How to Make Alexa Say What You Want
Making Alexa say what you want can be a fun and useful tool for users. Whether it’s for practical use, like setting reminders or playing music, or just for entertainment, like telling jokes or playing trivia, here are some tips to customize your device’s voice and commands.
1. Change Your Wake Word
By default, Alexa responds to the wake word “Alexa.” However, if you prefer something else, like “Echo” or “Computer,” you can change it. To do this, open the Alexa app on your smartphone or tablet, select “Devices,” choose your device, and then navigate to “Wake Word” under “Device Settings.” Here, you can choose from one of the four available wake words.
2. Create Custom Routines
Routines allow users to perform multiple actions with a single command. For example, you can create a routine called “Good Night” that turns off your lights, sets your alarm for the next day, and plays soothing music. To create a custom routine, open the Alexa app, select “Routines,” then click “Create Routine.” You can then select the trigger phrase and associated actions.
3. Teach Alexa New Skills
Alexa has over 100,000 skills that allow users to perform a variety of tasks, like ordering pizza or checking the weather. However, if you can’t find a skill that meets your needs, you can create your own. Amazon has a tool called Alexa Skills Kit (ASK) that allows developers to build custom skills. You don’t need to be a developer to use ASK, but some programming knowledge is helpful.
4. Use Alexa’s Text-to-Speech Feature
If you want Alexa to say something specific, like a personal greeting or reminder, you can use the text-to-speech feature. To use this, open the Alexa app, select “Communicate,” then select “Announce.” Here, you can enter the message you want Alexa to say, then select the device you want to send it to.
5. Try Voice Training
If Alexa has trouble understanding your voice or accent, you can try voice training. This feature allows users to ‘train’ Alexa’s speech recognition technology to better understand their voice. To do this, go to the Alexa app, select “Settings,” then “Voice Training.” You will be prompted to read aloud a list of phrases, which Alexa will use to adjust to your voice.
In conclusion, using Alexa to say what you want is a great way to customize your device and improve the user experience. By changing the wake word, creating custom routines, using text-to-speech, and more, you can make your device more personalized and tailored to your needs.