Curious about making the most out of your Alexa experience, even while traveling? There are plenty of ways to improve and customize how you use Alexa and Echo gadgets, no matter what travel plans you have.
Although you can access plenty of the features that come with the AI-based voice assistant, Alexa, without physically being in the room, there are some limitations for a few features as well.
Access Alexa Remotely
Option 1. Use the “Drop-in” Feature
Alexa’s latest feature allows you to instantly connect with other Echo devices. If you have multiple Echo devices scattered throughout your home and all connected to the same Wi-Fi network, you can turn your speaker into an intercom. By enabling this feature on all devices and associated user accounts, you can broadcast messages, make announcements, or even sneak in on others.
To get started, you have to enable this feature on your Echo devices as well as on your user profile. For a more customized experience, you can create a household group through the Alexa app and manage multiple devices simultaneously.
How to use the Drop-in feature via the Alexa app:
- Open the Alexa app on your mobile device.
- Go to Communication and select the profile icon located in the upper right corner.
- Tap on your username and select Communication Settings.
- Enable the Drop-in feature. You can always turn it on and off.
- Next, go to Devices, located at the bottom right corner of your screen.
- Select the Echo & Alexa icon.
- Select the device you want to use for Drop-in.
- On the Device Settings screen, select Communication.
- Tap on Calling & Messaging to enable Drop-in and announcements for the selected device.
Option 2: Use the Reverb App
The Reverb app is a great way to access Alexa remotely, without having to be right beside the Echo speaker. Once you have installed the app, you only need to link your Amazon account and you’re all set.
Use voice commands and tell Alexa what to do – maybe you left home and forgot to turn off the lights? This app lets you take over and control all your Alexa-enabled devices.
Another plus point for Reverb is that you can download it for free and works for both Android and iOS users. If you don’t have access to your mobile device, you can simply use a laptop and access the web version.
The only drawback to using the Reverb app is that you cannot ask Alexa to play music. So, if you’re fine with that, it seems like a good alternative.
Option 3: Use someone else's Echo device to access yours
Alexa’s Guest Connect feature allows you to use another Echo device to access yours. Similarly, if you have guests coming over for dinner you can grant them access to do the same. Read more here
For this to work, the Guest Connect option must be enabled both on the Echo device you want to connect to and on your account. Also, the connection is established based on Bluetooth so make sure it is turned on.
Procedure from the App
You can easily enable Guest Connect from within the Alexa app. Go to Account Settings, select the Guest Connect feature, and tap Allow to get started. Based on your voice, Alexa will recognize your profile and will fill you in with the latest news or play your favorite music tracks.
However, when using this option, you will need to reconnect after 24 hours.
Option 4: Use the Alexa App
With the Alexa app, you can access, listen to and control your Alexa and Echo devices remotely – but only to stream audio content or set up alarms and reminders. From within the app, you can browse through your music library and play your favorite tunes or audiobooks, and set alarms or reminders on any of your Echo devices.
Procedure
To get started, open the Alexa app and select Music & Books from the main menu. Choose the track you wish to play and then simply select one of the available devices shown in the app. This way, you can remotely connect to one of your Echo devices and control the audio content to be played.
Reminders & Alarms
By using the Alexa app, you can also set up a reminder or alarm for later – even if you’re not at home. Open the Alexa app, go to Reminders & Alarms, and add as many alerts as you need. You can then select the Echo device you want to use.
Option 5: Use the Alexa Guard Feature
The Alexa Guard feature has been developed to protect and watch over your home when you’re away. If it detects suspicious sounds, it will instantly send you an alert on your mobile device.
The Alexa Guard can spot sounds such as breaking glass, smoke alarm detectors, or other unusual noises. You will get a recording on your Alexa app so you can interpret the sound and take action.
If you’re in doubt, you can use the Drop-in feature and connect to your Echo device so you can listen in on what’s going on.
Advantages
This feature also allows you to remotely control your connected smart lighting fixtures. You may want to turn on the lights when you’re away, making any potential intruders think you’re actually at home.
You can set up and enable the Alexa Guard feature through the Alexa app. Go to the Settings menu, choose Guard, and then follow the on-screen instructions to set up the sound detection and away lighting.
The Listen to Alexa Remotely Verdict
In conclusion, even if you’re always on the go, you can still be connected to and listen to Alexa remotely. Whether you want to play music, get the latest news, turn your smart lights on and off, or just drop in on your Echo devices to carefully listen to what’s going on at home, many apps and features allow you to do that.