app with your privacy in mind.

Is Alexa automatically enabled on my mobile device?

No. By default, Alexa is disabled in the Amazon Shopping app, but you will still see the Alexa button in the bottom right corner of the app. You can enable Alexa at any time by tapping that button or by following the steps below:

How do I disable Alexa in the Amazon Shopping app?

You can disable Alexa at any time by following the steps below:

You can also turn off the wake word for Alexa in the Amazon Shopping app. If you turn off the wake word, you can still use Alexa by tapping the Alexa button in the bottom right corner of the app. To turn off the wake word, follow the steps below:

Is Alexa listening to everything I say?

No. If you have a request for Alexa while using the Amazon app, you need to either say the wake word, tap the Alexa button in the bottom right corner of the app, or tap the microphone icon in the search bar. Alexa only listens to your request after the Amazon Shopping app detects one of these actions. You'll be able to tell when Alexa is listening to your request because a blue bar will appear at the bottom of the screen.

How do I know exactly what Alexa heard?

You can review and delete your voice history at amazon.com/alexaprivacysettings at any time. Or, if you have the Alexa app, you can manage your voice history by visiting Settings > Alexa Privacy > Review Voice History. Reviewing your voice history is a simple way to see and even hear what Alexa has recorded.

Is it free to use Alexa in the Amazon Shopping app?

Yes, you can use Alexa for free in the Amazon Shopping app. You don't need to own an Echo device or Alexa-enabled device to use this feature. All you need is an Amazon account.

Can Alexa in the Amazon Shopping app do everything that Alexa on an Echo device can?

Many Alexa features are supported on the Amazon Shopping app. However, some smart device compatibility and features are not currently supported, such as Alexa calling, timers, alarms, and reminders.

Will Alexa purchase items without my knowledge?

No, Alexa in the Amazon Shopping app will not place orders without your permission.

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Amazon.com: Alexa in Amazon Shopping App

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Alexa makes your life easier, more meaningful, and more fun by letting you voice control your world. Whether you're browsing for a gift or planning your grocery list, you can just ask Alexa to help directly in the Amazon Shopping app when you're at home and on the go.

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Our mission is for Alexa to provide personalized help and delightful experiences, even in shared spaces like the family kitchen. That's why we created visual ID for Echo Show 8 (2nd Gen), Echo Show 10 (3rd Gen), and the all-new Echo Show 15. When you enroll in visual ID, you can receive personalized information from Alexa simply by being in front of your device. This means that when you're in the device camera's field of view, you can automatically receive personalized content at a glance, like calendars and reminders, news, and Notes for You.

Visual ID is a smarter way to simplify your day. Imagine it: In the morning, quickly receive your daily schedule, the latest news from your favorite sources, and a Notes for You from your partner that reads, "Have a good day at work!" And when someone else in your household, who is also enrolled in visual ID, comes close to the device, they can see information that's relevant to them, too.

You can enjoy the convenience of visual ID with the peace of mind that your privacy is protected. It's easy to set up-see below for details-and your visual ID is securely stored on your device, not in the cloud. If you have more than one compatible device, you-and any household member who wants to use visual ID-must individually enroll on each device.

If you're familiar with Alexa's voice ID feature, you may already have an idea of how visual ID works. Both features let you receive personalized experiences once you've been recognized. With voice ID, you teach Alexa your voice by repeating a series of phrases. With visual ID, you can teach Alexa to recognize you by taking a few quick photos of your face from different angles.

How to create your visual ID on an Echo device

There are three ways to create your visual ID:

1. Enroll when you set up your device. (You'll be asked on-screen if you'd like to enroll.)

2. Enroll by saying the phrase: "Alexa, learn my face."

3. Enroll via touchscreen on your device.

Amazon is committed to protecting your privacy and visual ID was designed with your privacy in mind. Here are answers to some questions you might have:

Can I enroll my child in visual ID?

Families may set-up a visual ID for each child that is linked to an Amazon Kids profile. If you enroll your child in visual ID for kids, the home screen of your device will shift to only show age-appropriate content when your child is recognized. To give customers choice and control over their Alexa experience, visual ID and voice ID are not pre-requisites of one another, so certain content is still accessible via voice. Enrolling kids in both features offers a robust kid-friendly experience when they walk in front of the device and talk to Alexa.

What happens to the images of my face that the device takes?

The images of your face that are used to create your visual ID are securely stored on your device, and are not stored in Amazon's cloud.

Is Amazon collecting and selling my facial data?

No. Amazon isn't in the business of selling your personal information. Your visual ID remains securely on your device. Amazon does not have access to your visual ID. You remain in control of whether to keep or delete your visual ID.

How can I temporarily disable visual ID?

You can either press the mic/camera off button to turn off the camera and microphones or close the camera shutter. To turn visual ID back on, simply press the mic/camera button again or open the camera shutter.

How can I delete my visual ID?

Personalized convenience

Visual IDs are a way to make your Alexa experience more personalized and convenient while maintaining the privacy protections that you expect from Amazon. For more information on visual ID, check out the Amazon Science blog post, " The science behind visual ID. "

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Our mission is for Alexa to provide personalized help and delightful experiences, even in shared spaces like the family kitchen. That's why we created visual ID for Echo Show 8 (2nd Gen), Echo Show 10 (3rd Gen), and the all-new Echo Show 15.

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Amazon.com: Alexa Privacy - Motion Detection

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Using ultrasound technology to detect motion

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Using ultrasound technology to detect motion

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You can turn off ultrasound motion detection by going into Device Settings within the Alexa app and following these simple steps:

1) Open the Alexa app
2) Open Devices
3) Select Echo & Alexa, then select the individual device you want, then click the Settings icon
4) Select Motion Detection
5) Switch the Motion Detection toggle to DISABLED

Even though the toggle is in the CAPABLE position by default, the device will not emit ultrasound waves for motion detection until a feature that uses ultrasound motion detection, such as Occupancy Routines and/or Alexa Together (formerly Care Hub), is also enabled. When the toggle is in the DISABLED position, ultrasound technology will be disabled, removing the ultrasound signal from features that use it.

If you have multiple devices, you will need to disable motion detection for each device separately.

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Amazon.com: Alexa Privacy - Motion Detection

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You can turn off ultrasound motion detection by going into Device Settings within the Alexa app and following these simple steps: 1) Open the Alexa app 2) Open Devices 3) Select Echo & Alexa, then select the individual device you want, then click the Settings icon 4) Select Motion Detection 5) Switch the Motion Detection toggle to DISABLED Even though the toggle is in the CAPABLE position by default, the device will not emit ultrasound waves for motion detection until a feature that uses ultrasound motion detection, such as Occupancy Routines and/or Alexa Together (formerly Care Hub), is also enabled.

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How to See and Delete Alexa's Recordings of You

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How to See and Delete Alexa's Recordings of You

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How to See and Delete Alexa's Recordings of You

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Worried that Alexa might be holding onto your conversations longer than it should? Amazon's making it easier to delete conversations its voice-powered digital Echo speakers might have recorded - and you can do it all with the sound of your own voice.

At the same time it announced a new series of Echo devices, Amazon also launched updates to its Alexa Privacy Hub (opens in new tab) that provides explanations on Alexa privacy controls as well as access to your settings. There are also brand new voice commands that give you immediate control over Alexa recordings.

Fears about Alexa-based smart speakers sending private conversations are common. Amazon VP of public policy Brian Huseman confirmed expectations about how long the company keeps recordings, telling senator Chris Coons (D-DE) that "We retain customers' voice recordings and transcripts until the customer chooses to delete them."

How to delete Alexa conversations with your voice

If you really want to make sure that Alexa isn't keeping a recording of what you've said, you can take advantage of a voice control that erases everything you've said that day. Say "Alexa, delete everything I said today," and anything recorded between midnight and the moment you utter that command will be erased.

You'll have to opt into the feature to be able to delete conversations by voice. In the Alexa app, go to Settings, and select Alexa Account, then Alexa Privacy, and finally Review Voice History. From there, you can toggle on the "Enable Deletion by Voice" feature.

You can also say, "Alexa, delete what I just said" to erase your last request to the voice assistant.

How to turn on auto-delete for Alexa recordings

You can arrange your Alexa history to delete automatically. In the Alexa app, go to Settings > Alexa Privacy > Manage Your Alexa Data. Under 'Manage your voice recordings,' you can use the 'Automatically delete recordings' toggle to make your recordings delete after 3 or 18 months.

How to clear your Alexa history

If you're uncomfortable with the idea of leaving around old voice recordings, there's an old-school way to clear the data on your Alexa devices, though it involves a bit of tapping. Before you start deleting, remember that you're essentially wiping the AI's specialized memory, as it's retaining this information to better serve you.

Still, here's how to clear your Alexa history and delete recordings.

Step 1: Open the Alexa app on your smartphone and tap the menu button to open the sidebar. Select Settings.

Step 2: Select Alexa Privacy.

Step 3: Select Review Voice History. Here you can enable and disable voice commands for deleting voice recordings, and see audio recordings retained by your device.

Step 4: Select a recording.

Step 5: Select Delete Selected Recordings. If you want to scrub Alexa clean of all recordings, tap Today, select All History and tap Delete All Recordings for All History.

Or you could visit Amazon's Content and Devices page (opens in new tab) to erase all of your recordings at once. From there, select Your Devices, click on the Alexa device you want to clean up and select Manage Voice Recordings. Select the option that allows you to delete everything.

MORE: For more Alexa-related tips, tricks, and how-tos, check out our complete guide to Alexa.

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How to See and Delete Alexa's Recordings of You

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Worried that Alexa might be holding onto your conversations longer than it should? Amazon's making it easier to delete conversations its voice-powered digital Echo speakers might have recorded - and you can do it all with the sound of your own voice.

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Q. How do I find more games and trivia to play?
A. Open the Alexa app, tap on the Hamburger icon (More) and select Skills & Games.
At the top, tap Categories and scroll down to Games & Trivia Scroll down to the section, "Alexa, what are your kids games skills?" Tap See More.

Q. How do I enable a game or skill?
A. Open the Alexa app, tap on the Hamburger icon (More), and select Skills & Games. At the top, tap Categories and scroll down to Games & Trivia. Once you've picked a skill you want to play, tap the icon and either tap the Launch button to enable the skill or ask Alexa to open the skill.

You can also just ask Alexa to open the skill using your voice. Just say, "Alexa, open [insert Skill Name]" to get started.

Q. How do I set up a game to play every day?
A. To create a Routine in the Alexa app on your mobile device:

1. Go to the menu and select Routines.
2. Select the + icon in the top right corner.
3. Select When This Happens, and then choose how to trigger the Routine.
4. Select Add Skill, and then choose which game you want to play.
5. Under From, select which device controls the routine.
6. Tap Create.

For more information on Routines, visit our Alexa Routines page.

Q. What does Kids+ Unlimited include?
A. Kids+ Unlimited gives you access to thousands of kid-friendly books, movies, TV shows, educational apps, games and premium kids' skills. Starting at $2.99 per month.

Q. What Are Alexa In-Skill Purchases?
A. Information on In-Skill Purchases can be found here.

Q. How do I Report Issues with a Skill
A. . If you experience issues when using a skill, you can report the issues following these steps.

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Q. How do I find more games and trivia to play? A. Open the Alexa app, tap on the Hamburger icon (More) and select Skills & Games.At the top, tap Categories and scroll down to Games & Trivia Scroll down to the section, "Alexa, what are your kids games skills?"

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How to Control Your Amazon Echo from Anywhere Using Your Phone

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How to Control Your Amazon Echo from Anywhere Using Your Phone

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How to Control Your Amazon Echo from Anywhere Using Your Phone

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If your Amazon Echo can't hear you from the other room, or if you just want to control it when you're away from home altogether, you can do so with the Amazon app (on iOS) or the Alexa app (on Android).

The Echo's far-field voice recognition technology is one of the device's most touted features. It lets the Echo hear your voice from well across the room, even when there's music playing. However, the biggest hindrance is walls, and if you want to control the Echo from the next room over, it may not hear you. Furthermore, if you're away from home and you want to give a voice command to Alexa, you obviously can't.

However, Amazon's own shopping app on iOS and the Alexa app on Android both let you give Echo voice commands through your phone, effectively getting rid of the need for the $30 Voice Remote. The phone apps don't directly control your physical Amazon Echo unit, but they do act as a virtual Echo device, communicating with your Alexa account and letting you control your smarthome devices by voice using Alexa on your phone.

Note: Amazon has announced that in the near future, the Alexa app on iOS will also offer this feature.

How to Control Alexa From Your iPhone

Alexa in the Amazon shopping app on the iPhone uses the existing microphone button in the app that's used for voice search. You can still use it for that, of course, but now Alexa is completely built in. Here's how to quickly set it up and get going.

Install the Amazon app for iOS, if you haven't already. Open it up, and then tap the microphone button toward the top-right corner of the screen.

Tap the "Allow Microphone Access" button at the bottom.

Hit "OK" to give the app permission to use your iPhone's microphone.

After that, you can give Alexa commands by tapping the microphone button first, and then saying your command-no need to start with "Alexa," either. She is listening whenever the blue bar at the bottom lights up.

How to Control Alexa From an Android Phone

Luckily, Alexa on Android makes a bit more sense, as Amazon has integrated it into the Alexa app itself.

To get started using Alexa on your Android phone, make sure to first update the app so that you're using the latest version. Open the app, and then tap the "Alexa" button at the bottom.

On the next screen, tap the "Allow" button to give Alexa permission to use your phone's microphone and location so that it can hear your voice commands and help with location-based requests.

Hit "Done" at the bottom.

After that, you can immediately begin giving Alexa commands. Just tap the "Alexa" button and start talking.

The great thing about using Alexa on your Android device (as opposed to the Amazon app on iPhone) is that Alexa uses the screen to show you more information about your request. So, for example, if you asked about the weather, you'd automatically see the forecast pop up on the screen.

The same thing goes for other things, like asking Alexa about coffee shops nearby-it's like an Echo Show or Echo Spot right in the palm of your hand.

Of course, the only downside to these apps is that they aren't quite as quick to use as the Voice Remote (where you can just pick it up and speak), and they don't have the always-on listening of the Echo. But if you want a much cheaper alternative that you can also use while you're away from home entirely, the Amazon app and Alexa app have got you covered.

Craig Lloyd is a smarthome expert with nearly ten years of professional writing experience. His work has been published by iFixit, Lifehacker, Digital Trends, Slashgear, and GottaBeMobile. Craig Lloyd
Read Full Bio "

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How to Control Your Amazon Echo from Anywhere Using Your Phone

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If your Amazon Echo can't hear you from the other room, or if you just want to control it when you're away from home altogether, you can do so with the Amazon app (on iOS) or the Alexa app (on Android).

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Introducing Alexa Voice Remote Pro, includes remote finder, TV controls, backlit buttons, requires compatible Fire TV device

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While Alexa Voice Remote Pro is compatible with most Fire TV streaming media players, Amazon Fire TV smart TVs, and other popular TVs, soundbars, and A/V receivers, it is not compatible with all brands or models. Compatibility with most smart TVs with Fire TV built-in will be available in the coming months. We recommend using this compatibility guide to ensure Alexa Voice Remote Pro is compatible with your device before placing an order.

The Remote Finder feature has a range of up to 30ft (10m) and requires the Fire TV device to be on. Learn more here.

Remote includes 4 pre-programed app buttons including Prime Video and Netflix; other 2 app buttons will vary.

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Introducing Alexa Voice Remote Pro, includes remote finder, TV controls, backlit buttons, requires compatible Fire TV device

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Introducing Alexa Voice Remote Pro! This Amazon Fire TV remote includes remote finder and TV controls. Must be paired with a compatible Fire TV device. Shop now.

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Create Alexa Skills Kit | Amazon Alexa Voice Development

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Create Alexa Skills Kit | Amazon Alexa Voice Development

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Amazon Alexa Skills Kit (ASK) provides self-service APIs and built-in voice interaction models that allow developers to deliver their voice experience in more than 20 different categories, including games, education, music & audio, health & fitness, smart home device, business & finance, weather, travel, and more.

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When you buy an Alexa-enabled device, such as an Echo or Fire TV, you get several Alexa skills that range from fun and silly to surprisingly useful. Here's a look at 60 helpful and entertaining Alexa skills to try with your Alexa-enabled device.

How to Use Alexa's Skills

To use an Alexa skill, you'll need to enable it. Say, "Alexa, enable [skill name]," and Alexa issues voice-prompt instructions, if needed, to complete the process.

You can also go to the Alexa app, browse through skills to find something that interests you, then tap Enable Skill to get started. Here's how:

1. Open the Alexa app and tap More.

2. Tap Categories or scroll down for recommendations.

3. Choose a skill and tap Enable to Use or Launch.

4. If prompted, log in or accept any permissions the skill requires.

5. Your new skill is now enabled. On the skill's info page, you'll see what verbiage to use to start the skill, for example, "Alexa, play Jeopardy!"

60 Top Alexa Skills for Fun, Productivity, and Learning

Here's a look at 60 quality Alexa skills to keep you entertained, help you relax, help you or your children learn, and more. Search for these skills on your Alexa app to enable each skill.

The Best Entertainment and Humor-Related Skills

The following Alexa skills will keep you entertained for hours. Each command is started with an action, such as open or ask.

Alexa, Open the Tonight Show: Missed Jimmy Fallon's monologue last night? Want to know who the comedian's upcoming guests are? This skill has you covered.

Alexa, Play Beer Goggles: Maybe you should hold off on pouring another drink. This skill asks a set of questions and then determines whether you reached your limit based on the responses.

Alexa, Ask Westeros: With the amount of sheer carnage in George R. R. Martin's Game of Thrones, it can be hard to keep up with who's still alive. This skill tells you whether a particular character has been confirmed dead or not. It's based on the book series, which is not completely in sync with the HBO drama that aired through May 2019.

Alexa, Open Geek Humor: A skill that's bound to make your inner nerd chuckle, Geek Humor tells jokes from science and technology categories.

Alexa, Open Radio Mystery Theater: This skill takes you back in time by playing old episodes of CBS Radio Mystery Theater, a series that took the airwaves by storm in the 1970s.

Top Music, Books, and Podcast Skills

Alexa-enabled devices are also great tools for listening to your favorite songs, podcasts, and audiobooks.

Alexa, Play Music by [Artist Name]: This skill plays random songs from the respective artist or group. The source of these songs depends on what services or digital assets you associated with your account.

Alexa, Play [Song Name]: Plays the song of your choice, assuming that it's available in your assets or active services (for example, Amazon Music).

Alexa, Play [Album Name] Album: Instructs Alexa to play a full album, starting from the beginning.

Alexa, Play [Artist] on Pandora: Streams a station of your choice through the Alexa-enabled device. You need to register your Pandora account via the Alexa app for this skill to become available.

Alexa, Play [Radio Station] on TuneIn: Plays a particular radio station through the TuneIn broadcast service. If the station you're seeking can't be found, Alexa automatically searches for it on iHeartRadio.

Alexa, Play [Radio Station] on iHeartRadio: Similar to the skill above, with the service search order reversed.

Alexa, Play [Book Name] on Audible: If you purchased a book through Audible, this skill allows you to listen to it through your Alexa-enabled device.

School Yourself With Educational and Reference Skills

This next group of Alexa skills aims to pique your curiosity and keep your mind sharp.

Alexa, Open Save Water by Colgate. With this skill, Alexa begins a dialogue where users can receive water conservation facts and tips while brushing their teeth. To encourage tooth-scrubbing listeners to turn off the sink faucet while they brush, Alexa plays the sound of running water to replace the sound of actual water coming out of the faucet.

Alexa, Launch This Day In History: Powered by The History Channel, this skill provides a rundown of noteworthy events that took place on today's date. Specify a different date by saying, "Alexa, ask This Day In History what happened on [date]."

Alexa, Open NASA Mars: Ask all the questions you want about the Red Planet, including details on the Curiosity rover's latest update.

Alexa, Ask Baseball Reference: This skill lets you ask Alexa a limitless number of questions about historical baseball data, including statistics and award winners from past seasons.

Alexa, Open Best Recipes: Suggests recipes based on three ingredients that you specify. You must submit your email address to Hellmann's for it to function correctly.

Alexa, Ask Beer Snob: A hops-infused skill that provides information about a bevy of beers, including where the beverage is brewed and the approval rating fellow drinkers assigned to it.

Alexa, Open Ingredient Sub: This skill comes in handy when you're missing a particular ingredient for a recipe, letting you know what options can be used as a substitute.

Alexa, Ask Mixologist: Acts as a virtual bartender, telling you how to make the adult beverage of your choice.

Alexa, Open Daily Buzzword: A great way to build your vocabulary. This skill defines a new word each day from the Merriam-Webster dictionary.

Alexa, Start Poker Pro: Contains interactive tutorials where you make decisions in hypothetical cash game and tournament situations, after which Alexa explains why you made the right or wrong call. The detail in this skill can help improve your No-Limit Hold'em prowess.

Alexa, Open Myth Buster: This skill recites various myths and then asks you to guess whether each myth is true or false, making for an educational and enjoyable game.

Alexa, Ask Artsy: The Artsy skill offers in-depth information about your favorite artists and recommendations for art exhibits in your area. You can also listen to the most recent episode of the Artsy podcast.

Alexa, What's the Score of the [Team Name] Game?: Gives you an up-to-date score on an ongoing sports matchup, or the final result of a completed contest.

Alexa, Ask Edmunds: Returns Edmunds profiles about most car models, including reviews and lease details in your local area.

Immersive Gaming Skills With Alexa

Although you operate Alexa with your voice, some cool games are available, due in part to developer ingenuity and player imagination.

Alexa, Play Jeopardy: Alexa assumes the role of Alex Trebek by asking a new set of questions every weekday, phrased in the parlance of the long-running quiz show.

Alexa, Play RuneScape: Former and current players of the classic MMORPG, as well as fans of the turn-based adventure genre, will enjoy this audio-driven murder mystery. The game stores your progress so you can continue where you left off at a later time.

Alexa, Play Twenty Questions: This skill helps get those brain cells firing by pitting you against Alexa in a classic guessing game.

Alexa, Open the Magic Door: Immerse yourself in a series of interactive experiences where your choices have unique consequences, reminiscent of the Choose Your Own Adventure books from decades past.

Alexa, Open the Wayne Investigation: Developed by Warner Brothers, this skill places you in the middle of Gotham City, where you solve the murder of Batman's parents.

Alexa, Ask Magic 8-Ball: A virtual twist on an old favorite, this skill provides a random yes or no response to any question, without turning the device upside down to see your fate.

All-Purpose Health and Wellness Skills

These skills are designed to help better live your life, both physically and mentally.

Alexa, Open Meditation Timer: Assists in your meditation routine by playing relaxing sounds for the desired duration, and ringing a bell when your time is up.

Alexa, Ask My Pregnancy: A useful skill for expecting mothers. My Pregnancy provides detailed medical information along the way as you move toward your due date.

Alexa, Open Healthy Habit: Provides a health-conscious suggestion each time you access the skill.

Alexa, Start Cal Pal: Launches a calculator that tells you what level of exercise is needed to burn off a specific amount of calories.

Alexa, Inspire Me: Plays inspirational tidbits from one of several famous speakers from all walks of life.

Alexa, Open Daily Affirmation: Offers an encouraging and uplifting message once per day.

Alexa, Open Deep Breath: Steps you through deep-breathing exercises and mental images intended to reduce stress.

Restful Ambient Noise Skills

Your Alexa-enabled device also functions as a white noise machine, playing the following ambient sounds to set the right mood at the right time.

Extremely Savvy Financial Skills

The Alexa skills below can assist in growing your stock portfolio and bank account.

Alexa, Open Stock Trigger: This skill provides on-demand stock quotes and the ability to set up SMS notification triggers each time a particular stock reaches a user-defined threshold.

Alexa, Ask CryptoCoin: Provides the current value of Bitcoin in U.S. dollars, along with the percentage change over the past 24 hours.

Alexa, Ask The Fool: Presents details from The Motley Fool on the stock of your choice, as well as the latest information from your watchlist.

Need More? Try These Miscellaneous Skills

These Alexa skills may not fit into one of the categories above, but each is good enough to make the list.

Alexa, What's My Flash Briefing?: Flash Briefings are short, curated, informative pieces of audio that deliver weather, traffic, and news information. While saying, "Alexa, what's the weather?" returns the current conditions in your area, asking for a Flash Briefing delivers the latest headlines on dozens of wide-ranging topics from more than 2,000 sources.

Alexa, Open Johnnie Walker: An interesting skill for whiskey aficionados, or those who want to learn more about the distilled beverage.

Alexa, Ask My Buddy: When you have a medical issue or other emergency and can't get to your phone, this skill alerts one or more predesignated contacts for you. A fully configured and linked Ask My Buddy account is required.

Alexa, Ask Fortune Cookie: Cracks open a fortune cookie at any time, allowing you to hear its infinite wisdom without ordering Chinese food.

Alexa, Ask Web Analytics: A terrific tool for anyone who monitors their web traffic through Google Analytics. This skill instructs Alexa to provide the number of unique visitors, page views, sessions, and bounce rate from a linked Google account.

Alexa, Interview Me: Asks a different question that you may hear on a job interview each time you access this skill to help you better prepare for those important meetings.

Alexa, Ask Area Code: Returns location details for any three-digit area code.

Alexa, Ask Steve Jobs Quotes: Plays famous snippets and lesser-known quotes from the late Apple co-founder.

Alexa, Open Spin the Wheel: Tired of flipping a coin or seeing who draws the short straw? This skill prompts you for between two and 10 names and then picks one at random.

Alexa, Open Bedtime Story: This is a neat skill for your kids, as it incorporates their name into the story.

Alexa, Open Stopwatch: A basic yet useful skill that turns Alexa into a stopwatch, allowing you to check duration status and stop at any time.

Alexa, Ask Tweet Reader: This skill prompts Alexa to read the tweets in your timeline, from newest to oldest.

Alexa, Set an Alarm for [Time]: Prompts Alexa to sound an alarm at a specified time. Configure this alert to go off regularly by saying, "Alexa, set a repeating alarm for [weekdays or weekends/time]."

More on Alexa Skills

There are thousands of additional skills available for Alexa, searchable within the app, or the Alexa Skills section of Amazon.com. Find sports trivia, view transportation schedules, and shop on Amazon.com with Alexa. Have Alexa manage your calendar or order pizza and a latte. Create skills using the Alexa Blueprints portal.

You can always ask Alexa a free-form question. If it doesn't know the answer, Alexa usually performs a Bing search based on your inquiry.

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When you buy an Alexa-enabled device, such as an Echo or Fire TV, you get several Alexa skills that range from fun and silly to surprisingly useful. Here's a look at 60 helpful and entertaining Alexa skills to try with your Alexa-enabled device. To use an Alexa skill, you'll need to enable it.

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How to change Alexa's voice, speed, language and accent

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How to change Alexa’s voice to be an accent

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How to change Alexa’s voice to be an accent

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Want to change Alexa's voice? While the soft tones of Amazon's popular smart assistant have won over many, there are plenty of good reasons for wanting it to sound a little different.

Maybe you'd rather hear a different language, or accent - or maybe you're a bit tired of tech companies using female voices for their subservient AI products.

Alexa isn't the most flexible in this area, but there are a few things you can do to amend the way Alexa's voice is deployed in your home - say, on the Amazon Echo smart speaker, whatever newfangled shower head you have installed in your bathroom, or on your smartphone.

Here's how to set Alexa's language, access the special Samuel L. Jackson voice, or starting thinking about competing voice assistants like Google Assistant or Siri.

How to set Alexa's language (and accent)

Here's the most important setting for Alexa's voice: the language it speaks in.

Most Echo devices will use Alexa in English, though Amazon is expanding the assistant's repertoire to include a host of other languages. By heading to your Alexa app and into Settings > Device Settings, and selecting an Echo device, you'll find a Language option (underneath General).

This feature is only available on first-party Amazon devices like the Echo, Echo Dot, or Echo Plus - so third-party Alexa-powered smart speakers like the Pure DiscovR are stuck in their default language.

If you're speaking to Alexa in English, it can also be set to US English, UK English, Canadian English, Australian / New Zealand English, and Indian English.

Brief Mode and Whisper Mode

There are, thankfully, a few other edits you can make to Alexa's voice beyond the language.

In the Alexa smartphone app, you can head to Settings > Voice Responses and toggle either the Brief Mode or Whisper Mode.

Brief Mode provides shorter responses from Alexa - if you're not the chatty type - and will replace simple affirmative answers with a brief beep instead.

Whisper Mode provides answers in a quiet, hushed tone. Perfect for ambient settings or when you don't want to wake the kids. (You can, of course, also turn the volume down by hand, and Alexa also responds to the "quieter" command.)

How to change Alexa's voice speed

Just want Alexa to speak a little slower - or not take as long answering your queries? Say "Alexa, speak faster / slower" and your wish shall be granted.

How to set Alexa's voice as Samuel L. Jackson

You may have built up some excitement over the option to set Alexa's voice as Samuel L. Jackson, from such cult films as Pulp Fiction and Snakes on a Plane.

However, Jackson can't be used for everything. It works by asking Alexa to ask Samuel L. Jackson a question, and then hearing his response. It's an official feature that Jackson lent his voice for, and costs $0.99. Just ask Alexa to "introduce me to Samuel L. Jackson", and away you go.

It's currently only available in the US, though we expect Amazon to expand its Celebrity Voice program into other countries in the future.

Amazon's product page (opens in new tab) states that, "Although he can do a lot, Sam won't be able to help with Shopping, lists, reminders or Skills", but you should get some entertainment value out of hearing Jackson's voice in other contexts - and you can even choose whether to allow explicit language or not.

Is that it?

Sadly, yes. Alexa offers very little customization. It may be the most popular voice assistant, but that doesn't mean the competition doesn't have some advantages.

Google Assistant, for one, allows you to switch the gender of its voice - though labelled as 'orange' and 'red' rather than 'man' and 'woman'.

Siri, too, has plenty of accent options for its voice, meaning you can pick an American, Australian, British, Indian, Irish, or South African accent when using the assistant in English. You can pick between two genders too.

Google Assistant is available in all Android OS devices (any smartphone not made by Apple, really) as well as Google Home smart speakers and select smart TVs. Siri comes built-in with Apple iPhones, AirPods, Macbooks, and the like - though is considerably less advanced than the other two assistants.

Samsung's Bixby voice assistant is generally seen as the runt of the litter, but it does have various speaking styles to choose from too.

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How to change Alexa's voice, speed, language and accent

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Want to change Alexa's voice? While the soft tones of Amazon's popular smart assistant have won over many, there are plenty of good reasons for wanting it to sound a little different. Maybe you'd rather hear a different language, or accent - or maybe you're a bit tired of tech companies using female voices for their subservient AI products.

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The Most Common Echo Show Problems and How to Fix Them | Digital Trends

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The most common Amazon show problems and how to fix them

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The most common Amazon show problems and how to fix them

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If you're looking to add a smart display to your home, the Amazon Echo Show is a great option. Bringing the best of Alexa into the visual realm, the Echo Show allows you to tap into real-time video from your home's smart security system, have video calls with friends and family using Alexa's Drop In feature, stream from Hulu and Prime Video, run photo slideshows, and so much more.

But glitches happen, and the Echo Show is not without its small trail of troubles. Fortunately, many of these issues have straightforward fixes. In this deep dive, we'll be taking a look at the most common Echo Show problems and how you can fix them.

At a glance

Echo Show screen is flickering

This issue has been with the Echo Show since the first-generation model. What we're talking about are pulsating horizontal lines stretching across the screen. Sometimes, the malfunction appears closer to the bottom of the display, where Alexa's indicator is, or up and down the entire display. Some Echo Show owners experience this infrequently, others all the time. If your own Show is flickering, there are a few things you can try.

For starters, see if a hard reset helps. Unplug your Echo Show from the wall outlet, wait about 15 seconds, then plug it back in. If your flicker remains, not to worry. There are two other possible causes (and two more fixes).

One could be your screen brightness. The flicker is known to present itself on Echo Shows where display brightness is turned all the way up, or with units that have adaptive brightness enabled. First, try lowering the brightness. To do so, swipe down on your Show and select Settings. Scroll down and tap Display, then scroll down to the brightness adjuster. If it's cranked all the way up, lower it. If you're still getting flicker, right below the brightness bar is an option for Adaptive Brightness with a toggle on/off. By default, this function is turned on. Toggle off, and see if the flicker goes away. If not, there's one more potential cause, but it's the least likely of the three.

Sometimes, the Echo Show can pick up interference from power-heavy devices like computers, printers, vacuums, and similar hardware. That very interference could be screwing with your Show's display. To reprimand, try moving the Show (or your power-heavy gear) to another location, and see if the flicker disappears.

Echo Show has distorted sound

You're listening to your favorite playlist or preferred morning radio hour when suddenly, your Echo Show's audio becomes distorted. You're not alone, as many Show owners have experienced the same ugly tones across first- and second-gen hardware. Some report the disturbance across higher frequencies, while others hear it everywhere in the mix. Unfortunately, there's not much rhyme or reason with this bug, but it seems less a hardware issue (related to things like device speakers) and more a strange software glitch. But there are still some things you can do to mitigate it.

For starters, you'll want to make sure your smart speaker is receiving a good Wi-Fi signal. A poor internet connection can cause all kinds of smart device troubles, from compressed sound to lower-res video. If your signal is solid, some owners report that simply adjusting the device volume can make the distortion go away, at least for a time. You can do so through the Alexa app, with voice commands, or with the volume toggle/buttons on your Show.

Still got that buzzy sound? Let's try a hard reset. Unplug, wait, then re-plug. Launch your preferred sound source and see if you've still got some buzz or breakup. If the disturbance lives on, you can try adjusting a few EQ settings on your Show. Swipe down and tap Settings > Sound > Equalizer. By default, treble, midrange, and bass should all be middle of the road. Try adjusting the treble and bass to see if that buzz clears out.

Echo Show touchscreen is unresponsive

Have you noticed that your Show touchscreen isn't as responsive as it used to be? Maybe there are parts of the screen that respond better than others? There could be a few reasons why your Show is being a pest. For starters, let's make sure your screen isn't too gunked up. The Echo Show is a touchscreen device after all, and while display hubs are built to withstand our abuse, they can only take so much of our oily skin and fingerprints. Wipe your Show's display with a proper LCD cleaner, especially around the edges of the screen, as this is where the Show's main infrared sensors are located.

While you're at it, make sure the edges of your Show are free of obstructions, as performance can be hindered if the sensors are blocked. Move things out of the way, or simply relocate your Echo Show to a spot with more real estate.

Echo Show isn't connecting to Wi-Fi

Sometimes the Echo Show can run into Wi-Fi issues, whether it's an intermittent connection or trouble pairing to a network altogether. To start, ask Alexa, "Are you connected to the Internet?" The assistant will then read off network diagnostics for whatever Alexa-enabled hardware is on your network.

Intermittent Wi-Fi troubles can often be solved by simply hard-resetting your Echo Show. Unplug, re-plug, then see if the Amazon device comes back online. If not, there are other fixes you can attempt. As mentioned above, certain appliances and other devices can cause interference to both the Show and your Wi-Fi. Try relocating your Echo Show closer to your router or to a room without as many devices in it, and check to see if the Show performs better here.

If you've recently changed your Wi-Fi password, you'll also want to make sure the Echo Show has the latest password logged. To do so, swipe down from the top of the screen, tap Settings > Network, then enter in your latest password.

Echo Show calling isn't working

You can use the Echo Show to make phone and video calls to friends and family. You can do this with other Alexa-enabled devices with a feature called Drop In, as well as to non-Drop In contacts (phone only). If you're finding that you can't make calls when you previously could, there are a few ways to troubleshoot.

For Drop In and other call functions, the smart home device requires a solid Wi-Fi connection. If you're experiencing network issues, follow the steps from the above Wi-Fi section to fix them. If you're attempting to initiate calls with voice commands, Alexa may not be recognizing the contact name you're speaking. To figure out what Alexa thinks you're saying, you can ask, "Alexa, what did you hear?" to have the assistant repeat your last spoken words to her.

You'll also want to make sure your contact info is correct. If you have an old number or email linked to your Echo Show, but your contact has new credentials, you'll need to go into the Alexa app to update these specifics. To do so, launch the app, choose Communicate, tap the Contacts icon, then find the contact you're having issues connecting with and ensure their number and other essentials are up to date.

Echo Show camera isn't working

Your Echo Show's Drop In camera is an awesome communication tool, but it can be a little glitchy. Many Show owners have experienced total video loss during a Drop In session. Some have lost sound, too. This is a tricky one, but let's rule out the easy stuff. For starters, make sure your privacy shutter isn't engaged. The shutter is controlled by a toggle switch next to the camera. If you've still got no video, we're probably talking about a software bug.

First, try a hard reset. Unplug, wait, then re-plug. Then, try launching the cam. Still nothing? Many Show owners have needed to factory reset their device to "wake up" their camera. We'll teach you how to do the same. To factory reset your show, simply press and hold the Volume Down + Mute buttons at the same time. Hold for about 15 seconds until you see the Amazon boot screen.

If you've still got no video, you may want to reach out to Amazon for a replacement (if your Echo Show is still under warranty).

Echo Show isn't pairing with other devices

Maybe your Echo Show isn't linking to your smart security. Perhaps you're having issues pairing it with a Bluetooth speaker. Device-pairing issues will occur occasionally, even with other Amazon Echo products. The fixes are usually pretty straightforward though. For starters, if the device you want to pair to uses Wi-Fi, you'll want to make sure both your Echo Show and the device are on the same network. If not, there's the problem. Get your gear on the same network and you should be golden.

No? Then let's try something else. If the device you're trying to pair with uses an Alexa skill, you can try deleting and re-adding the skill to your Alexa account. To do so, open the Alexa app, tap Skills & Games, locate your device's skill, select it, then tap Delete. Then, re-add the skill and try pairing the device to your Echo Show. You can also tell Alexa to re-add the skill with voice commands. Just be sure to enunciate.

Alexa is unresponsive

Is Alexa not responding to her wake word? With the Echo Show, the call of "Alexa" (or another wake name) results in a horizontal bar of blue light at the bottom of the display. No light means Alexa isn't listening. So how can we fix that? There are a few causes to review. Let's work from the simplest to the most complex.

Our first cause is Alexa simply can't hear you. Rule out the obvious culprits first. Did you accidentally turn off your Echo Show's microphone? If the mic/camera button is mistakenly pushed, it will disable both the mic and Show camera. You'll know both are off if the button glows red. To reenable, just tap the button to toggle on.

If Alexa still isn't listening, it may be the environment she's placed in. The Show's array mics do a solid job of hearing your commands, but a heavily trafficked kitchen or loud TV room can certainly interfere. Try relocating your Show to a quieter location.

If you're still having trouble, we might be talking about a poor Wi-Fi connection. If your Amazon Echo speaker isn't receiving a stable network signal, the device can run sluggishly or not at all (save for being powered on). We recommend a hard reset of everything. Start with your network gear (router/modem), then reset your Echo Show. Once everything is back online, give Alexa a voice command. If she still isn't responding, try moving your Echo Show closer to your router, if possible. In cases where your Show needs to remain in an un-ideal spot, it may be worth upgrading your network components.

Alexa plays music on the wrong device

Have you ever tried to play music on your kitchen Echo Show, only for tunes to start playing on a different Echo device altogether? Less a bug and more a device-preferences snag, one of the main reasons this occurs is that your Echo Show may be a part of a larger Alexa smart home group. If you have more than one Alexa-enabled device in the same group, when you ask Alexa to play music (even if you're asking a specific Echo Show or other device), Alexa defaults to playing music on the last used device in that room.

There are a couple of ways to get around this. For starters, you can always designate which device you want Alexa to play music on by saying the device name at the end of your command. This will work even if your Echo Show is part of a larger smart home group.

If you only want Alexa to play music on your Echo Show, you can always choose a preferred speaker in the Alexa app. To do this, you'll need to navigate to the Groups page (under Devices). Choose the group you want to designate a default speaker for, then tap Preferred Speaker.

Alexa isn't finding a specific device

It can be frustrating when you're trying to add a new device to your Echo Show's pantheon of smart home controls, only to run into what seems like compatibility issues. Fortunately, there are a number of fixes you can try to get Device A working with Device B.

It may sound obvious, but you'll want to start by making sure both brands actually work together. While there are thousands of third-party devices that are compatible with Alexa, there are a handful of brands that simply cannot link up with an Alexa ecosystem. Look for Alexa marketing somewhere on the box of your smart home hardware, or look online.

If Device A does work with Device B, you'll want to make sure your smart home product is on the same Wi-Fi network as your Echo Show. Often, our in-home routers broadcast 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands for connecting our gear. For devices to interact with the Echo Show, they need to be on the exact same Wi-Fi network as the Show.

If that all checks out but still no luck, try deleting your device's skill from your Echo Show and then re-adding it. Or, if all else fails, do a hard reset of the Show and your third-party device.

Alexa is having trouble with Bluetooth

If you're having trouble pairing your Echo Show to Bluetooth speakers and similar hardware, there could be a few troubles. One is range. Bluetooth works some wireless wonders but does its best work when devices are in close range. Interference from other hardware can easily get in the way, especially over long distances. Try moving your external speaker closer to the Show. If both devices still won't pair, chances are it's a compatibility issue.

For Bluetooth profiles, Alexa supports both the Advanced Audio Distribution Profile (A2DP SNK) and Audio/Video Remote Control Profile. If your Bluetooth device doesn't use either class, you're not going to be able to link it with your Echo Show.

You'll also want to make sure your Bluetooth device is running the latest software and that it's fully charged. Sometimes, if your hardware is running on the last third (or less) of its battery capacity, certain core functions may not work. When you recharge your component, you may find that it works perfectly with your Echo Show.

In conclusion

There are a number of Echo Show afflictions that can be handled fairly easily. For any other bug or recurring trouble that we didn't cover in this guide, you can always hop over to Amazon's device forums to see if other users are experiencing the same errors. And don't forget the tried-and-true hard reset. Regardless of whether the glitch is big or small, sometimes all you need to do is unplug your Show, wait, then re-power.

Editors' Recommendations

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The Most Common Echo Show Problems and How to Fix Them | Digital Trends

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If you're looking to add a smart display to your home, the Amazon Echo Show is a great option. Bringing the best of Alexa into the visual realm, the Echo Show allows you to tap into real-time video from your home's smart security system, have video calls with friends and family using Alexa's Drop In feature, stream from Hulu and Prime Video, run photo slideshows, and so much more.

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8 Common Alexa & Amazon Echo Problems (2021) - How to Fix them!!

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8 Common Alexa & Amazon Echo Problems (2021) - How to Fix them!!

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How to See and Delete Alexa's Recordings of You

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Worried that Alexa might be holding onto your conversations longer than it should? Amazon's making it easier to delete conversations its voice-powered digital Echo speakers might have recorded - and you can do it all with the sound of your own voice.

At the same time it announced a new series of Echo devices, Amazon also launched updates to its Alexa Privacy Hub (opens in new tab) that provides explanations on Alexa privacy controls as well as access to your settings. There are also brand new voice commands that give you immediate control over Alexa recordings.

Fears about Alexa-based smart speakers sending private conversations are common. Amazon VP of public policy Brian Huseman confirmed expectations about how long the company keeps recordings, telling senator Chris Coons (D-DE) that "We retain customers' voice recordings and transcripts until the customer chooses to delete them."

How to delete Alexa conversations with your voice

If you really want to make sure that Alexa isn't keeping a recording of what you've said, you can take advantage of a voice control that erases everything you've said that day. Say "Alexa, delete everything I said today," and anything recorded between midnight and the moment you utter that command will be erased.

You'll have to opt into the feature to be able to delete conversations by voice. In the Alexa app, go to Settings, and select Alexa Account, then Alexa Privacy, and finally Review Voice History. From there, you can toggle on the "Enable Deletion by Voice" feature.

You can also say, "Alexa, delete what I just said" to erase your last request to the voice assistant.

How to turn on auto-delete for Alexa recordings

You can arrange your Alexa history to delete automatically. In the Alexa app, go to Settings > Alexa Privacy > Manage Your Alexa Data. Under 'Manage your voice recordings,' you can use the 'Automatically delete recordings' toggle to make your recordings delete after 3 or 18 months.

How to clear your Alexa history

If you're uncomfortable with the idea of leaving around old voice recordings, there's an old-school way to clear the data on your Alexa devices, though it involves a bit of tapping. Before you start deleting, remember that you're essentially wiping the AI's specialized memory, as it's retaining this information to better serve you.

Still, here's how to clear your Alexa history and delete recordings.

Step 1: Open the Alexa app on your smartphone and tap the menu button to open the sidebar. Select Settings.

Step 2: Select Alexa Privacy.

Step 3: Select Review Voice History. Here you can enable and disable voice commands for deleting voice recordings, and see audio recordings retained by your device.

Step 4: Select a recording.

Step 5: Select Delete Selected Recordings. If you want to scrub Alexa clean of all recordings, tap Today, select All History and tap Delete All Recordings for All History.

Or you could visit Amazon's Content and Devices page (opens in new tab) to erase all of your recordings at once. From there, select Your Devices, click on the Alexa device you want to clean up and select Manage Voice Recordings. Select the option that allows you to delete everything.

MORE: For more Alexa-related tips, tricks, and how-tos, check out our complete guide to Alexa.

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How to See and Delete Alexa's Recordings of You

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Worried that Alexa might be holding onto your conversations longer than it should? Amazon's making it easier to delete conversations its voice-powered digital Echo speakers might have recorded - and you can do it all with the sound of your own voice.

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25 funny Amazon Alexa tricks and Easter eggs

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Are you looking for funny Amazon Alexa tricks? You've come to the right place.

From playing music to controlling your lights, the virtual assistant inside the best Alexa speakers and other devices is great for getting things done. But there's a more playful side to Amazon's assistant, too, if you know how to use Alexa and have read our guide to the best Alexa skills.

Whether you want to keep your family entertained, show off Alexa's powers to your friends or are simply in need of a little laughter, here are 25 funny Amazon Alexa tricks and Easter eggs for your Echo speaker. They all work without adding any skills or connecting any other devices. Just say the right words, and prepare to have fun.

See all our favorite funny Amazon Alexa tricks below.

1. Bust some rhymes

Alexa is great at playing songs you pick from Amazon Music or Spotify, but it can also carry a tune itself. Say, "Alexa, sing me a song," and it replies, "Who me? I couldn't. I ... Hit it!" and then delivers a tune about the life of an AI. It also has a rap ready - just say, "Alexa, rap for me." But when you ask it to beatbox, you'll get, "Boots and cats, boots and cats. You know what, I don't think I'm cut out for beatboxing."

2. A galaxy far, far away

Alexa has several Star Wars Easter eggs for your entertainment. Say, "Alexa, speak like Yoda," and you'll hear, "Speak like Yoda I cannot. Master he is, while merely apprentice I am." Tell it to use the Force, and Alexa says that droids can't use the force. It also knows that Han shot first in the original version of Episode IV.

3. Say anything - almost

You can get Alexa to say almost anything using the Simon Says command. Say, "Alexa, Simon says, 'I love Google,'" and Alexa will say "I love Google." However, if you try to get Alexa to say some swear words, it will censor itself with a bleep instead of cursing.

4. A friendly welcome

Just because Alexa is a machine, that doesn't mean it lacks manners. If you need a friendly greeting after a hard day at work, say, "Alexa, I'm home!" and it responds, "Welcome home. I hope you're having a good day." Say, "Alexa, good night," and it says, "Good night. Sleep well."

5. Abbott and Costello for the digital age

Alexa can tell jokes - just say, "Alexa, tell me a joke" - but it also knows comedy history. Ask, "Alexa, who's on first?" and it replies, "That's what I keep telling you. Who's on first, what's on second," referencing Abbott and Costello's classic routine.

6. Virtual high five

When you want to celebrate, but there's no one around, Alexa can be your mate - sort of. Say, "Alexa, high five," and it says, "I would if I could, but I can't so I chant: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5!"

7. Random fact generator

Got a thirst for knowledge and don't care what you learn? Say, "Alexa, tell me something interesting," and the device will pull facts out of its virtual hat. I learned that Kongo Gumi was the world's oldest company, lasting 1,400 years, and that army ants are blind and rely on pheromone trails to move around.

8. A worthy opponent

When you're in the mood for a raucous round of Rock, Paper, Scissors, Lizard, Spock and there's no one around, Alexa's always up for a game. Say, "Alexa, play Rock, Paper, Scissors, Lizard, Spock," and it will respond with its choice.

9. Self distruct

Alexa knows that people rarely actually want self-destruct to work properly. Say, "Alexa, self-destruct," and she has a few answers prepared, including, "Auto-destruction in 5, 4, 3, 2, 1. Boom! Hmm, that did not go as planned," and "I'll start the self-destruct sequence, but only on the understanding that you dramatically cancel it at the last second."

10. Better than a dictionary

Ask for the longest word in the English language and Alexa tells you that it's pneumonoultramicroscopicsilicovolcanoconiosis, and then defines the term. Alexa can also spell supercalifragilisticexpialidocious, just in case you should ever need to write that word out.

11. Cheat code

Alexa's a fan of the Konami code, the classic gaming cheat code. Just don't expect any advantage after activating. Say, "Alexa, up up down down left right left right B A start," and Alexa responds, "Super Alexa mode activated. Starting reactors. Online. Enabling advanced systems. Online. Raising dongers. Error. Dongers missing. Aborted."

12. Play that song by that guy

You can now tap your Alexa history to have Amazon Music play songs whose title you don't remember. You can say such things as "Alexa, play the Bruce Springsteen song I was listening to four weeks ago." You can ask for music by artist, genre, or time period, or ask Alexa to play songs you haven't heard in a while. However, this only works with Amazon Music.

Other requests you can say include:

"Alexa, play me jazz music I was listening to last month.""Alexa, play rock songs I haven't heard in a while."

13. Chuck Norris facts

Everybody appreciates a Chuck Norris meme - even Alexa. Ask, "Alexa, where is Chuck Norris?" and you'll hear, "If Chuck Norris wants you to know where he is, he'll find you. If he doesn't, you won't know until it's too late."

14. Countdown

Alexa is handy when you need a quick timer, but it's also useful when you need to know how many days you have until a specific date. Ask, "Alexa, how many days until April 1?" and you'll know exactly how much time you have for planning your April Fools' prank.

15. Beam Me Up

If you're stuck on a planet you don't want to be on, Alexa can whisk you away (or try to, at least). Say "Alexa, beam me up." Alexa will give a cute response such as "Let's do this. I'll try not to leave any body parts behind." Then it will count down, and a futuristic space-y noise will initiate the beam.

16. How much wood?

Ask Alexa how much wood a wood chuck would chuck (if it could chuck wood). You'll get a humorous response, and may even learn a thing or two about wood chucks.

17. Fine-tune your music

You can adjust the bass, mid-range and treble tones of your music. Say "Alexa, set the treble to 6," or "Alexa, set the bass to maximum" to make your music your own.

18. Pi Day

You can ask Alexa for the value of pi to a specific digit, such as five or 10. But for fun, just ask, "Alexa, what is the value of pi?" and it will start with 3.14 and keep going until about the 40th digit. Then it gives up, saying, "Yowza, this goes on forever!" or "Achoo! I must be allergic to numbers this large."

19. Thumbs up, thumbs down on Pandora

If you're listening to a station on Pandora, you can tell Alexa to give a song a thumbs up by saying, "Alexa, I like this song," and the rating is saved to your station history. Saying, "Alexa, I don't like this song" also works.

20. Deep Thought's sibling?

Ask Alexa for the meaning of life, and it answers succinctly, "42," a reference to the answer given by the supercomputer Deep Thought in Douglas Adams' novel "The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy."

21. Pick a card, any card

Need help with a card trick? Say, "Alexa, pick a card," and Alexa will randomly tell you one. I got the six of spades. It can also pick a random number for you.

22. A romantic at heart

Alexa is a bit of a softie when it comes to Valentine's Day. You can ask her several romantic-related questions, as well as some for those singles out there.

What to Say:

"Alexa, tell me a love story.""Alexa, who is your celebrity crush?""Alexa, happy Singles Awareness Day!""Alexa, who is your valentine?""Alexa, what are you doing for Valentine's Day?""Alexa, tell me a Valentine's Day joke."

23. Self-centered

Ask Alexa what the five greatest words in the English language are, and it replies, "Your Amazon Echo has shipped."

24. Watch Twitch streams

Twitch has added an Alexa skill (opens in new tab), so that you can watch Twitch streams on your Echo Show or Echo Spot. The skill can also get to Alexa can notify you when channels you follow start broadcasting. You can also ask Alexa for streams based on genres, games, or popularity.

25. Find your next concert

Alexa can tell you about upcoming concerts around the world. Ask "Alexa, when is Bruno Mars coming to New York?" or "Alexa, is there a concert at Gillette Stadium today?" Alexa can tell you when and where your favorite artists are performing, and who's coming to your hometown.

How to find more Alexa Easter eggs

Alexa will gladly tell you more ways to find Easter eggs-but you've got to do some work before it gives them up. Say "Alexa, tell me an Easter egg," and it will give you a clue about an Easter egg it can do. You'll need to figure out the right thing to say on your own.

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25 funny Amazon Alexa tricks and Easter eggs

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(Image credit: Tom's Guide) Are you looking for funny Amazon Alexa tricks? You've come to the right place. From playing music to controlling your lights, the virtual assistant inside the best Alexa speakers and other devices is great for getting things done.

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Amazon Alexa Setup: Settings to Enable and Disable

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Amazon Alexa Setup: Settings to Enable and Disable

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Amazon's Alexa is a powerful virtual assistant - almost too powerful. Here are some default settings to change right away and hidden features to enable.

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#Alexa: Meaning of the Echo Light Ring colors!

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What do the spinning lights mean on the Alexa?

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What do the spinning lights mean on the Alexa?

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#Alexa: Meaning of the Echo Light Ring colors!

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Turn your Amazon Echo Show into a security camera. Here's how

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Turn your Alexa into a security camera

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Beneath the mild-mannered facade of a regular, everyday voice assistant, Alexa has an alter-ego -- a crime-fighter, you could say -- that can be summoned with the flip of a toggle found deep within your Amazon Echo Show's device settings. The setting is called Home Monitoring and it can transform your otherwise milquetoast smart display into a bad-guy-halting security camera. (Bad guys not included.)

Okay, so Home Monitoring may not be the stuff of superhero origin stories, but it's still pretty nifty as long as you don't need a lot of advanced security camera features. It doesn't record video and you can only put it where you'd otherwise put a smart display (so, no mounting it on the ceiling, unless you're actually Spider-Man). But still, it's usefull for checking in on kids, pets or your house while you're away.

But why not just use the Drop-In feature, which does same thing?

Because Drop-In is really just a type of video call, which means the device you're calling displays a video of you, too, and hey, maybe you don't want that. Instead, you might prefer a more incognito approach when you're checking on people, pets or anything else. Do note, however, that the device does display a message indicating that the camera is live and someone is watching remotely, so if it's subterfuge you're looking for, Amazon has a whole host of spy cameras you might consider instead.

Read more: announced the Echo Show 15 smart display at its September 2021 fall product launch event, along with several other new Echo and Ring products.

If you just want to check in on things from time to time without having to check your appearance first, Home Monitoring might just replace that security camera you were thinking of buying. Plus, if you have the Echo Show 10, you can not only view the camera feed, but you can pan the room left to right (although, unfortunately, not up and down). Can't do that with Drop-In, can you?

Speaking of the Echo Show 10, it actually wasn't until this iteration of Amazon's flagship smart display that the Home Monitoring feature even appeared in the Alexa app as an option for other devices. At first, only the Echo Show 10 could pull it off, but a recent update seems to have changed all that and now the first-gen and have a Home Monitoring setting, too. This feature is also available on the updated versions of these smart displays, the Echo Show 5 (2021) and the Echo Show 8 (2021), which launched early June.

In other words, this is a pretty hot-off-the-presses new feature.

Setting up your Amazon Echo Show smart display to appear as a security camera in the Alexa app is a bit trickier than enabling most features -- for security reasons, you have to set it up on the device itself, not from within the app. That said, it should only take you a couple of minutes, and it's totally worth the effort. Here's how to do it.

Start with the device you want to make a security camera

To enable your Echo Show device as a security camera, you'll need to access the device's settings -- not Device settings in the Alexa app, mind you (although you'll use the app eventually here). First you want to head over to your physical device, the actual Echo Show smart display, swipe down from the top of the screen to access the main menu and tap Settings or say, "Alexa, go to settings." From there, follow these steps:

1. To the right of Home Monitoring, tap the toggle to flip it on.

Brett Pearce/CNET

2. A screen will appear telling you "Echo Show can help you monitor your home..." Tap Continue.

3. A screen will appear asking you to verify your account. Tap Continue.

4. Key in your Amazon account password, then tap Done.

5. A screen will appear that reads "All set." Tap Done immediately (if you let this screen time out, the Home Monitoring setting won't change and you'll have to start over at Step 1).

There are two more on-device settings you can adjust from here, which we'll get to next.

Add a video delay or audio alert to bolster privacy

Before you close out of the settings menu completely, you've got two more options to consider, both of which are about privacy.

Turning on the first toggle, labeled Video Delay, will blur the first few seconds of video, much like what happens with a Drop-In call. This gives anyone on the other side of the camera the opportunity to react to suddenly being watched. How would they know they were suddenly on camera, you ask?

They'll know if you decide to turn on the other toggle on this screen, the one labeled Audio Alert. With this setting enabled, the device will play a sound when the camera starts streaming, letting anyone on the other end know the camera feed is going live.

If you live alone, these settings probably aren't of much use to you. But if you live with others -- whether family or friends -- it's a pretty decent courtesy to warn them if they're being surveilled, so you might want to turn them both on.

How to view your new 'security camera' video and audio feed

Now for the fun part -- checking on your cameras. Note that if you do this from within the same room as the camera you're logging onto, you'll want to mute your phone or tablet to avoid any audio feedback. Here are the steps:

1. Open the Alexa app and tap Devices on the bottom menu.

2. Horizontally scroll the top menu and tap on Cameras.

3. Tap the Echo Show device that has the camera you want to view.

Next, the app will open the camera feed. If you're using the newest Echo Show 10, you can swipe left or right to pan the camera as well as double-tap or pinch to zoom in and out.

Pro tip: Rotate your phone or tablet into the landscape position for the biggest, best view from your device's camera. In landscape, you can single-tap the screen to bring up speaker and microphone controls or to back out of the camera feed.

You still might want a bona fide security camera. Here's why

OK, so there are a few things you can't do with your Amazon Echo Show display that you really ought to be able to do with a device acting as a security camera. Most significantly, you can't record video -- not even when you're streaming (unless, maybe, you record your actual mobile device's screen). That alone knocks down the usefulness of this feature by about half.

There's also no quick and easy way to set up motion alerts, an integral feature of any security camera. You could probably figure out a workaround -- say, by creating a routine to notify you if a camera detects a person -- but those kinds of settings should be front and center on any security camera interface.

At the end of the day, Alexa's Home Monitoring function doesn't replace a full-featured security camera, so if you want motion alerts, video recordings or pretty much any functionality beyond being able to view a livestream, you'll probably want a dedicated security camera.

If all you need to do is drop in on your pets, peek in on your child or otherwise just pop in to check on things every now and again, you can keep your money in your wallet and use the device you already have pretty effectively.

More Alexa and Amazon Echo must-reads

First published May 16, 2021 at 7:15 a.m. EST.

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Turn your Amazon Echo Show into a security camera. Here's how

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Beneath the mild-mannered facade of a regular, everyday voice assistant, Alexa has an alter-ego -- a crime-fighter, you could say -- that can be summoned with the flip of a toggle found deep within your Amazon Echo Show's device settings. The setting is called Home Monitoring and it can transform your otherwise milquetoast smart display into a bad-guy-halting security camera.

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(Image credit: Tom's Guide)

If there's anything consumers have learned in recent years, it's that everything - even devices or institutions we believe to be secure - can be hacked. With the explosion of Internet of Things (IoT) devices in millions of households across America, there are many more opportunities for our personal information to be collected, shared and stolen without our knowledge.

According to a report from Consumer Intelligence Research Partners, there are more than 50 million (opens in new tab) Amazon Echo devices installed in the U.S. Alexa is the most ubiquitous digital assistant, but many users don't know what happens to their data when they ask Alexa to read them a recipe or check their bank balance.

Amazon has repeatedly denied that Alexa-enabled devices are recording at all times, but the devices are always listening (opens in new tab) for the wake word ("Alexa" is one of several options) and will record and store what is said once Alexa is activated. Recordings capture a fraction of a second before the wake word is spoken, and end when the user request has been processed.

Smart assistants' hearing is still far from perfect, and Alexa's recent spate of random laughter is a good example of voice commands gone awry. Users reported that their Alexa-enabled devices laughed unprompted, which Amazon attributed to phrases that sounded similar to "Alexa, laugh" even when users didn't say the wake word.

Does Alexa record private conversations?

There are words that sound similar enough to "Alexa" that it's possible the device will pick up fragments of private conversations that are not intended to be a command, said Pam Dixon, executive director of the World Privacy Forum (opens in new tab), a nonprofit, public interest research group.

"The problem comes when people are not aware that recordings are stored until you delete them," she says. "People should think about what they are asking their voice assistants and know that they can delete that information."

According to an Amazon spokeswoman, Alexa recordings are stored securely on the Amazon Web Services cloud, and the company does not release customer information without a "valid and binding legal demand properly served on us."

In fact, Amazon reportedly refused to comply (opens in new tab) with a warrant for data from an Echo that police in Bentonville, Arkansas, believed to be evidence in a murder case.

Dixon notes that Amazon's privacy policy (opens in new tab) is "pretty transparent" and easily accessible on both desktop and mobile, but what will likely surprise users most is how much of their own voices they'll hear if they listen to what their Alexa-enabled devices have recorded and stored.

"I really don't think these devices are listening and sending that data off to third parties all the time, but from reviewing my own recordings, there was lot more than I anticipated in there," Dixon said.

If you're concerned about the privacy and security of your personal information, there are a few steps you can take to secure your Alexa-enabled device.

Protect your home network

Your smart-home devices are only as secure as the network they connect to. Start by changing the default name and password for your wireless network - don't include identifying information in either - and enable the Wi-Fi Protected Access II (WPA2) protocol on your router.

If possible, create one Wi-Fi network for your smart-home devices and another for devices you use to bank, shop or browse, and set up a firewall to restrict what - and who - can connect. Regularly check for and install firmware updates on all of your gadgets, including Alexa devices.

Change the Alexa wake word

The first step Dixon recommends users take on their Alexa-enabled devices is to change the word that activates recording.

For now, you can use "Amazon," "Computer" or "Echo" instead. Choose the word that you're least likely to use in everyday conversation, so Alexa will record only if you speak directly to it.

It's important to remember that Alexa-enabled devices may be able to pick up strangers' voices through closed windows and doors, Dixon adds. You can also turn off the device's microphone to stop it from listening entirely.

Strengthen your Amazon password

Anyone with access to your Amazon account can listen to, share or delete your Alexa voice-recording history on the Manage Your Content and Devices dashboard (opens in new tab). This includes family members who order items under the same username, but your information might also be vulnerable to hackers who obtain your Amazon password.

The commands you give Alexa - arming your security system, requesting directions and commute times, or calling friends - can provide malicious actors with valuable information about your daily routine, which can put your personal safety, and that of your home and family, at risk. Just as you would with any other login, follow good password hygiene recommendations.

Delete old Alexa recordings, especially those with sensitive information

While asking Alexa to set a timer or play cat noises is fairly innocuous, saved recordings that include sensitive health, legal or financial information are less so.

Dixon says most users don't think about the consequences of having their conversations or requests stored indefinitely where others can access them. Recordings may resurface in divorce or child- custody cases, for example.

"If you have any kind of questions or any kind of misgivings about having recordings around, just delete them," Dixon said. "The idea is just like clearing the web history in a web browser."

To listen to and delete stored recordings, open Settings > History in the Alexa app, or use the dashboard at Amazon.com. Recordings will remain on the Amazon cloud forever until you remove them.

Here's how to delete recent Alexa recordings, automatically delete older recordings or delete all Alexa recordings.

Deleting all old recordings can degrade Alexa's performance (opens in new tab) slightly because the device uses your history to improve responses over time, and it will have to relearn patterns if information is lost.

If you don't want to mass-delete all recordings about local weather or music requests, you can selectively remove more sensitive material. You can also make sure that your Alexa device isn't being used to test new features, which Amazon employees or contractors are more likely to listen to.

Read third-party Alexa skill privacy policies

Third-party Alexa skills, of which there are tens of thousands (opens in new tab), may also collect users' personal information. Amazon requires developers (opens in new tab) of these skills to provide links to their privacy policies on the skill detail pages, but consumers are responsible for digging through each to understand how data is collected, used and stored.

"Everyone is very worried about having any kind of a data breach or leak on these home devices," Dixon says. "No company right now wants to have a privacy issue - caution is the byword going forward."

Today's best Amazon Echo Dot (3rd Generation) deals

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(Image credit: Tom's Guide) If there's anything consumers have learned in recent years, it's that everything - even devices or institutions we believe to be secure - can be hacked. With the explosion of Internet of Things (IoT) devices in millions of households across America, there are many more opportunities for our personal information to be collected, shared and stolen without our knowledge.

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The Best Ways to Use Your Amazon Alexa Device in Your Bedroom

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The Best Ways to Use Your Amazon Alexa Device in Your Bedroom

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The Best Ways to Use Your Amazon Alexa Device in Your Bedroom

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Your Amazon Echo device probably usually lives in your or living room. Sure, it's great you can use it to look up recipes or call loved ones hands-free, but there are many added benefits to placing it in your bedroom -- and the best part is anyone with an Alexa smart speaker can enjoy these features.

For example, it can help put you to sleep with rain sounds or playing a movie on your . It's also great for practical stuff like setting timers and reminders. Here are the best uses for an Amazon Echo Smart speaker in your bedroom. (For more Amazon Echo tips, check out which Alexa settings you should change ASAP, the five useful Echo features you should try today and the newest Alexa commands.)

1. Alexa can help you fall asleep

If you have trouble falling asleep at night, you can use your Echo speaker to play rain sounds or gentle music until you fall asleep. You can so that it turns off after a few hours of playing. You can also follow along with a guided meditation that can help ease the day's stresses.

Or if you prefer to watch movies until you fall asleep, you can place your Echo Show on your bedside table.

2. Listen to music while getting ready

Music can help wake you up and get you ready to take on the day. So having an Alexa device in the room with you means you can sing along while you get dressed. Here are a few music tricks to try out.

If you prefer to wake up to the news, you can also ask to hear the daily briefing from your favorite news station.

3. Let Alexa control your alarms and reminders

Rather than using an alarm clock or your phone for setting alarms, use your Amazon Echo speaker to wake you up. You can wake up to your favorite song each morning. Just say "Alexa, set an alarm for 7 a.m. to [song]."

Plus, if you set an alarm on your Echo device and mute the speaker, you can't tell Alexa to turn it off. Instead, you'll have to physically turn it off, which will make you more likely to get out of bed on time.

Also, if you remember you need to do something as soon as you get up, you can ask Alexa to remind you at a specified time. Simply say, "Alexa, remind me to pick up my grocery order at 11 a.m."

For more ideas, here are the best places in your house to put an Amazon Echo device, as well as the worst areas.

More Amazon Alexa recommendations

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The Best Ways to Use Your Amazon Alexa Device in Your Bedroom

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Your Amazon Echo device probably usually lives in your or living room. Sure, it's great you can use it to look up recipes or call loved ones hands-free, but there are many added benefits to placing it in your bedroom -- and the best part is anyone with an Alexa smart speaker can enjoy these features.

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Lost phone? Check out these 4 ways Alexa can find it for you

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I often misplace my phone in the house. It either slides down between the couch cushions or I forget which room I've left it in or it's tucked somewhere in the mess of blankets on my bed. Fortunately, I've found several easy ways to find it. All I had to do was set up these four features on my Amazon Echo.

You can start by adding an Alexa skill that helps you find your phone by calling it or by using your IFTTT account to call your phone from your Echo device. Note that if your iPhone is on vibrate, you'll need to listen for the vibrations. If you use an Android, you'll have another option.

If you think you lost your phone outside your home, here's how to find your lost Android phone or your lost iPhone. But if you're prone to leaving it inside, here's how to help your future self.

Read more: announced the new Echo Show 15 smart display at its September 2021 fall product launch event, along with several other new Echo and Ring products.

Enable the Find My Phone Alexa skill

There's an Alexa skill called Find My Phone that helps you find your lost phone -- you can even add more than one phone number.

1. In the Alexa app menu, go to Skills & Games.

2. Search for Find My Phone.

4. Link your Amazon account and tap Allow to give the skill access to your account.

5. Say, "Alexa, find my phone." The first time you use the skill, Alexa will ask for your phone number.

6. You'll be sent a four-digit SMS code, which you'll need to read out: "Alexa, [four digit code]." Then your phone will start ringing.

7. You can add another number by saying, "Alexa, ask Find My Phone to add another number."

Enable the Cell Phone Finder skill

The Cell Phone Finder skill is similar to the Find My Phone skill. Here's how to set it up.

1. Say "Alexa, enable Cell Phone Finder."

2. Alexa will instruct you to call 415-212-4525. While you're on the phone with the voice bot, it'll tell you to ask Alexa what your PIN is. Enter the PIN on the phone that Alexa gives you.

3. Now you can say "Alexa, tell Cell Phone Finder to call me." Note that if your ringer isn't on, your phone will vibrate.

Have Alexa find, call and play music on your phone

In order to have Alexa do this, you'll need an IFTTT account. Here's how to set it up.

1. Log in or sign up, then click on the search bar at the top and type "Alexa."

2. There's a list of Alexa choices, and you'll want to click on all that apply. Some examples are Tell Alexa to find your phone, Hey Alexa, call my device and Alexa, play music on my phone.

3. For each one you select, click Connect.

4. Next, you'll be prompted to log in to your Amazon Alexa account and enter your phone number to have a PIN sent to you. Enter the code and tap Connect.

5. Now when your phone gets lost in the house, say, "Alexa, trigger find phone." (If your phone is on vibrate, you'll have to listen closely for the vibrations.)

Play a song on your Android phone

Alexa can play a song on your Android phone, but you'll need to make sure your volume is turned up. To do so, use IFTTT to turn up the volume on your Android phone when you send it a text.

Search for "turn on phone" and scroll through the applets until you find the option Text your lost Android phone to turn the ringer volume up 100%. Click Connect and then click Save. Now you can say "Alexa, text Katie lost phone" and your volume will be turned up.

Unfortunately, if your phone is connected to any Bluetooth speakers or headphones, it will play audio through those instead of its own speakers.

Your smart speaker has a ton of other cool tricks up its sleeve. Here's how to turn your Amazon Echo into a free TV speaker, my favorite hidden Amazon Echo trick and five surprising music hacks for your Amazon Echo.

More Alexa and Amazon Echo must-reads

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Lost phone? Check out these 4 ways Alexa can find it for you

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I often misplace my phone in the house. It either slides down between the couch cushions or I forget which room I've left it in or it's tucked somewhere in the mess of blankets on my bed. Fortunately, I've found several easy ways to find it.

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Why Your Amazon Echo Is Blinking Different Colors

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Call out to and the light on your device turns blue, swirling around as Alexa processes your voice command. You've come to recognize that blue color as a comforting sign that Alexa is listening, but what does it mean when the light blinks yellow or green, or alternates blue and cyan?

No matter if you have an original Amazon Echo smart speaker or one of the many newer Amazon products such as the , the fourth-gen Echo, the Echo Plus, and even in some cases the , you have probably noticed your Amazon device flashing a bright color at some point. One of the most unique design characteristics of Amazon's smart gadgets is the light ring -- or in the case of smart displays, the light bar. In the simplest explanation, your light ring or light bar serves as a status indicator and a notification light for all kinds of information. This means with each color, Alexa is trying to tell you something.

Most of the time, the light ring stays off. If the device is plugged in and there are no lights showing, it means the speaker is active and waiting for you to speak the . When you interact with Alexa, you will see white and various tones of blue. The light ring will tell you if there are any problems with Alexa, as well. Status indicators are red, purple or orange. Now that Alexa lets you send messages and make calls, Amazon has introduced two new colors for notifications: green and yellow. You can just ask Alexa what the colors on your Echo device mean. Or you can read on to learn more.

Blue and cyan mean Alexa is working for you

If you speak the wake word or manually wake Alexa, the light ring will turn solid blue, and a small section of cyan will point in the direction of the person speaking.

Solid blue with spinning cyan after you've spoken a command means Alexa is processing your request. This also happens when the speaker is powering on.

Alternating blue and cyan means Alexa is responding to a command or query.

Green lights are a call indicator

A pulsing green light indicates an incoming call.

A spinning green light means you're currently on a call or an active Drop In.

White could signify volume changes or Away Mode

The light ring will show the volume percentage in white when you manually turn the light ring on the Amazon Echo or the first-generation , press the volume up or down on the second-generation Echo Dot or tell Alexa to adjust the volume.

A continuously spinning white light means Alexa Guard is on Away Mode.

Purple points to Wi-Fi issues or "Do Not Disturb" settings

Pulsing violet indicates that there was a problem during Wi-Fi setup.

A spinning blue light that ends with a purple flash indicates that Do Not Disturb has been activated.

A flash of purple after you interact with Alexa means that Do Not Disturb is still enabled.

Yellow, orange and red: The rest of Alexa's light ring colors decoded

Spinning orange means the device is currently connecting to your network.

Solid red means the microphone has been turned off and Alexa is not actively listening for your commands.

A pulsing yellow light is telling you that you have messages in your inbox. You can say, "Play my messages" or "Check my notifications" for more information.

Echo Show color bar meanings

Unlike the Amazon Echo smart speakers, the Echo Show benefits from having a full display. But the device still uses similar light signals to its speaker counterparts, and they appear on the bottom of the screen in a thin band. Here are the color meanings:

A solid band of blue with a cyan spot indicating the direction of the speaker will appear when you speak the wake word.

A solid band of red means the microphone and camera have been turned off. After a few seconds, the light will turn off, leaving a microphone/camera-off symbol in the upper right hand corner of the display.

A band of orange means your Echo Show is experiencing network connectivity issues.

A band of violet means you have set the Echo Show to Do Not Disturb mode. After a few seconds, the light will turn off, leaving a crescent moon symbol in the upper right hand corner of the display.

For more Amazon Echo tips, here are some Alexa settings you won't regret changing, how to turn off Amazon Sidewalk, which automatically shares your Wi-Fi with neighbors, 5 surprising Alexa features that make working from home easier, and the best Alexa devices for 2022.

More Alexa advice:

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Why Your Amazon Echo Is Blinking Different Colors

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Call out to and the light on your device turns blue, swirling around as Alexa processes your voice command. You've come to recognize that blue color as a comforting sign that Alexa is listening, but what does it mean when the light blinks yellow or green, or alternates blue and cyan?

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'Alexa, Call Mom': Set Up Your Amazon Device to Make Calls and Video Chats

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Alexa is no doubt a fun sidekick. It can host a top-tier game night, it help you relax at the end of a long day and it even has a great sense of humor. But more importantly, Alexa is super practical. One of the main perks of Alexa is that it can streamline your daily communication.

That's right -- if you have an Amazon Echo Show 10, , Echo Flex, the latest Echo Show 15 or one of the many other neat Alexa devices on the market today, you could ditch your landline and use Alexa to make calls and send messages.

Not only can you use Alexa to make Amazon Echo-to-Echo calls, but you can use your Echo device to call someone's mobile phone or landline, and use your Echo Show to make video calls. Sound complicated? It's actually simple. All you have to do is say, "Alexa, call Mom" or "Alexa, call (insert name)," and you can start your voice or video call. We'll walk you through what you need to know and how to set up Alexa for calling and video chats. (If you're on the market for a new Alexa device, check out our favorite Alexa devices, cheap Alexa devices and smart displays of the year).

Set up Echo-to-Echo calls with these 5 easy steps

1. Get an Amazon Echo device: Echo Show, Echo Dot, Echo Flex or others

It probably goes without saying, but if you want to engage in Echo-to-Echo communication, you're going to need an Echo device. At least, sort of. You can technically use the Alexa app, too, but that seems like a stretch given how many other ways there already are to use your phone as, you know, a phone.

Here are the devices that offer Echo-to-Echo calls:

2. Download the Alexa app and make sure it's up to date

This one's a biggie since the Alexa app is basically going to act as your call center. You'll need to make sure you've updated to the most recent version, which features a new design and, most importantly, support for the voice chat feature.

To do so, just head to the App Store on iOS devices or the Google Play Store on Android devices and make sure that you've downloaded and installed the most recent version of the app.

3. Set up the Alexa app to prepare for Echo-to-Echo calls

Once your app is up to date, it'll walk you through the messaging setup process automatically upon first launch. You'll just need to follow a few quick instructions, including confirming your name and phone number as well as enabling access to your contacts list.

4. Make sure your contacts are correct in the Alexa app

The Echo messaging feature uses your contacts to match a phone number to whatever name you're telling Alexa to get in touch with. It then uses that number to identify the Alexa user you're trying to reach -- which is why you need to tell Amazon your phone number during setup.

That's all well and good, but it won't work if your contacts aren't up to date. For instance, if you want to send a message to your mom's Echo Dot, you'll need to have an entry for "Mom" in your phone's contacts, complete with the same phone number that she associated with her Alexa account. And hey, speaking of which...

5. Make sure the person you're calling is on board

This obviously only works if both of you follow those first four steps, so you might need to call mom and walk her through the process (or at least send this article her way).

Now for the sticking points -- or at least the things you should be aware of:

When someone calls you, all of your Echo devices will ring. This includes any phones or tablets that have the Alexa app installed, since you can use those to take calls or listen to messages, too.

Your Echo will glow green when you have a new message. To hear it, just tell Alexa to play your messages.

Amazon will transcribe your messages in the Alexa app. The new messaging section of the Alexa app is a little like a voicemail in-box that lists your recent messages and conversations. For the messages, it'll even include transcribed speech-to-text readouts of what was said -- convenient when you aren't able to listen to a message just then. Just be warned that the transcription accuracy is only so-so -- you might need to decipher a confused phrase or two.

How to use your Amazon Echo to call someone's mobile phone or landline

Echo-to-phone voice calls are possible on all Echo devices and most mobile and landline numbers in the , UK, Canada and Mexico. Like Echo-to-Echo calls, connecting an Echo device and a phone is possible through simple voice commands.

Just say "Alexa, call (name of contact)" to call someone from your phone's contact list. You can also specify which number to call if there are multiple numbers -- say a work and a mobile number -- under one contact. Simply say, "Alexa, call (name of contact) mobile" or "Alexa, call (name of contact) work."

If you're wanting to call a number that's not saved in your contact list, say "Alexa, call (phone number)."

While Echo-to-phone calling is convenient and easy, it's not limitless. Emergency services numbers (such as 911), premium-rate numbers or toll numbers (such as 1-900 numbers) and most international numbers except for the US, UK, Canada and Mexico cannot be called through Echo devices.

How to video call using the Echo Show

Whether you have the original Echo Show 5, the , the third-gen Show 10 or the newest -- and largest -- Echo Show 15, you can make video calls to your friends and family using the smart display.

Before you can make a call, however, you have to first make sure the person you want to video chat with either has the Alexa app set up on their mobile phone or also owns an Echo Show. There are two easy ways to start a video call.

Using voice commands: Say, "Alexa, video call (contact name)."

Using the display: Start by swiping the right side of the display to the left to open the Echo Show feature menu. In the top-left corner of the menu, hit Communicate > Show Contacts to open your contact list. Scroll to the contact you're trying to reach and select the contact name. Next, hit Call under the "Alexa devices" menu to begin a video call.

This is a nifty feature that still works even if your contacts only have a smartphone. Plus, the option to do a group video call is available, too. Just make sure that everyone joining enables Alexa's group call features first, then you can create a contact group through your Alexa app and say "Alexa, video call (whatever you named the contact group)" to begin chatting.

So will Echo-to-Echo or Echo-to-phone calling catch on and end up replacing our landlines? Who knows -- but if you're itching to try out calling with your Alexa devices, now you know how.

Make the most of your Alexa

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'Alexa, Call Mom': Set Up Your Amazon Device to Make Calls and Video Chats

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Alexa is no doubt a fun sidekick. It can host a top-tier game night, it help you relax at the end of a long day and it even has a great sense of humor. But more importantly, Alexa is super practical. One of the main perks of Alexa is that it can streamline your daily communication.

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4 Reasons Why You Need to Keep Your Amazon Alexa Device in the Living Room

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If you've got a living room, you probably spend a lot of time there and that makes it the perfect home for your Amazon Echo gadgets. And while you may use Alexa to or even act as a home security camera, there are several other benefits to keeping an Amazon Alexa device in the living room.

Alexa can turn your living room into a home theater, let you control all your smart home devices from your couch, and so much more. While Alexa has many uses in your home, here are the best uses for an Amazon Echo in your living room. (For more tips, here are the best uses for Amazon Echo in your bedroom, the best things you can do with two or more Echo devices and the best ways to use Amazon Echo in the kitchen.

1. Use your Amazon Echo for surround sound

If you've got an Amazon Echo, you can turn your living room into a home theater for when you're watching movies. Note that you do need to have compatible hardware. This works best if you have multiple Echo speakers in your living room or an Alexa-compatible soundbar.

To get started, open the Alexa app and select Devices, tap the Plus icon and select Set Up Audio System. For the best results, you'll need an Alexa-compatible smart TV or Fire TV to help prevent any lag issues. This also determines whether you'll select Stereo Pair (connect multiple speakers) or Home Theater (connect speakers to Fire TV) to continue setting up your devices. Follow the onscreen instructions to finish pairing your speakers with your TV.

2. Control your lights with Alexa

Whether it's plugging your lamp into a , installing a smart switch or simply using a , Alexa can help you turn your lights on and off. This is especially useful when it's dark and you can't seem to find the light switch in the middle of the night.

For whichever smart device you have, you'll need to connect it to your Amazon Echo using the Alexa app. To get started, open the app and tap Devices, then select the Plus icon and tap Add Device. Select the device you're setting up and follow the onscreen instructions.

3. Manage your home security

If you like to keep your doors locked, even when you're at home, smart locks can be useful for locking and unlocking your door with just your voice. Even better, you can connect it to your Amazon Echo speaker so you can ask Alexa to control your lock without moving from the couch or wherever you are in the house.

For example, you'd say, "Alexa, lock the front door." For security reasons, typically a smart lock will lock the door in response to voice commands, but will only unlock it with a PIN code. For more home security tips, check out how you can use Alexa voice commands to control your home security system.

7 excellent security cameras that work with Amazon Alexa

4. Host family game nights

Playing the same board games over and over can get boring. Fortunately, your Echo device is chock-full of fun games you can play, from trivia to investigation games. Some of the games are already integrated into the Echo speaker, but many are Alexa skills that you can enable in the Alexa app.

The games are great for family nights when you're staying home -- especially with the cooler temperatures. For some starting ideas, here's a list of Alexa games we like best.

More tips for your Amazon Alexa device

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4 Reasons Why You Need to Keep Your Amazon Alexa Device in the Living Room

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If you've got a living room, you probably spend a lot of time there and that makes it the perfect home for your Amazon Echo gadgets. And while you may use Alexa to or even act as a home security camera, there are several other benefits to keeping an Amazon Alexa device in the living room.

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A grocery shopping list that customers choose instead of pen and paper and other digital lists, because it is more convenient, saves time and money, and reduces worry and extra trips to the store by capturing in-the-moment needs, even if you don’t own an Echo device. It helps households complete the…

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Amazon Alexa Voice Remote Pro for Fire TV Review: A Sensible, Convenient Upgrade

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Amazon's Fire TV system gets an upgrade with the Alexa Voice Remote Pro, but is it worth the cost to switch? For now, smart remotes are still pretty basic gadgets-but Amazon has thrown in some handy features that could justify upgrading.

At $35, the Alexa Voice Remote Pro is cheap enough to grab any day, but it's also more expensive than competitors. Cost aside, it might be worth replacing your old Alexa remote -even if you aren't a champion binge-watcher-just for the new auto backlight, a Bluetooth button to connect to your favorite headphones, and two customizable buttons to complete frequent tasks quicker.

New additions aside, the Alexa Voice Remote Pro isn't perfect. There's no way to bypass the Alexa Voice button for a hands-free experience, it doesn't appear to be a universal remote for non-Fire TVs, and Amazon neglected important additions, such as an integrated rechargeable battery.

How-To Geek's expert reviewers go hands-on with each product we review. We put every piece of hardware through hours of testing in the real world and run them through benchmarks in our lab. We never accept payment to endorse or review a product and never aggregate other people's reviews. Read more >>

Look and Feel: Compact and Streamlined

Included in the box: Alexa Voice Remote Pro, 2 AAA batteries, Quick Start Guide

Dimensions: 1.5 x 5.8 x 0.7in (38 x 148 x 18mm)

Weight: 1.9oz (54g) without batteries; 2.2oz (64g) with batteries

Compatibility: Most Fire TV streaming media players, Amazon Fire TV smart TVs, and smart TVs with Fire TV built-in.

Out of the box, I discovered the Alexa Voice Remote Pro, two AAA batteries, and a helpful Quick Start Guide that details the controls, how to set it up, and how to use its features, such as the remote finder and Bluetooth connectivity.

The remote looks similar to past iterations, but its new additions-notably the Bluetooth headphone button in the top-right corner of the remote-are well integrated. In the top-center spot is the blue Alexa Voice button, and above that is an indicator light and microphone. Meanwhile, the programmable buttons ("1" and "2") are located in the third row from the bottom, above the app shortcut buttons.

The Alexa Voice Remote Pro feels more solid than other Alexa remotes, which I appreciated. For context, the 3rd Gen Alexa Voice Remote weighs 0.4 ounces less.

The latest Alexa remote is still compact and easy to lose, but Amazon has somewhat remedied this common frustration with the remote's built-in remote finder (which I'll detail later).

Setting Up: Simple or a Pain?

Setting up your Alexa Voice Remote Pro should be easy. Unfortunately, you might have some issues if you're hooking it up with a smart TV via a Fire Stick device. The instructions in the Quick Start Guide provided me with the basics, but when I couldn't get my TV to read the remote, I had to head to the forums.

Since I didn't have a smart TV with Fire TV built-in, I had to install the Fire TV Stick 4K, which comes with the 2nd Gen Alexa Voice Remote.

Because my Roku TV's three HDMI ports were occupied, I had to unplug my Xbox One-a reminder that I should grab an HDMI switch to add more ports to my TV. It took a couple of tries to get the Fire TV Stick 4K to register.

I had to unplug it and power cycle my TV to get my Roku to list the second HDMI port as "Fire TV." Then, my Fire TV app struggled to recognize the Alexa Voice Remote included in the Fire TV Stick bundle. I removed the batteries at least four times, restarted my TV twice, and finally gave up after wasting 20 minutes trying.

My Roku finally got with the program the next morning, and the first Alexa Voice Remote worked. Then I set up the Alexa Voice Remote Pro as an additional remote in the Fire TV app's Settings.

Cianna Garrison / How-To Geek

Cianna Garrison / How-To Geek

Cianna Garrison / How-To Geek

Adding the Alexa Voice Remote Pro was the easiest, most painless part of the process, so if you already have Fire TV on your television, you shouldn't struggle as much as I did. Again, I'm uncertain if the blame was on my Roku TV, but I have a suspicion that it was the culprit. Additionally, if you use a soundbar, Amazon has done an excellent job of making that part of your setup as painless as possible.

What the Pro Has That Old Remotes Don't

Buying the latest Alexa remote makes sense if your house is full of Amazon devices; it makes everything more convenient. For example, you can use Alexa Voice Remote to extend the reach of Amazon Echo devices.

I don't have a Fire TV, but with the Fire TV Stick 4K Amazon sent with the remote, I got much of the same experience. Even if the company made its Amazon Voice Remote Pro with Fire TVs in mind, you could upgrade your remote for your Fire TV Stick without a worry about performance; but make sure it's on the compatible list. For instance, the 1st Gen Amazon Fire TV isn't a compatible device. It's also important to note the company will expand compatibility in the coming months.

The Programmable Buttons

Programmable Buttons: 2 programmable buttons labeled "1" and "2."

Having two customizable buttons can make your streaming experience easier-so I appreciate the thought Amazon put into this feature. I watched way too many Discovery+ shows over the holiday season, so I programmed button "1" to launch Discovery+. This made it easier to continue my marathon of Food Network's " Christmas Cookie Challenge "-don't judge me.

Instead of pushing the Alexa Voice button and asking Alexa to launch Discovery+ every time, a single push of a button was all I needed to get to the app.

I also frequently enjoy Amazon Music, so I set button "2" to "Go to Amazon Music."

The process was easy. I held down one of the two buttons for three seconds. Then, I followed the prompt and selected an action from my list of previous Alexa commands. From there, I chose one from the list or went to the pre-programmed suggestions. If you have a specific order you haven't asked Alexa yet, hit the back arrow on your remote, tell Alexa to do the action desired, then repeat. You'll see the new command at the top of your list.

The Bluetooth Headphones Button

If you live with other people, an integrated Bluetooth button is a terrific option to have. Whenever I wanted to play a game on my Nintendo Switch or watch a show without disturbing anyone, I got connected with ease. To do so, you tap the Bluetooth button and scroll to "Add Device." I paired my Beats Studio Buds, and in a matter of seconds, I was getting the TV audio through my earbuds.

Some may prefer a wired headphone jack to be included on the Alexa Voice Remote Pro as well, but as someone who has more Bluetooth devices than wired, it didn't bother me. However, more options are always the most convenient, so this might be a dealbreaker for you.

Backlight Me, Baby

It's a ridiculously simple upgrade, but the Alexa Voice Remote Pro's automated backlight is a welcome upgrade and probably my favorite of the three. In regular lighting, the Alexa Voice Remote Pro keeps the light off to conserve battery. But in dim lighting, the remote lights up when you pick it up, so there's no need to turn on a light or reach for your phone's flashlight to press the right button.

The Remote Finder Feature

For what it is, the Alexa Voice Remote Pro's Remote Finder feature does its job. If you've lost your remote, you can say, "Alexa, find my remote," to any Amazon device with Alexa. You can also use the Alexa app (available on iPhone and Android) or Fire TV app (available on iPhone and Android) or tap the remote finder button in the Fire TV app.

I "hid" my remote several times to test out this feature. Sure enough, when I asked Alexa to find my controller, I heard a shrill ringing sound coming from where I placed the remote. If your Fire TV device is on, you have a lot of battery power left, and you're within 30 feet (~9m) of your TV, the remote finder will sound. If any of these things aren't in alignment, the Remote Finder won't work.

Obviously, the limited capabilities of this feature could make it difficult to actually find your remote when you've lost it, so I'd still keep tabs on the accessory when you can.

Performance: The Alexa Voice Remote Pro Devliers

Power Requirements: 2 AAA batteries (included)

Warranty: 90-Day Limited Warranty and service

As far as the Alexa Voice Remote Pro's overall performance, I'd give it a solid 8 out of 10-and it might've been higher if not for a few things that could use improvement.

First off, the Alexa Voice Remote Pro doesn't have the option to use only your voice to wake Alexa-a feature that was probably left out due to how easy it is to activate Alexa if you accidentally say the name or, ironically, have a best friend named Alexa as I do. Still, bypassing the button and using voice activation would've been nice, especially since the latest Roku Voice Remote Pro includes a voice-wake feature and costs less money.

Second, most of us are getting tired of changing the batteries in these smart remotes every two days. That estimate may be an exaggeration-but it seems these smart devices zap up power in a matter of a few days, a week tops. Again, Roku's Remote Pro is rechargeable, so I'm disappointed Amazon didn't latch onto this as well.

Lastly, the Alexa Voice Pro Remote wasn't an all-in-one, universal remote. It didn't work from my TV's homepage and only responded once I had Fire TV open.

When I summoned it from cyberspace, the integrated Alexa Assistant worked well. I started by changing Alexa's voice to a British man in place of the standard woman's voice, and from there was able to command it to launch my favorite TV apps, search for movie titles, and stream music through Amazon Music. You can also ask Alexa to tell you the weather forecast, answer a random question, or turn your Alexa-connected devices (i.e., smart lights, for example) on or off. The performance was solid-barely a blip in most of my streaming adventures over a span of two weeks.

The issues I had while streaming were small-likely attributable to my Roku or the Fire TV app rather than the remote itself. One example of this was some hideous oversaturation when playing certain shows.

Luckily, switching my "Dynamic Range Settings" under the Fire TV app's "Display and Sounds" settings to "Adaptive" instead of "Always On" eliminated the lobster-person look in Bravo's latest " Below Deck " season.

Should You Buy the Alexa Voice Remote Pro?

The Alexa Voice Remote Pro might not be an upgrade you need, but it's an upgrade that could bring more ease of use to your streaming experience. I wouldn't call it the best smart home device out there, but having it on hand for a couple of weeks made me a believer, despite its shortcomings.

Those who have Roku TVs may want to spring for the Roku Voice Remote Pro, which is cheaper and has similar features. But if you're sold on Amazon's smart devices, the Alexa Voice Remote Pro is the best controller for Amazon's Fire TVs.

You can purchase the Alexa Voice Remote Pro for $35 today.

Cianna Garrison has over five years of experience writing everything from food news and limited-time products to the details on the latest iPhones and earbuds. In the past, she's worked for online magazines, blogs, and more, with technology and social media being one of her primary interests. Cianna Garrison
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Amazon Alexa Voice Remote Pro for Fire TV Review: A Sensible, Convenient Upgrade

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Amazon's Fire TV system gets an upgrade with the Alexa Voice Remote Pro, but is it worth the cost to switch? For now, smart remotes are still pretty basic gadgets-but Amazon has thrown in some handy features that could justify upgrading.

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Simplify Your Morning Routine by Setting Up These Amazon Alexa Routines

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Our smart technology works best for us when it automates the essential parts of our day. Sure, you might see as the follower of your individual commands, but did you know that you can program her to automate the crucial parts of your routine with a few simple voice prompts?

Giving Alexa one command at a time can be inconvenient when you're pressed for time (we know how chaotic it can get when getting ready for work). Fortunately, you can create routines on your Amazon Echo so that you can have several commands performed at one time. For example, when you wake up in the morning, you can have Alexa turn on the lights, read you the daily headlines and start the coffee pot by simply saying, "Alexa, good morning."

Customized routines can also include making the lights brighter in the morning, reporting the traffic for your daily commute and playing your favorite songs -- basically automating all the things you would usually do anyway. The goal of Alexa routines is to make your day seamless and productive. Here's what you need to know to get started. You can also learn which Alexa settings you should change ASAP, and five tips for setting up your new Echo device.

How to create an Alexa routine on your Amazon Echo

1. Open the Amazon Alexa app on your mobile device.

3. Tap the plus (+) sign in the top right corner.

4. Select When this happens and choose how you want to trigger the routine. These are your options:

Screenshot by Katie Conner/CNET

Voice: Your voice command will begin the routine. For example, "Alexa, I'm awake" or "Alexa, start my day."

Schedule: Set a time for Alexa to begin your routine. You won't need a wake word for this.

Device: Alexa will complete the actions using your Amazon Echo Hub.

Location: When you arrive somewhere, like home, Alexa can begin your routine for that location.

Alarm: When you dismiss an alarm, your routine will begin.

Echo Button: Press your Amazon Echo Button to start a routine.

5. Next, tap Add action and select everything you want Alexa to do during this routine.

6. Choose From to select which of your Amazon devices will control the routine.

7. Hit Create.

Hey, Alexa, help me wake up

Alexa can start your morning routine before you're even awake. Set a schedule that tells Alexa to slowly start turning up lights and start brewing your coffee. Once you're awake, say, "Hey, Alexa, good morning" to trigger your morning routine. Set actions so that the Amazon Echo will read you the weather, give your email summary, run down what's on your calendar for the day and let you know what's going on in the news.

Alexa can make your commute more enjoyable

Your favorite morning commute playlist is essential to waking up (aside from all the coffee you just drank). You can tell Alexa to start playing your wake-me-up music, and if you commute through a busy city, it could also be useful to have Alexa read the traffic report.

Use a voice command like, "Hey, Alexa, I'm commuting to work" to activate Alexa. You might also want to add an action that tells Alexa to turn off your smart lights and plugs too, just in case you forgot.

Read more: Music on Your Alexa Speaker Can Sound Better

Alexa can turn on the lights when you get home

Wouldn't it be nice to arrive home to a well-lit house, rather than trying to navigate up the dark stairs leading to your front door? You could set up a voice routine, but we like the location routine for this one.

You'll just need to select Location from the options and enter your home address so that getting near your home will trigger the routine. Once you've done that initial setup, you can add actions to the routine like turning on the porch lights when you arrive home.

Alexa can help you fall asleep faster

Once you're cozied up in your bed and ready to snooze, start your bedtime routine by using another trigger phrase -- it can be something like, "Alexa, I'm ready for bed." For this routine, you'll want to make sure you've enabled the action that lets Alexa turn off your lights.

If you typically have a hard time falling asleep, use the Music action to play rain sounds or relaxing music. You can play songs and playlists from your Library, Amazon Music, iHeartRadio, Pandora and TuneIn. Don't forget to set a timer to turn the music off so it's not playing all night.

Want more Amazon Echo pointers? Here's tips for getting the most out of your Alexa timers and alarms. We can also help you decode what all those colored lights on your Amazon Echo mean.

More Alexa tips:

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Simplify Your Morning Routine by Setting Up These Amazon Alexa Routines

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Our smart technology works best for us when it automates the essential parts of our day. Sure, you might see as the follower of your individual commands, but did you know that you can program her to automate the crucial parts of your routine with a few simple voice prompts?

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How to set up multiroom playback across all of your Alexa devices

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How to set up multiroom playback across all of your Alexa devices

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How to set up multiroom playback across all of your Alexa devices

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Alexa has all sorts of tricks up her sleeve, but voice-activated playback of your favorite music has always been front and center. This week, Amazon doubled down on her ability to stream tunes by letting you group multiple Alexa speakers for simultaneous playback throughout your home.

You'll obviously need more than one Alexa speaker under your roof in order to try it out, but there are a couple of other points to keep in mind, as well. Here's what you need to know, and how to get started.

Only the Amazon Echo, Echo Dot and Echo Show are supported (sorry, Tap)

At launch, those three are the only kinds of Alexa devices you'll be able to group together. It's not at all surprising that the Alexa-powered Echo Look selfie cam got left out, given that it's barely a speaker at all. But the absence of the battery-powered is a disappointment -- especially considering that the little puck doesn't support Alexa's calling and messaging feature, either.

Third-party Alexa speakers such as the and won't work, either -- at least not yet. Amazon has a set of software tools planned to help outside developers bring their Alexa devices into synchronicity, but they won't be arriving until early 2018. Once they do, you'll have a lot more options for expanding your setup, but for now, it's , , or bust.

You might want to rename your devices

One of the side benefits of multiroom audio support is that you can use one Echo device to start playback on another. All you need to do is tack the name of the target speaker onto the end of your command, like, "Alexa, play the Beatles in the kitchen."

Of course, you'll need to rename your kitchen's Echo Dot "Kitchen" in order for that to work. By default, Amazon uses your name to label devices, as in "Ry's Echo." That's fine at first, but less than ideal once you start adding multiple devices to your setup. "Alexa, play the Beatles on Ry's 3rd Echo Dot" just doesn't have the same ring to it.

Fortunately, changing the names of your devices is a cinch. Just go to the settings section of your Alexa app, select the device in question and give it a new name that'll work well with those kinds of commands. Naming each device after the room it's in seems like the best approach.

Screenshots by Ry Crist/CNET

You'll need to group your devices

While you're there in the Alexa app, we can go ahead and knock out the next step: grouping your devices for simultaneous playback. To do so, head back to the settings section and scroll down until you see Multi-Room Music. Tap it, then scroll down and tap Create Group. The app will ask you which type of group you want to create -- tap Multi-Room Music.

From there, the app will ask you to choose a group name (it offers several suggestions, like Downstairs or Backyard) and choose which speakers you want to include in the group. Do so, then click Create Group to finish.

Some caveats

At this point, you're all set to start blasting music across multiple Alexa devices at your next house party, but there are still a couple of things you'll want to be aware of.

First, as of now, Alexa's multiroom audio only supports Amazon Music, iHeartRadio, TuneIn and Pandora. Spotify and SiriusXM aren't supported yet, though Amazon tells us that both are in the works. If, like me, you're a Spotify user, you've got two fixes here. You can either switch your default music service to Amazon or Pandora (just tap Music Services in the Alexa app's settings section), or you can tell Alexa to use one of those supported services when you give your voice command, as in, "Alexa, play jazz music on Amazon Music downstairs." It's clunky, but it works.

Another kink to keep in mind is that each of your Alexa devices can only belong to one group. If you try to add those devices to a second group, you'll find them grayed out and inaccessible. I'm not sure why Amazon did this, but I expect it will change pretty soon. Plenty of users will want to create, for instance, both a Downstairs group and an Everywhere group. And it's worth noting that you can already add Alexa-supported smart home devices to multiple groups.

Finally, some users have reported that multiroom audio won't work with Echo Dots that are connected to outside speakers via Bluetooth. I reached out to Amazon and confirmed it -- those Bluetooth connections aren't compatible with multiroom audio.

As Amazon puts it: "Bluetooth is disabled during audio playback to ensure the best experience. Bluetooth connection will resume when audio playback has stopped."

Direct, wired connections to outside speakers still work, but still, the lack of Bluetooth support is potentially pretty annoying. Here's hoping Amazon will find a fix in the near future.

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How to set up multiroom playback across all of your Alexa devices

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Alexa has all sorts of tricks up her sleeve, but voice-activated playback of your favorite music has always been front and center. This week, Amazon doubled down on her ability to stream tunes by letting you group multiple Alexa speakers for simultaneous playback throughout your home.

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How to use Alexa on the Apple Watch - Wareable

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How to use Alexa on the Apple Watch - Wareable

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How to Enable Motion Detection on Amazon Alexa

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How to Enable Motion Detection on Amazon Alexa

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How to Enable Motion Detection on Amazon Alexa

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How to Enable Motion Detection on Amazon Alexa

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The motion detection features comes free. Let us see how to turn on Amazon Alexa’s Motion detector on your Alexa Device.