Automation with Alexa

[HA Dave]

A 12 year old kid told my wife about this app. Called "Reverb for Amazon Alexa". It supposedly allows the user to take the echo/dot Alexa functionality (and voice) around with the iPhone. Sounds like we're getting close to the [halo] virtual companion. It's happening fast.

[Tuicemen]

Or how about Alexa on your watch?
https://www.amazon.com/Martian-mVoice-Smartwatches-Amazon-Alexa/dp/B01MDLTZJI/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1484513886&sr=8-6&keywords=smartwatch+with+alexa

[HA Dave]

Or how about Alexa on your watch?
https://www.amazon.com/Martian-mVoice-Smartwatches-Amazon-Alexa/dp/B01MDLTZJI/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1484513886&sr=8-6&keywords=smartwatch+with+alexa

I like that!

[Tuicemen]

I couldn't believe the number of manufactures actually having these Alexa compatible watches.

[Tuicemen]

I read a new wake word is coming with the next alexa update.
some have already seen this, I haven't so I guess I've yet to get the update.
http://lovemyecho.com/2017/01/15/11617-stupid-alexa-tricks/

[HA Dave]

I read a new wake word is coming with the next alexa update.
http://lovemyecho.com/2017/01/15/11617-stupid-alexa-tricks/

Mine hasn't updated yet either. So apparently the update isn't slowed down by a modification allowing for a Canadian accent... hay. I am looking forward to the "computer" wake word. That has been my "attention phrase" for several years now. And... the correct way to address a computer since 1966 (or was it 2260).

[Tuicemen]

Nor does it appear to be IP related. One user reported out of 4 Dots only one got the update so far.

[Tuicemen]

My Dot shows a Device software version of: 564196920
Apparently the version 564197320 is what has the new wake word.
The Version for the echo is different, 4812 is the version for it that includes the new wake word.

[Tuicemen]

Yesterday we switched our Phone line to cable.
We have a phone that announces CID and I've always had this available on my PC (first program I ever created provided this)
We very rarely get phone calls with the kids now gone so I forgot about this running on my PC.
Last night the Phone rang and My dot announced Phone Call from .....!
My wife flipped out "Hey how does she know who's calling?" she asked.

[dave w]

It supposedly allows the user to take the echo/dot Alexa functionality (and voice) around with the iPhone. Sounds like we're getting close to the [halo] virtual companion. It's happening fast.

How is that different from Siri?

[dhouston]

I received my BlackBean. While I appreciate their desire to save the forests, these super-miniature user manuals are truly a PITA.

The next problem is to figure out how to get at its innards which may require sawing off the top. If I can add a 310MHz RF transmitter, it could make for a powerful but inexpensive remote.

[HA Dave]

It supposedly allows the user to take the echo/dot Alexa functionality (and voice) around with the iPhone. Sounds like we're getting close to the [halo] virtual companion. It's happening fast.

How is that different from Siri?

Siri... was designed around a screen based technology. So you ask Siri a question... and you're often provided with a Web Site/Page or link. But Alexa is "all voice all the time" and replies to questions in a conversational way... much like a companion would.

Not a world of difference. And some may prefer Siri. I really don't mind switching "voice assistants" too much. But the idea of having the same voice helping, answering, always being there day and night... for decades... may appeal to some too.

[dhouston]

I received my BlackBean...The next problem is to figure out how to get at its innards which may require sawing off the top. If I can add a 310MHz RF transmitter, it could make for a powerful but inexpensive remote.

I haven't been able to disassemble the BlackBean so I don't think it will be practical (for any but diehard DIYers) to add an RF transmitter to it. Given that Broadlink Support told me their next product (RM-Pro3) will support 310MHz, I'll wait to see that.

[Tuicemen]

Sonoff released video of  Alexa control https://youtu.be/WzfgFl70Ee0 
Still on track for end off Chinese New Year (Feb. or Mar.) release. 

[dhouston]

How many clouds between the Dot and the lamp?