Unlock Alexa’s True Potential: 10 Things You Never Knew She Could Do

Modern AI assistants can do more than play music and games; they can also control smart home devices, set reminders, check the weather, make phone calls, and more. These devices offer many more features than what meets the eye.

Alexa's Hidden Skills You Need to Try

Alexa, Amazon's virtual assistant, is a powerful tool that can make your life much easier. However, many people need to realize just how many things Alexa can do. Here are ten things you probably didn't know Alexa could do:

1. Check on loved ones from a distance.

Alexa's Care Hub is now making it easier to stay connected with your loved ones from afar. By linking both accounts, you can receive notifications when there's a change in your loved one's routine and even communicate hands-free with them through the device.

Privacy is a top priority for AI assistant companies; to use Alexa's Care Hub, users must get permission from their family members or friends before monitoring their devices. With this feature, you can now keep an eye on your loved ones without having to be physically present!

2. Locate your phone.

Misplacing your phone at home can be challenging, but you can make it less so with proper setup. Start by verifying your phone number on the Alexa app. Then, if you need assistance, ask Alexa to locate your phone. It'll call it from a private number and tell you where it's located.

You don't have to be restricted to your home regarding phone location technology. You can use the same feature when out and about. For example, if you're worried about your phone falling into the wrong hands or want extra security, you can have Alexa locate it in public areas like parks or shopping centers.

3. Book transportation.

Why go through the hassle of manually ordering a ride when you can use voice commands? You can quickly request an Uber or Lyft with just a simple phrase by linking your account. Then, Alexa will take care of the rest, even if you're still getting ready. It's a smooth, convenient, and time-saving experience, especially when running late.

Additionally, you can ask Alexa to track the status of your ride, cancel it if needed, and rate your driver once the trip is complete. Plus, if you have multiple ride-sharing apps linked, you can even ask Alexa to compare prices and estimated arrival times of different rides to help you make the best choice.

4. Prepare meals.

Alexa can assist with meal planning and grocery shopping. Use her to create and share a grocery list and order items through Amazon Fresh or Whole Foods Market in select regions.

Need dinner ideas? Ask Alexa for recipe suggestions based on your ingredients and preferred cooking method, and receive step-by-step instructions or even the recipe sent directly to your mobile device. In addition to meal planning and grocery shopping, Alexa can help with cooking. For instance, you can ask her to set timers, convert measurements, and even give you cooking tips and tricks.

She can also play music or audiobooks while you cook, making the experience more enjoyable. And if you ever get stuck or need help with a recipe, ask Alexa for clarification or additional instructions.

5. Develop personalized functionalities.

Amazon's Alexa Skill Blueprints allow anyone to create custom skills, regardless of coding experience. These blueprints enable Alexa users to make voice apps, trivia games, flashcards, and even personalized responses to questions like "Who's the best cook in the world?" It's an excellent opportunity for children to learn to code and expand their skills through the specially designed blueprints for kids.

6. Place an order for a meal.

By linking your accounts, Alexa can help you request transportation and order food from your favorite restaurants. While not all online restaurants are available, the list of supported restaurants is extensive, including popular options like Grubhub, Domino's Pizza, Starbucks, Panera, and Chipotle.

7. Provide daily updates and information.

You can now get a daily briefing tailored to your interests with Alexa. Drawing content from multiple sources, she'll bring you the news without sorting through numerous headlines. The skill is called Flash Briefing—activate it, and you can add your favorite elements like BBC World Service, The Guardian, MTV, or even a Joke of the Day!

8. Voice-activated speakerphone.

Alexa can be an intercom system between Echo devices connected through the Alexa app. To make it easy to identify each device, you can name them by location. Then, to start a conversation between Echo devices, simply say "Alexa, drop-in," followed by the name of the device or room you want to communicate with.

9. Request emergency assistance.

Alexa has a unique subscription feature called Guard Plus, which provides hands-free access to an emergency helpline and alerts regarding suspicious activity in and around your home. What's more, it works with other smart devices.

Guard Plus also offers an "away lighting" feature that allows you to schedule lights to turn on and off at specific times, simulating that you are home even when you are away. This feature can be used as a deterrent against intruders and help you save energy.

This feature can also be integrated with other smart devices, such as security cameras and door locks, providing even more control and peace of mind when you're away from home.

10. Provide entertainment for your pets.

If you're looking for someone to keep your feline friend company while you're away, look no further, Alexa is the perfect pet sitter! With the Meow feature on the app, your cat won't ever feel alone again. And if you have a pup, there's the Dog Teaser skill. Play exciting sounds like dogs yelping, cats meowing, a doorbell ringing, and more—your furry pal will turn their head from side to side in no time!

If you're concerned about the safety and well-being of your pet, Alexa has you covered. With sound detections, activity monitoring, and automatic reminders for medication or food, your furry friend is in good hands.

Unleash Alexa's Full Potential Today

These are just a few of the many things Alexa can do. By taking advantage of these features, you can make your life much easier and more convenient. You can also find more skills and capabilities by searching on the Alexa app or website and enabling them on your device. With Alexa, the possibilities are endless. Unleash Alexa’s full potential today!

Brian Alba, Editorial Staff

Brian's passion for writing drives him to create informative and thought-provoking content. He aims to inspire and educate readers with his work. He is committed to perfecting his craft and pushing the limits of what can be achieved with writing.