Alexa is a voice assistant that can be used without an Echo device. You can use Alexa to control your home devices, such as your TV, music player, and thermostat. You can also use Alexa to order food or take orders from restaurants.
Sure, this isn’t the same experience as having an always-listening voice assistant at home. But it’s a convenient way to try out Alexa and use Alexa skills.
On iPhone, iPad, and Android
In the Alexa app, tap the blue Alexa icon on the bar at the bottom of your screen.
Note that the first time you activate Alexa in either app, you’ll be prompted to provide permission for Alexa to listen to your microphone and access your geographical location. After that, tapping the button immediately activates Alexa.
You don’t even need to say the Alexa part. After you tap the icon, Alexa will start listening. You can just say “Open Skyrim” or “Order batteries.”
Here are some more great Alexa skills you might want to try.
What About Alexa for Windows PCs?
Despite Microsoft’s announcement, there’s no way to say “Cortana, open Alexa” and use Alexa on your Windows PC yet. Some manufacturers are building Alexa software into their new PCs, but you can’t just download Alexa if it didn’t come built into your PC.
