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You can also make phone calls with Alexa. However, you first need to set up Amazon Echo or Echo Dot. We’ll show you how to do this in this article.
Setting up Alexa for phone calls
To make phone calls with Alexa, you need the latest version of the Alexa app. Make sure that both the app and your Echo device are running the latest software to be able to use new features such as Skype calls, Vodafone OneNumber, or emergency contacts. We explain how to update your Alexa in another practical tip.
- Once the update is installed, a pop-up will appear informing you that you can now use the phone function.
- Start the app and tap the speech bubble icon. An installation process will begin, which the app will guide you through.
- At the end of this process, you will need to verify your phone number. Amazon will send you a code via text message, which you will then need to enter.
- Once this is complete, the app will ask to import your contacts from your smartphone. You must agree to this. This allows Amazon to check which of your contacts also have the Alexa app installed and use Amazon Echo.
- You can now also store emergency contacts in the Alexa app, which you can quickly reach via voice command. In addition, contacts can be managed manually and individual devices can be given access to Drop In and calls.
- In the app settings, you can then activate the “Drop In” function under “General.” Here, you can also specify who can call you.
- For example, if you select “Only my household,” you can use other Echos and Echo Dots in your household as a home intercom system.
- If you select “On” instead, you can also make calls to other contacts in your list, provided they also use the feature.
Comparison of call options
Alexa now offers different types of calls, which vary in their capabilities and requirements.
- With Alexa-to-Alexa calls, conversations are conducted free of charge via Wi-Fi. Both contacts must use an Echo device or the Alexa app.
- The Drop In feature is ideal as an intercom, as conversations are opened immediately without the recipient having to answer the call. Drop In is limited to approved devices and household members.
- For landline calls, the Echo Connect device was originally required. However, this adapter is no longer sold. In Germany, Vodafone offers an alternative via OneNumber, which allows voice calls to be made via your personal mobile number.
- Mobile phone calls via Alexa are only possible if both parties have an Echo or the Alexa app. These are not traditional cell phone numbers, but Internet-based connections.
- A new feature is the integration of Skype, which allows you to link your Microsoft account to the Alexa app. This allows you to call contacts directly via Skype.
- For video calls, you need a device with a camera and screen—for example, an Echo Show, Echo Spot, or second-generation Fire TV Cube.
Making calls with Alexa – a guide
If you want to make a call, start the call with the command “Alexa, call (name of contact).” Certain requirements must be met for this to work.
- You can only call a mobile contact via Alexa if the recipient also has an Echo or Echo Dot. They must also use the Alexa app.
- To call via Skype, say: “Alexa, call (name of contact) on Skype.” Vodafone OneNumber customers can send and receive calls via their own mobile number without using their phone.
- This is not the case when calling a landline number. You can also make these calls even if the person you are calling does not have an Echo. The Alexa app is also not required for these calls.
- When a call comes in, Alexa signals this with a green light ring and a ringtone. On Echo devices with a screen, you will also see the caller’s name or profile picture.
- Once you have set up Alexa for telephony, you can start a video call with the command “Alexa, video call (name of contact).”
- If you don’t want to make a call but send a message instead, you can do that too. You can send both text and voice messages.
- The corresponding commands are “Alexa, send a message to (name of contact)” or “Alexa, send a voice message to (name of contact)”.
- When you receive a text or voice message, the assistant signals this with the color ring: Alexa lights up yellow.
