The Echo and Alexa not only are a quantum step forward in home automation, but she (yes its that good I'll call her she) has utterly and completely exploded the fun scale.
I'm a late adopter of Echo; (obviously with over 3000 Echo reviews already posted). So I'll walk through a few ways Alexa's grown up in the past few months and how I enjoy her every day.
Firstly; I use the Wink app (not the hub, just the free app). I would use the hub, but I don't feel like I need one (yet). The SmartThings hub from Samsung seems to have more product support, but you can't use the app alone and it get's about 1.75 stars on iTunes. So the free Wink app is the winner. It's important to add that the Wink app is phenomenally simple, yet fairly robust, which makes it the perfect sister (or brother) to Alexa. I also use IFTTT. The simplest method (simple being relative I know) is to create an IFTTT that directs Alexa to a Wink Shortcut. Although this takes a few steps to set up, it makes it sooooo easy afterwards to work well with Alexa. All you say is, "Alexa, trigger X". X being things like, "Arm system", "Set Away", "Movienight" etc. You can customize the phrases pretty much however you want. I like, "Alexa, trigger Self Destruct". She doesn't actually explode, fyi. So with that being said, here's some ways Alexa makes life better.
* Nest: Nest control isn't currently native with Alexa. There are two work arounds 1) The aforementioned use of IFTTT to trigger a Wink or using Reflect Connect (free skill in Alexa); then telling Alexa, "Talk to Reflect". Each serves a different purpose and you'll probably use both. With the IFTTT method, you can direct a specific set of pre set actions. I use this to "Trigger Away" which then set's the Nest to Away, turns on my drop cam and my Canary, turn off Hue lights etc. Also use it to "Trigger Home" which does the opposite. Reflect Connect, primes Alexa through a third party to interact more directly with the Nest. So you can say things like, "Set Nest to 70, Turn up Nest 2 degrees", "Run Fan for 15 minutes" etc. So while it's a little more clunky than you may prefer, once set up it works very well. Ecobee integrates more tightly with Alexa, but you still have a few workarounds for things like setting it to heat and cool mode at the same time. I'm sure in short time there will be a direct control from Alexa to Nest but for now, Google has it's vice grip on the system, so the workarounds are the way to go. All in all, I love this setup.
*Dropcam/Nest Cam: Being a now Google owned product, you have some of the same challenges as above and I answer them the same way. I link the Dropcam to Nest and use IFTTT/Wink triggers to set away, set home, create a schedule and turn on my hue lights if it activates and I'm not at home. By packaging commands with Wink, I use one phrase like "Arm System" to activate all the components.
* Canary: I've been testing a Canary, which I'll review separately. In short, I really like it; given what it is and how it's designed to work. IE it's not a full home security system, but it is a good solution and has major advantages over Nest cam (mainly you're aren't limited to alerts only once in 30 minutes). Similar to what I described above, when I say, "Alexa arm system" or "disarm system"; the Canary is set to Armed/Disarmed mode. Or if I say, "Alexa, trigger Away" she turns my Nest to Away, shuts off the lights, arms Canary and turns on the Dropcam. Arming and Disarming are about the only Echo features so far. Canary hasn't opened up the "trigger alarm" ability, except from the app. That would be a great emergency feature, "Alexa, alarm", but I haven't found a way to make that work.
* Hue Lights (and other lights like Lifx). Hue integration is very simple and seamless. Once you set up your Hue system, you just have Alexa "find" the devices. They all show up in the Alexa app and you're good to go. You can say, "Alexa turn on living room light" or group them together and she will. You can say, "Alexa, dim living room light 50%" and she will. Program color changes etc and Alexa will execute. Super useful and easy. I love the convenience before bed, in the morning etc.
* Traffic: Alexa gives you a traffic report, but only on a preset route, i.e.; you have to have put the destination into the app. I was considering moving back towards the beach, which would increase my commute significantly. I set up the destination in the app and ask Alexa a few times throughout the morning, "Alexa, how's traffic?". She tells me the estimated time and route. I've been logging this to see if the new commute changes at different times and if it's worth the move. So far it is definitely not. Alexa can't move time and space, yet.
* Music: I use Alexa mostly to play Spotify or Pandora. "Alexa, play Pandora, Of Monsters and Men". She's off and running. Of course you can ask, what is this song, who is this artist etc and she'll provide you an accurate fast answer. She's compatible with tons' of music service and the ones I've used work flawlessly. If you're an Amazon Prime member, and let's face it, you should be really unless you live under a rock, but probably mostly then; you just say, "Alexa, play Band of Horses" and she almost immediately fires off the tunes. Super easy and efficient. Sound quality is very good. It's not Sonos quality and you can't stream to multiple rooms (even with multiple echo's they will act independent) but it's very good. Better than most typical bluetooth speakers. Speaking of Sonos, I think you can use a Smartthings Hub and link Alexa to turn on your Sonos, but I'm not sure how effective it is, nor what music would play (you're last station maybe?). But if you're interested it's worth exploring further. That would be a big win to me, as I'd rather use Alexa to run my Sonos, vs opening another app.
* Time, Alarms and Weather etc: this works like you'd expect and similar to Siri or Cortana etc. It's easy, fast and reliable. I use these type of commands almost daily and no need for me to rehash things like to do lists, alarms or timers.
* Family Friendly: My wife is an anti tech person mildly convinced that eventually all the electronics will cause brain cancer and gluten will most likely kill us. In less than a week, she's now using Alexa to check the time, check the weather and stream music every morning. I've caught her asking Alexa random questions to test her. Although she initially approached Alexa baring her teeth like a protective mother wolf, she's now realized Alexa's not a threat and accepted her warmly into the pack.
* A billion other things: There are so many things, questions, commands etc that you can give Alexa. This is one of my favorite sites and is really helpful if you are new to Alexa or considering her; [...]: search "The Ultimate Guide to Mastering Amazon Echo" they have over 300 easter eggs that are worth exploring and show Alexa's versatility.
-Downsides: are there any? Yep, some, but none that make her less than worthy. As described above, to get full function you still need to maximize a combo of IFTTT, Wink and third party skills. But, they are simple to set up and then make for a flawless experience. Think of it, like setting up your TV and Surround sound so you can watch Game of Thrones (of The Voice if that's your thing) in immersive auditory bliss. It's like that.
-Also, she isn't integrated with everything yet. Like Nest, Canary, Door locks, etc there are closed software platforms that she can't control. She's only so smart, there are many things you'll ask and get, "I'm sorry, I didn't understand that question". However, she's getting smarter every day and you'll be more surprised at the things she does know vs her limitations.
-Portable; she has to be plugged in; oh wait, Amazon Tap you say? Yep, now there's a portable, recharging version if you need to move it around and free yourself from a cable. Big caveat though; she isn't always listening, you have to tap a button first, hence the name Tap because "button" sounds too cute. I'd still opt for plugged and always on, that's the magic of Alexa, throwing out random questions or commands, but too each their own. The new Echo dot looks like a great way to expand your system into other rooms and use your own speakers...more to follow.
-Speaker quality: It's not as good as it could be. The money is in the technology and her speed of response, not in the speaker. So to keep price manageable, it was either a really smart product, or a really good speaker. It's smart and fairly good speaker. Don't expect it replace your Sonos Play 3.
-Connectivity and syncing: It's too bad you can't use these to replace your Sonos. Put a few around the house and have them all play the same music? Maybe in near future; its completely software updatable, but right now...no you can't.
I'll update as I find fun new uses for Alexa, but I'm already head over heels. This is a fantastic new product that moves past gimmick and becomes essentially integrated to your life style.
[...]. Thanks for reading.
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"Alexa, turn on the lights."
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Technical Details
Echo
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Size |
9.25” x 3.3” x 3.3” (235 mm x 84 mm x 84 mm) |
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Weight |
37.5 oz. (1064 grams) Actual size and weight may vary by manufacturing process |
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Wi-Fi connectivity |
Dual-band, dual-antenna Wi-Fi (MIMO) for faster streaming and fewer dropped connections than standard Wi-Fi. Supports 802.11a/b/g/n Wi-Fi networks. Does not support connecting to ad-hoc (or peer-to-peer) Wi-Fi networks. |
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Bluetooth connectivity |
Advanced Audio Distribution Profile (A2DP) support for audio streaming to Bluetooth speakers from Amazon Echo, from your mobile device to Amazon Echo and Audio/Video Remote Control Profile (AVRCP) for voice control of connected mobile devices. Hands-free voice control is not supported for Mac OS X devices. |
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Audio |
2.5 inch woofer and 2.0 inch tweeter. |
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System Requirements |
Amazon Echo comes ready to connect to your Wi-Fi. The Alexa App is compatible with Fire OS, Android, and iOS devices and also accessible via your web browser. |
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Warranty and Service |
1-year limited warranty and service. Optional 1-year, 2-year, and 3-year extended warranty available for U.S. customers sold separately. Use of Echo is subject to the terms found here. |
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Included in the Box |
Amazon Echo, power adapter/cable (6 ft.), and quick start guide. |
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Reviews with images
Already very practical for overcoming disability issues
We have been using Echo since April 2015. Prior to that time, my husband had been hospitalized for several weeks. He is currently wheelchair bound. We immediately installed the Hue bridge and lights as well as the WEMO outlet. With these, and dear, dear, Alexa, he has a great deal of control of his environment in ways that make him much more independent. Others might enjoy Echo for fun and convenience, but for him it is a lifeline! He has even had her turn the lights on in my bedroom when I didn't hear him call.We use the shopping list feature a lot, and my husband has added things to the list that he remembered, while I was already at the store. Should I mention he adds things like chocolate bars when I'm not looking? No more paper lists! I just look at the app on my phone and things disappear as I check them off.We transport Echo from the living room to the bedroom, since it is easier for him not to have to use the remote, plus it is always there for his favorite music, an update on news, and to check the weather. Or, when he needs cheering up, I ask for a joke. Tosave plugging in behind his lift chairs, I have ordered a second plug. I love the easy reconnect to the WIFI.I was a bit worried at first about his word slurring with his Parkinson's, but it has worked the opposite way! I notice he focuses his words much better while giving commands. After he forgot her name early on, we added it so he could remember using the Zink hAppy App.My granddaughter was happy to check her math problems using Echo, and in addition to the music stations and Amazon play lists, Echo is a breeze to use as a Bluetooth device. I have used it to play my meditation apps and iTunes music. In case you aren't aware, Amazon even allows you to upload your iTunes library and save it in your Amazon Play list. There is a limit for free songs, but we didn't even come close.I won't say it revolutionized our lives, but it has made our lives much more normal. We have recommended it to two Occupational Therapists, and his Home Healthcare director has recommended it for others. I am so excited it is now available for everyone. Amazon didn't intend this as an assistive device, but it is an awesome one.A couple of things I'm hoping for in the future: the ability for her to call 911, and the ability to give storm alerts. I looked for an IFTT configuration on the storm alert, but currently she is only the trigger, not the recipient. You can't have her do something in response to outside events, you can only have other things happen as a result of your interaction with her.Funny, when he was in the hospital, I almost cancelled my long awaited order. I am SO glad we got it.Edited - July 17, 2015 - my husband started TENS therapy for pain two weeks ago and is responding well. Two areas where Echo has been very helpful are setting a timer, and playing background music so he can focus on something else. He is now able to use the muscle, albeit weakly, and is taking steps with close monitoring and a wheelchair behind. He also uses the timer to remind him to stand and to time him for length of time while standing.We also added a second Echo for me to use, so we are a two Echo family.You can set up multiple Echos on the same account and share things like music and shopping lists.Edited November 2, 2015: I am happy to report that Echo (and Gary) have only gotten better. I personally love the multiple alarms, since they are the first thing we do each morning, setting them for medication times. It is the perfect reminder! Echo has also been happy to keep us up to date on favorite sports teams when they aren't on TV. The other night, I found Gary playing his own version of a memory game with Alexa. He was trying to come up with songs he remembered and hadn't heard for awhile and would ask her to play them.In addition to Gary's increasing strength, he now has an electric wheelchair I purchased that allows him access to the bathroom and makes life easier for us. And, Alexa keeps his speech in line. When he realized She had been understanding him less, he went back to doing his speech exercises.Our lives have settled into a new normal, and the Echo is a huge part of what makes normal easier.*** IMPORTANT UPDATE DECEMBER 1, 2015 - In case you aren't in the loop, Amazon has added "Ask My Buddy" to Echo. It permits you to register an account and up to five contacts. Each contact can have email address, text address (cell phone), and Voice Phone. With the simple words "Ask my Buddy," Echo will immediately ask who you want to contact. You may contact an individual or everyone on the list, and Ask My Buddy will immediately send an alert to those who you request. It states that it is "free in this beta version" and you have up to 120 contacts in a month for now. (Each person, text, and email counts).Edited February 28, 2016 - We were able to buy a lift van (used) so we are able to more easily get around. I am trying to get Gary out of the house at least once a week.We are currently planning a trip (by Amtrak) to visit family. It has taken a million details (OK, maybe not a million, but it feels like it) to try to do 36 hours on the train and to set things up my Dad's house. I have a list of things that we are taking with us. Alexa is at the top of the list. I suspect by the time I leave my Dad's home, he will have one on order. I may actually bring Hue light bulbs with me, or at least a WEMO plug.Edited July 2016 - the trip was successful, if stressful on all of us. My Dad is now on Hospice, so I am grateful we went when we could. Sadly, Gary's health has continued to deteriorate, and he would no longer be able to make the trip. We have a hospital bed in our living room where he can be with us more. He is now believed to have a Parkinson's Plus disease called Multiple System Atrophy. Alexa seems to understand him better now using the remote, so we keep it handy. His current Physical and Occupational Therapists love Alexa as well. My greatest pleasure is reading the comments of others who also have disabilities who have been encouraged by my posts. Thank you.Edited September 6, 2016 - Sadly, we lost my Dad shortly after I posted. He really enjoyed Echo during our visit, since he was a huge techie buff. It was fun sharing this important part of our lives with him. Gary continues to have a strong support system medically, although he is getting progressively weaker. An MRI shows he has had at least one stroke, which is probably why Alexa has a harder time understanding him.And yes, all of the new home health members love seeing what we have done with our Echo. I have moved a twin bed into the living room to be with Gary at night, and when he needs help, it is easy to have Echo turn on the light for us. Our daughter and granddaughter moved in to help, and it is ESPECIALLY nice to control all of the lights in the house so easily.April 2, 2017If you aren't aware, TAP, Echo's sister, will now respond to a wake word. As Gary's speech deteriorated, Tap has helped him to more easily turn off the alarm, and having the wake word made it easy for me to control as well using my voice.I have also added Nucleus to our Alexa family, which allows me to do video calls to check on Gary when I am away from home.Gary continues to get weaker, but Echo has been a huge part of our journey. Reading back over my review, it is interesting to note that none of the therapists who visit us now are unfamiliar with Echo, although they enjoy seeing how we use it.We are now at the point where Hospice is stepping in, and we are grateful for the support they offer.
