Amazon Echo network-connected speaker and Alexa virtual assistant has been updated with the ability to make and receive commands through If This Then That (IFTTT). The new Amazon Alexa IFTTT Channel allows users to set new commands or “recipes” for the device to follow, expanding its functionality to work with a large number of well-known online services.
For the most part, the recipes associated with Echo are pretty standard fare, but brings it closer to the capabilities of Siri and Google Now. For example, creating a shopping list with Alexa could also add it to the iOS Reminders app, Google Docs, Evernote, and other services, or have it emailed to the user. A few of the current recipes also spill into smart home territory, with Alexa able to turn the lights on and off or change the temperature on a Nest thermostat, among other connected devices.
Users will need to sign up for IFTTT, download the iOS or Android mobile apps, and connect their Amazon account to it, before being able to use Echo’s assistant to interact with other apps. Amazon is still only selling the Echo device to customers by invitation only, with the cylindrical speaker priced at $200, or $150 for Prime members.
