You’re probably aware of the fact that Alexa can tell you the time, the weather, and the top headlines of the day—or that it can set timers, answer questions and play music. But did you know Alexa can find your lost cell phone, or act as an intercom system?
Alexa is smarter than you may realize, and there are tons of cool things it can do to entertain you and make your life easier. Here are just a few features you may want to try out.
You’re probably aware of the fact that Alexa can tell you the time, the weather, and the top headlines of the day—or that it can set timers, answer questions and play music. But did you know Alexa can find your lost cell phone, or act as an intercom system?
Alexa is smarter than you may realize, and there are tons of cool things it can do to entertain you and make your life easier. Here are just a few features you may want to try out.
Next time you misplace your cell phone, Alexa can help. Once you have Alexa Calling enabled, all you have to do is say, “Alexa, find my phone" and Alexa will ring it for you so you can track it down quickly.
Alexa can play all sorts of games with you, from trivia to card games. It's a great way for the whole family to stay entertained without having to pick up a controller or a board game. You can ask Alexa to play specific games, like Heads up! or Jeopardy, and you can also simply say "Alexa, let's play a game," and you'll be presented with a list of options.
In the mood to be entertained? You can ask Alexa to tell you a joke or story. Alexa has access to thousands of jokes, stories, and other fun facts that can be shared with you or your kids.
Alexa can be paired with compatible smart home devices that you can then control with your voice. For example, you can ask Alexa to turn on the TV, or lock your front door if you have a compatible keyless smart lock. Alexa can also turn on lights and control your thermostat with an easy command.
Alexa can automatically whisper if you don't want to create too much noise. You don't even have to say anything specific to get Alexa to whisper–simply whisper your command, and Alexa will respond back in a quiet voice.
Some people prefer that Alexa speak a little quicker, and it's very easy to make that happen. All you need to do is say "Alexa, speak faster" and Alexa will start speaking more quickly. You can also change the speed back by saying "Alexa, speak slower."
Although we’re past the 2022 holiday season, this is a fun trick to remember for next year. Just ask, "Alexa, where's Santa?" and you'll be provided with an update on Santa’s location as he makes his way around the world delivering presents on Christmas. This one's particularly great for households with kids.
If you have multiple Alexa-enabled devices in your home, they can be used to make announcements or check in on one another. Just say "Alexa, announce dinner is ready" and Alexa will send the announcements to all your devices. You can also use Alexa-enabled devices like an intercom system by asking Alexa to “drop in on the Kitchen” (or wherever your other devices may be) and be connected to that device, allowing you to quickly and easily communicate with those around the home, without having to shout down the hall.
Alexa Routines can help automate your day by grouping together actions so you don’t have to ask for each one separately. For example, when you say “Alexa, good morning,” Alexa can kick off your day by turning on the lights, giving you the weather forecast, and starting your favorite playlist. You can schedule Routines to start with a voice command, at a specific time of day, when someone walks into the room, or even when Alexa detects a specific sound.
Now find out how a mom of two autistic sons uses Alexa to manage her family’s day to day.
