There are three main players who make digital voice assistant apps. These are the Alexa app by Amazon, Google Home app by Google, and the Home app for Siri on iOS devices.
A digital voice assistant app can be used to control a range of smart home devices. You can use your voice with commands, or control the devices within the app settings. I rarely use voice commands, as I prefer to leave the microphone off.
Also, it’s best to change the default settings, otherwise, you might find your smart clock talking to itself in an empty room telling someone to go for a walk at 3 pm.
Let’s explore these digital voice assistants some more:
Alexa App for Alexa
The Alexa app is only available for iOS and Android devices. It’s ideal to use with Amazon Echo smart speakers, Echo Dot, Echo Dot with Clock, Echo Plus and Echo Studio. These devices can, of course, be purchased from Amazon.
Learn more about what you can do with Alexa: amazon.com/meetalexa
Google Home app for Google Assistant on the Google Home
The Google Home app promises a one-stop destination to manage your compatible home devices.
In 2016, the Google Cast app was renamed to the Google Home app. The app works with Nest mini, Nest Audio, Nest Hub, and Nest Hub Max along with all your Chromecast and Google Home devices. These can be purchased from the Google Store https://store.google.com/.
Using the Watch tab, you can discover trending and popular video content on your Chromecast-enabled apps like HBO Now, Netfilx, Hulu, YouTube, and Google Play Movies. The Discover tab lets you explore a library of 1000+ apps that work with Chromecast, as well as the latest offers, features, and tips. You can search for content across Chromecast-enabled apps inside the Google Home app – just look for the magnifying glass icon in the bottom right-hand corner.
Use the Google Home app to control and manage all your devices. Just Tap the Devices icon in the top right of the home screen to easily set up a new device, control playback or adjust Backdrop settings on your TV, and more.
Home app for Siri on the HomePod
The Home app is only available for iOS mobile devices, like the iPhone and iPad. You’ll need to set up your home hub to control your HomeKit accessories. Think HomePod, HomePod mini and Apple TV.
Find out more about how to control your home with Siri on the Apple website: https://support.apple.com/en-au/HT208280
These smart home accessories work with the Apple HomeKit: https://www.apple.com/au/ios/home/accessories/
Australian Retail Stores with Smart Home Devices
These major retail stores have a dedicated section to smart home devices:
- Bunnings smart home: https://www.bunnings.com.au/products/smart-home
- JB Hi-Fi smart home: https://www.jbhifi.com.au/collections/connected-home/
Please leave a comment and let us know how you use a digital voice assistant:
