Meet Alexa, Your Personal Smart Home Assistant

Do you remember Rosie the robot from The Jetsons? This quirky, robotic maid assisted the futuristic family in doing any task they needed, like washing the dishes, making home repairs, and feeding the dog. We’ve also seen intelligent computer assistants in Star Trek, Back to the Future, and Star Wars. With so many portrayals of artificial intelligence in art and entertainment, you would think it’s about time we had something like Rosie with us. And the incredible news is we are getting closer and closer to that reality every day. With our smart home installations, we’ve been able to use our integrated systems to perform all kinds of cool tasks, like arming the security system and turning off the lights. But we haven’t been able to talk to our smart home like a personal assistant. That is until now. Last year, Amazon created Alexa, a voice control software that runs on the smart speakers called the Echo, the Dot, and the Tap. Keep reading to discover how you can use Alexa in your Indianapolis, IN home. 

SEE ALSO: Control4 Offers Smart Home Controls for Everyone

Who is Alexa?

Alexa is kind of like the new and improved Siri. Siri is the personal voice control assistant that was developed by the team at Apple. You can ask your iPhone for answers to random facts, like who the first president of the United States was, or how to navigate to the nearest pizza place, and it would answer you. However, Alexa is different in that it’s only used in the home and is focused on controlling the various features of every space, such as your music, the lights, or the thermostat. Say, “Alexa, play Katy Perry,” and it will turn on her album. Previously seen as a standalone product for DIY-type home automation gadgets, now Alexa can be integrated into sophisticated total home automation systems, like our partner Control4.

What can it do?

On its own, Alexa can already do a lot of really cool things, but add it to your Control4 smart home and your options expand even further. Here’s a quick overview of the types of commands you can say to Alexa and she’ll either do it, or we’ll convey it to your home control system!

Say…

• Alexa, dim the kitchen lights to 60%.
• Alexa, turn on Movie scene.
• Alexa, give me the traffic report.
• Alexa, shuffle my favorites playlist.
• Alexa, order a pizza from Domino’s.
• Alexa, what’s on my calendar today?
• Alexa, lock the front door.

How do I get Alexa?

All you have to do is call us or fill out this online form, and we’ll come to your home and install Alexa. And don’t forget that we have many options for controls, including smart remotes, in-wall keypads, mobile apps, and even occupancy/vacancy sensors. You can also stop by our showroom and take Alexa for a test run. Though she can’t do your dishes, she’ll definitely add some fun and flair to your home.