Tag: Amazon Alexa

  • Philips Hue Alexa Integration Issue Confirmed by Signify

    Philips Hue Alexa Integration Issue Confirmed by Signify

    Key Takeaways

    1. Philips Hue is experiencing integration issues with Amazon Alexa, affecting voice command functionality for smart home devices.
    2. Many users report that some Philips Hue devices are unresponsive or have limited control, with no error messages provided.
    3. Signify, the company behind Philips Hue, has acknowledged the problem but claims it affects only a “small number” of customers.
    4. The company is working with Amazon to resolve the issue, but no timeline for a fix has been provided.
    5. Affected users are encouraged to contact Philips Hue customer support for assistance, and a Philips Hue Bridge v2 is recommended, though some users report functioning without it.

    Philips Hue has acknowledged an issue related to its integration with Amazon Alexa. This integration is intended to let users manage their smart home devices using voice commands from Amazon Alexa. For instance, you can remotely turn lights on or off, or modify the brightness or color of bulbs like the White and Color Ambiance E26 (currently priced at $43.99 on Amazon).

    Users Report Problems

    Many users have been reporting difficulties with the Philips Hue Alexa Skill for a while now. Some Philips Hue devices are completely unresponsive, while others can be controlled but with some limitations. This issue seems to have come out of nowhere, without any error messages appearing in the Alexa application or on devices that support Alexa. Furthermore, users have noted that reconnecting Philips Hue with Alexa does not resolve the problem.

    Company Acknowledgment

    A recent article by Golem.de reveals that Signify, the firm that oversees Philips Hue, has confirmed that the link between Philips Hue smart products and Alexa is indeed malfunctioning in certain situations. They assert that only a “small number” of customers are experiencing this issue, though they did not provide any specific figures. Reportedly, the company has indicated it is collaborating with Amazon to find a solution. However, there is no timeline available for when users might expect a resolution.

    Customer Support Options

    If you are one of the customers facing this issue, it is advisable to reach out to the Philips Hue customer service department. It’s also important to mention that while Amazon recommends having a Philips Hue Bridge v2 to utilize this skill, many users say they can still operate Alexa without needing the hub.

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  • Amazon’s Alexa Adds Monthly Subscription Fee for Prime Members

    Amazon’s Alexa Adds Monthly Subscription Fee for Prime Members

    Amazon is preparing to revamp Alexa, though accessing its most advanced features may come with a price tag. Reports indicate a potential $5 to $10 monthly subscription fee in addition to a Prime membership to unlock the AI-enhanced Alexa. This upgraded assistant is slated for release in August 2024 and promises several enhancements.

    Enhanced Capabilities

    The new advanced Alexa is expected to offer personalized advice for activities like shopping or art. The need to say “Alexa” repeatedly might be eliminated. The updated version could process and complete multiple requests simultaneously, such as drafting an email and ordering takeout at the same time. It might even adapt to user habits, customizing routines like starting the coffee maker when the alarm sounds. Additionally, this sophisticated Alexa is anticipated to provide nuanced shopping recommendations.

    Free Tier Still Available

    Despite these changes, Amazon will not completely phase out the free tier. A basic version of Alexa with new generative AI features will remain accessible. This strategy appears to be a response to the escalating competition in the AI assistant market, with rivals like Google, Microsoft, OpenAI, and Apple's improved Siri all vying for user engagement. Alexa’s future strategy seems to focus on a dual approach: maintaining a free basic service while introducing a premium tier with advanced functionalities.

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  • Redmi Watch 4 Update Adds Voice Assistant Support

    Redmi Watch 4 Update Adds Voice Assistant Support

    Xiaomi’s Redmi Watch 4, which was launched earlier this year, has received an update that introduces support for the Amazon Alexa voice assistant. This recent update, identified as version 2.2.80, was initially highlighted by a member on the Xiaomi subreddit.

    Redmi Watch 4 Update Introduces Amazon Alexa Integration

    The integration of Alexa potentially offers Redmi Watch 4 users the capability to execute various tasks using voice commands. This includes setting timers, alarms, controlling compatible smart home devices, creating reminders, and more.

    Regional Restrictions on Alexa Support for Redmi Watch 4

    Discussions on Reddit indicate that Alexa support on the Redmi Watch 4 might have limitations based on specific regions. A user based in the USA reported that despite receiving the update, the Alexa feature remained inaccessible, accompanied by a message indicating "not available in your region."

    How to Test Alexa Support on Redmi Watch 4

    To verify if Alexa functions on your Redmi Watch 4, update the device's software and attempt to utilize voice commands. If you encounter difficulties accessing the feature, it is likely that Alexa is currently not supported in your area.

    Redmi Watch 4 Specifications

    The Redmi Watch 4 boasts an aluminum alloy frame, complemented by a stainless steel crown and a quick-release strap for user convenience. It sports a 1.97-inch rectangular AMOLED display with an LTPS 5Hz screen that offers a refresh rate of 60Hz and a peak brightness of 600 nits.

    In terms of health monitoring, the watch features a 4-channel PPG sensor for heart rate and blood oxygen measurement, alongside an accelerometer, gyroscope, and GPS for tracking over 150 sports activities. Additionally, it includes standard smartwatch functions like sleep monitoring, stress tracking, weather updates, a stopwatch, app notifications, microphone, speaker for Bluetooth calling, and a water resistance rating of 5 ATM.

    The device is powered by a 470mAh battery, providing up to 20 days of battery life under typical usage scenarios.

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