Speak2 Alexa Device and Basics

Learn the difference between your managed Speak2 Alexa compared to a personal, consumer Alexa

It is important to note that the Alexa device managed by Speak2 is not the same as an Alexa device you have set up at home. Your home Alexa is a consumer device, and it has your Amazon account connected to it, with a credit card and all of the associated consumer-level attributes.

The device we provide for your community is deployed to the Alexa Smart Properties (ASP) management platform and, specifically, the Alexa for Seniors program. Amazon is highly sensitive to security and privacy concerns, and the ASP platform provides a level of privacy that residents and their families can be comfortable with.

What are the differences between a personal/consumer and community/managed Alexa device?

Alexa Basics

How do I mute the device? 

If Alexa doesn't answer you, she most likely is muted.

There will be a red line at the bottom of the screen.

To mute or unmute the device, click the button on the top.

 

 Alexa isn't ringing or saying Announcements. Is Alexa on Do Not Disturb?

Do Not Disturb means Alexa will not ring or say anything out loud unless asked.

You will see a purple line here.

Say, "Alexa, turn on/off Do Not Disturb" or swipe down and press the DND button. 

How do I set a reminder on Alexa? 

Say, "Alexa, set a reminder" she will ask what for, time and if you'd like to repeat it. When the reminder goes off, she will ring. You can say, "Alexa, stop" to end the reminder, "Alexa, snooze" to extend the reminder for 10 minutes, or tap on the screen to dismiss the reminder. 

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How do I set an alarm on Alexa?

Say "Alexa, set an alarm" she will ask what time. 

When the alarm goes off, she will ring.

You can say, "Alexa, stop" to end the alarm or "Alexa, snooze" to extend the alarm for 10 minutes, or tap on the screen to dismiss the alarm. 

Click here to watch how to set a repeating reminder. 

How does I see what alarms or reminders are on Alexa? 

You can ask, "Alexa, what are my reminders/alarms?" 

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Watch how to set a reminder on Alexa

How do I know Alexa is listening? 

You will see a blue light at the bottom of the Alexa.

Once you say the wake word, Alexa will light up blue and will listen for about 7-8 seconds.

 

 

Music on Alexa

Alexa can play any radio, AM/FM, genre or playlist on iHeart Radio. Alexa cannot play a specific song because that requires a paid music service like Spotify or Apple.

If she is asked to play a specific song, she may play that along with similar artists and songs. Just like a radio.

You can find a Resident cheat sheet here. 

News on Alexa

Alexa can play news. She can say it out loud or play video on an Alexa show. Alexa can play any news stations, CNN, ABC, CBS, Fox or ESPN.

Watch Music, News, and Weather on Alexa