Maria Diaz from ZDNET shared her experience as a product developer, highlighting some lesser-known features of products that deserve more recognition. In her article series, she points out cool features for each product, speaking to designers and internal champions to uncover hidden gems. This time, she focuses on the Amazon Echo.
1. Song ID: A new feature that introduces songs and artists before playing them on Amazon Music.
2. Routines: Automate customizable actions using voice commands, such as setting up morning routines or turning off lights.
3. Externally triggered routines: Use Voice Monkey skill to link external triggers like smart home platforms for more customized routines.
4. Integrate Android Tasker automation with Alexa: Use Tasker, AutoVoice, and Alexa app for advanced customization of functions.
5. Delete everything Alexa has recorded: Easily delete all recorded requests and comments by saying a command.
6. Ordering via Alexa: Order products on Amazon with just your voice, helpful for hands-free situations.
7. Get a pizza: Link Domino’s skill to order pizza through Alexa.
8. Announcements: Make one-way announcements to all Alexa devices in your household.
9. Reminders: Set reminders for various tasks or assign them to other household members.
10. Drop In: Create instant connections with other Alexa devices for intercom-like communication.
11. Hands-free calling: Make voice or video calls to contacts using Alexa.
12. Emergency contact: Set an emergency contact for your household to call for help.
13. Grocery help: Add items to shopping lists, check and share lists digitally, or order items through Amazon Fresh.
14. Multiroom audio: Play music on multiple Echo devices simultaneously by creating custom speaker groups in the Alexa app.