10 Alexa Skills That Are Actually Useful and Fun
Take your Alexa to the next level
Amazon Echo devices are already pretty smart and do a ton of cool things right out-of-the-box, but you can also add extra features using the Alexa Skills library. This skills library is a library of mini-apps that connect to 3rd party apps and unleash a wide range of new features. Sounds right? The problem is, most of these ‘skills’ are neither useful nor fun. This article cuts through the noise and gives you 10 Alexa skills that are both useful and fun.
1. 7-Minute Workout
One of the more overwhelming parts of getting in shape is just finding the time to workout. The 7-minute workout solves this problem. Active a short, guided workout with the single voice command “Start a 7-minute workout”. A fun and easy way to kick-start your new workout routine.
2. Headspace: Guided Meditation
There is so many studies now showing the health benefits of mediation that it is no longer even debated. Meditation is really very good for you. Period. However, it’s not easy for everyone to do meditation on their own, that is why meditation classes and meditation retreates exist. Now with the help of headspace, Alex will will you mediate at home, talking you through the steps of how to relax, focus and center yourself.
3. AllRecipes
I was scepctial at first, but spprisingly having speakers walk you through a recepie while you are cooking is actually super helpful. I think it’s one of those things you have to try yourself to belive. Try it!
4. OurGroceries
This useful app keeps track off all the food you have in your pantry. You remave items as you use them and they automatically get added to your shopping list. This useful app also work with AllReceipes noted above. Never be stuck in the supermarket wondering is you have milk in the fridge, this nifty little app will tell you.
5. Mixologist
If you are like me and love cocktails, but forever forgetting the ingredients, this Mixologist can help. You can find cocktails by name, or (super genious) it can even find cocktails based on the ingredients that you have! There is also a feature that will give you a random drink to make, helping you discover new cocktails you might never have tried or even heard of before! It’s a fantastic was to improve your mixology skills without much effort.
6. Uber/Lyftt
Both Lyftt and Uber now allow you to book a ride without ever picking up your phone. You can even leave the driver a review using Alexa. You can even specify if you want a premium or regular ride.
7. Ask My Buddy
The name of this skill can be misleading, but don't let this put you off, this Alexa skill could save your life! This skills for for emergency messages and lets you call or text a specific person when you need help, with the voice command “Alexa, ask my buddy to send help”. This could be useful for elderly relatives who fall and connect reach the phone, or for a number of other purposes.
8. Hue/LIFX
One of the best use cases for a Amazon Eco is the ability to turn your home into a ‘smart home’. This skills requires you to have Hue/LIFX light fittings but oh it is worth it! You can set the brightness levels, changes colors to suit your mood and of course, turn the lights on or off with you have to come out from under your comfy bedding. Once you start using Alexa to control you lighting, it is hard to go back to anything else.
9. Sleep and Relaxation Sounds
There is already a variety of Sleep and Relaxation Sounds within your Spotify or Amazon music account, however seems services require you to pay. If you don’t want to pay for Amazon Music or Spotify, you can still access a large library of ambient noises on command for free using this skill. My go-to favourite sleep sounds are rainfall, cicadas and train rides.
10. Jeopardy!
Thius Alexa skills lets you play along with Jeopardy, live! Every weekday, you can join in on the episode, and take part in the most popular game show in the history of television.
