If you’re one of the lucky ones who received an Amazon Echo or other Alexa device this Christmas, you might be wondering what to do with it. Fortunately, there’s a simple trick you can use to have Alexa say whatever you want. All you need is your smartphone and the Amazon Alexa app.
First, open up the app and click on the three lines in the upper left-hand corner. From there, select “Routines” and click the plus sign in the upper right-hand corner under “When This Happens”. Select “Voice” and input the phrase you want Alexa to respond to. For example, “Alexa, am I on the nice or naughty list?”
Next, select “Save” and click on “Alexa will add action”. Adjust the volume if necessary and add an action with “Alexa Says”. Hit “Custom” and add the desired phrase. It’s best to avoid contractions as Alexa sometimes has difficulty reading them. Click “Next” and choose “Add From”. Then, hit “Create”.
Note that it can take up to a minute for your Alexa device to recognize the new routine. Once it’s set up, simply ask Alexa the question you programmed and enjoy the response.
This trick can be a lot of fun with friends and family, particularly during the holiday season. So, give it a try and see what creative responses you can program for Alexa!