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Alexa works as a smart-home controller, so it can recognize and work with multiple devices from multiple manufacturers. An Alexa device such as an Echo or Echo Spot is an example of such a controller. Devices Alexa can control (like thermostats, speakers, TVs, and so on) just have to be compatible.
What do I need to use Alexa in my home?
Amazon says putting Alexa to work in your smart home’s easy. Here’s exactly what you need Smart Outlet. This is the simplest of the smart home accessories. Lighting. TV Streaming. Doorbell. Locks. Thermostat. Security cameras.
Is there a monthly fee for Alexa?
There is no monthly fee to operate Alexa on Amazon Alexa-enabled devices. There are subscription services that you can buy which have monthly fees, such as Amazon Prime Services. 8 of 9 found this helpful.
Do you need Wi-Fi for Alexa?
Does Alexa Need WiFi? Alexa devices need a WiFi connection to function properly. When you ask Alexa a question or use a voice command, an audio recording is sent to Amazon’s cloud over your WiFi network.
How much does Alexa cost?
There is no monthly fee involved in using Alexa. Once you purchase an Amazon Echo device, you have full access to Alexa’s AI. Technically, you can even use the Alexa app on your smartphone for free without the purchase of a smart speaker.
Is music free on Alexa?
With Alexa and Prime Music, it’s all at no extra cost and super easy. Find your music by asking Alexa to play a song using title, artist, lyric, playlist or station.
Is Alexa always listening?
The short answer is yes, Alexa is always listening to you. Or rather the microphone on your Alexa smart speaker is always active (by default, at least) and is constantly monitoring voices in your home in order to hear its wake word.
What is free on Alexa?
There are several free services with built-in Alexa integration, including iHeartRadio, Pandora, and TuneIn. You can also link to the free tiers of Spotify and Apple Music as well. Open the Alexa app on your phone or computer.
Do you need smart lights for Alexa?
You don’t need to rewire your home to control your lights by voice with Alexa. You simply need to buy smart LED bulbs that can connect to WiFi or a smart hub that’s compatible with Amazon’s Echo. With Alexa and your voice, you can turn the bulbs on or off.
Can Alexa turn on my TV?
Connecting Alexa to a generic smart TV Step 1: Open the Alexa app on your iOS or Android device. Step 2: Tap the Devices tab at the bottom of your screen. Step 3: Choose the + button in the upper-right corner, then select Add Device. Step 4: Scroll down and select TV.
What are scenes in Alexa?
With the scene feature, a user can use their voice to set multiple devices to previously configured settings. Typically a user edits and creates scenes with an Alexa-compatible hub or through a device manufacturer’s app. You can also create an Alexa skill that provides scenes.
Does Alexa record everything?
Alexa does not actively record and store all your conversations, but it’s always listening for “Alexa,” the wake word. Once you say it, anything you say that follows is recorded and stored in the cloud. One of the reasons Alexa will record conversations is to learn more about you, the user.
Will Alexa work if my phone is not in the house?
Android phones: Android devices running OS Lollipop and above are compatible with Alexa, as long as they also have the Google Assistant app installed. The amazon echo device can be used without a smartphone but requires either an android phone that is on lollipop software or iPhone iOS 11 or above.
What is the difference between Alexa and Echo?
Alexa is specifically the name of the virtual assistant – the disembodied voice you talk to, ask questions, and bug with song requests. Amazon’s Echo is simply the name given to the physical products themselves, the speakers which house the AI Alexa. For more information see our list of Alexa compatible devices.
What can Alexa help you with?
What can Alexa do? Alexa is able to play music, provide information, deliver news and sports scores, tell you the weather, control your smart home and even allow Prime members to order products from Amazon.
How does Alexa make money?
Jackson. Some bullish analysts have postulated that Alexa could generate as much as $19 billion in annual revenue by 2021, through a combination of device sales, paid skills, and other areas such as advertising and voice shopping or transactions.
Can Alexa spy on you?
No, Alexa does not record all your conversations — just some of them. If you’re worried that Amazon Echo or Amazon Echo Dot is spying on you without your permission, it’s easy to tell when the device is listening.
How do I stop Alexa from listening?
What to Know Press the microphone button on your Echo device to immediately stop Alexa from listening. When the button or indicator light is red, it means Alexa is no longer listening. Stop recordings being sent to Amazon: Settings in Alexa app > Alexa privacy > Manage your Alexa data > Don’t Save recordings.
Can someone listen to you through Alexa?
You cannot use Alexa to spy on someone. The only theoretical way is by using the ‘drop in’ function, although you need approval as a contact, and the recipient will receive an alert. Alexa always listens for an alert word, usually ‘Alexa’, but it can’t be used to listen to someone remotely.
