5 Features That Make Amazon Echo More Useful

People have had Amazon Echo devices in their homes for years. Checking the weather, playing music, and setting the occasional timer are the main functions. Then many people spend some time in the Alexa app to see what else these devices can do. They have a few Echo Dots, an Echo Show, and an Echo Hub, along with a Ring security system, a myQ smart garage door, and a Ring camera doorbell. Turns out we've only scratched the surface. These five features change everything.

 

Control each room's temperature with built-in sensors

How temperature sensors reduce electricity bills by 10%

 

Amazon has added temperature and humidity sensors to the new Echo and Echo Dot (5th generation). You can link your Amazon Smart Thermostat to your Amazon Smart Thermostat in the Alexa app. There's a sensor in each bedroom, two in the basement, and one in the living room. Instead of relying on a single thermostat in the hallway, you can now collect temperature data from every corner of your home.

Setup is simple through the Alexa app. Each Echo device with a sensor becomes a monitoring point, feeding data to the smart thermostat. The system learns patterns over time.

Instant security alerts for doors and windows

Never miss an open door again

 

Set up routines with Ring contact sensors. Whenever a door or window opens anywhere in your home, Alexa will announce which door through your Echo devices and display it on the Echo Hub screen, which is connected via PoE.

You can customize notifications for different doors and windows. Set them to only trigger at certain times or when you're home instead of away. You'll get clear, immediate notifications instead of having to constantly check your security app.

Whisper mode for nighttime use

Control the house without waking anyone

 

Turns out Alexa has a built-in Whisper Mode. Say 'Alexa, turn on Whisper Mode,' or flip the switch in Voice Responses settings. The system uses a neural network to recognize your whispers and adjust its tone accordingly.

You need to get closer to the device than usual. Whispers don't travel very far, especially when there's background noise. However, within a few meters, it works fine.

House-wide announcements and reminders

No more screaming around the house

 

Announcements broadcasts to all Echo devices at once. It can be used to call for dinner, remind people when it's time to leave, and let people know there's a package on the porch. It's much more effective than shouting and hoping someone two floors up hears you.

All Echo devices in the home now essentially act as an intercom, no wires and installation required — just instant communication with anyone at home.

Calculate in the kitchen without touching the phone

The kitchen's new best friend

Hands-free calculations may not sound exciting, but they're now a necessity in the kitchen. When cooking with dirty or wet hands, you can ask, "Alexa, what's 4 liters to cups?" No need to stop, wash your hands, and then grab your phone.

This feature is useful outside the kitchen, too. In the garage or workshop, you can use your Echo device for quick unit conversions during home improvement projects and basic calculations. The hands-free feature makes this practical. You can get answers while you continue your work.