Amazon Alexa owners know they can ask Alexa for lots of things, from today’s weather to the Red Sox score. But did you know Alexa can actually help around the house? Here are 12 ways Alexa can help you out.
Controlling Smart Lights
With Alexa, you can control the lighting in your home using voice commands. Simply connect your smart light bulbs to Alexa and say things like, “Alexa, turn on the living room lights” or “Alexa, dim the bedroom lights to 20%.” This feature is especially useful when your hands are full or you’re already cozy in bed.
Managing a Smart Thermostat
Adjust the temperature of your home without ever touching the thermostat. By integrating Alexa with smart thermostat systems like Nest or Ecobee, you can set, adjust, and program your home’s climate with commands like, “Alexa, set the temperature to 70 degrees” or “Alexa, what’s the temperature inside?”
Integrating with Home Security Systems
Alexa can work with home security systems such as Ring or Arlo to enhance your home’s safety. You can arm your security system, check the status of your doors, and even view live feeds from security cameras through Alexa-enabled devices with screens.
Running the Vacuum Cleaner (e.g. Roomba)
Start your robotic vacuum cleaner like Roomba with just a simple voice command. Tell Alexa, “Alexa, start the Roomba,” and watch as your vacuum begins cleaning the floors, making it easy to keep your house tidy without lifting a finger.
Operating Television and Entertainment Systems
Alexa can control your TV, sound system, and other entertainment devices. Link Alexa to devices like Amazon Fire Stick or Logitech Harmony, and use commands like “Alexa, turn on the TV” or “Alexa, play some jazz music.”
Managing Smart Home Cooking Appliances
Connect Alexa to smart kitchen gadgets like connected ovens or Instant Pots. You can preheat your oven or start your coffee maker by saying, “Alexa, preheat the oven to 350 degrees” or “Alexa, start the coffee maker.”
Adding Items to a Shopping List
Keep track of your shopping needs by telling Alexa to add items to your shopping list. Say, “Alexa, add eggs to my shopping list,” and Alexa will update your list, which you can later access on your phone when you’re in the store.
Answering the Door
When connected to a smart doorbell like Ring, Alexa can show you who’s at the door. If someone rings the bell, you can ask, “Alexa, show me the front door camera,” and see who is outside without going to the door.
Connecting to Health Devices
Integrate Alexa with health monitoring devices such as Fitbit or Withings. You can ask for updates on your health stats with commands like, “Alexa, how many steps have I taken today?” or “Alexa, what was my sleep score last night?”
Scheduling and Reminders
Use Alexa to manage your calendar and set reminders for your daily tasks. You can schedule appointments or set reminders like, “Alexa, remind me to call Mom at 3 PM tomorrow.”
Handling Calls and Messaging
Make calls or send messages hands-free by connecting Alexa with your contacts. Simply say, “Alexa, call Dad,” or “Alexa, send a message to Laura saying I’ll be late.”
Guiding Cooking with Recipes
Ask Alexa for recipes and get step-by-step cooking guidance. Say something like, “Alexa, how do I make lasagna?” or “Alexa, give me a recipe for chicken curry,” and Alexa will provide you with a recipe and guide you through the cooking process.