4 easy things you should try with your smart speaker: Video tutorial
Smart speakers can be a useful companion in your home. The voice-controlled devices can answer random questions, set multiple timers as you cook and play your favorite podcasts. Some even have generative artificial intelligence built in to take its abilities even further.
While those features are useful, there are some things your Google Home and Amazon Alexa devices can do that you might not even think to ask. It's worth noting Alexa users may need to enable the skill on the device beforehand.
However you choose to use your devices, it’s always a good idea to review their privacy settings and check that your information is handled in a way you're comfortable with.
Watch this video for four unexpected ways you can use your smart speaker.
Find my phone
If you can't find where you placed your phone, ask Google!
“Hey Google, find my phone” will cause your device to chime for about 30 seconds. If you have multiple devices linked, you will need to specify which device you want it to locate.
This feature works with iPhones, Androids, tablets and some accessories, like Pixel Buds, but they do need to be linked to your account for the speaker to locate it.
How to play the radio on your smart speaker
The influx of technology has also provided us with many different ways to consume audio throughout our day. If you enjoy tuning into terrestrial radio, you can play your favorite station on your smart speaker. It can tune into AM and FM stations in your area and across the country, just ask your speaker to play using the station’s name, frequency or call letters.
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How to use Alexa, Google Home as an intercom
If you need to relay a message to someone in your home but they’re not within earshot, ask your speaker to help deliver the memo. Amazon Alexa and Google Home devices can act as an intercom when you have multiple devices set up in your home.
You can say, “Hey Google, announce it’s time to go” or “Alexa, drop in on living room.” The Google speaker will make an announcement, while the Alexa device will allow you to speak directly through the speaker.
Use your smart speaker to help you sleep
If you or your kids prefer to drift off to sleep accompanied by the sounds of rain, waves or white noise, ask your speaker to play you off. Follow that request with one for a sleep timer, and you’ll be dreaming away in no time!