By CEDIA - Wed, Aug 28, 2024 - Blog
As a nearly $30 billion industry, home automation technology continues to gather pace. The rise of smart home devices has made integration simpler than ever, using basic voice commands for multiple functions.
One of the most popular voice assistants is the Amazon Alexa. In 2023, some 500 million Alexa devices were sold. The Amazon Echo range can connect to anything from speakers to light bulbs and smart thermostats – giving you hands-free autonomy for easy living.
You can connect your Echo device to various gadgets from Ring doorbells to smart plugs. To get started, you’ll need to buy a device such as the Echo Dot and download the Amazon Alexa App.
The Alexa smart home app offers a simple user interface that lets you discover home appliances via Bluetooth or WiFi. Once you’ve connected to the internet and set up your device, use Alexa to find others in the Devices tab. Then select your brand and follow the instructions.
Smart home automation comes easily thanks to Alexa’s IoT-connected hub. You can discover devices and connect all compatible tech via the mobile app, including:
If your appliances are connected to WiFi or Bluetooth, they should be discoverable within the Alexa App. Open your app, tap ‘Devices’, select the ‘+’ icon and tap ‘Add Device’. Then you can choose your brand and connect.
Once you’re connected, you’ll be able to make changes via voice control. You can also change the ‘wake’ word (‘Alexa’ is the default) and customise the Alexa voice. It’s even possible to train it to recognize your voice.
If you wish, you can set up notifications in your Amazon account. For example, enhance your home security with an alert every time somebody rings a video doorbell or opens a smart lock.
Amazon takes your smart home system one step further with Alexa routines. This handy home assistant groups daily tasks to set up ‘routines’. For example, you may have a morning routine which involves automatically turning on lights and playing music.
Others may be prompted by tools like motion sensors. You can integrate products like Zigbee for security, or even to trigger functions like lighting – such as if you enter the living room.
Alexa developers have even created Custom Skills, which tailors answers based on users’ preferences. For example, you may ask for your daily horoscope and program the device to know your star sign. This is great for daily tasks like finding new recipes to cook or discover exercise routines.
While these products have been designed to offer simple DIY integration, you’ll get the best experience when you choose a professional installer. An integrator like a CEDIA-certified expert will help you overcome common problems with smart devices.
From Apple to Google Home, certified installers are completely brand-agnostic. This means they won’t push a particular product on you, but rather recommend the best one to integrate with your home assistants. They also offer advanced technical knowledge to prevent cyber security risks.
Your next home installation might be more involved than plug and play. An integrator will work with your living space to ensure your products don’t disrupt the aesthetic or cause construction issues. Likewise, they’ll check all connections to prevent downtime.
Our accredited installers are on-hand to answer any questions once you’ve installed your device. From anything as minor as Alexa Skills to fixing Bluetooth connections, we’ll help you get online and stay online. Control your home 24/7 without interruptions.