A prominent tech pundit named M.G. Siegler recently wrote about how he believes the Apple TV should have become a smart-home hub: a combination Wi-Fi router, smart speaker, video streaming device, and game console all-in-one. While I can see the appeal, I also see problems that would keep it from becoming a hit product. Apple recently …
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The Sonos One is an excellent-sounding smart speaker that has the Amazon Alexa digital assistant built in. You just speak to it, and Alexa does what you ask her to do, such as playing your favorite music. This post features clearly written step-by-step instructions that explain how to get it working.
The long-awaited ability to control Sonos with an Amazon Echo is here! I’ve written about how to connect these devices using cables, but this new skill lets you do it wirelessly. This post explains how to get it running…
The All-New Echo (2nd Generation), Echo Plus, and Echo Spot from Amazon each have an audio output, which makes them easy to directly connect to some Sonos speakers and components. This post clearly explains how to set this up and get it running.
A TP-Link Smart Plug turns a regular AC outlet into something you can control from anywhere using mobile device, or by using your voice (if you also have an Amazon Echo). It’s more than just fun to say “Alexa, turn on the living room lights.” This is a useful utility that you won’t want to give up. Clearly …
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The Amazon Dash Wand with Alexa is a brand new, inexpensive battery-powered shopping and information device for the home. It’s similar, in a way, to the popular Amazon Echo smart speakers, but it’s different in lots of ways, too. Amazon Echo devices are primarily used to listen to music, but, the new Dash Wand isn’t …
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I own the first generation Amazon Echo Dot, and I’ve been using it since May 2016, and almost the entire time it’s been plugged into my Sonos PLAY:5 speaker. With some trial and error, I’ve cobbled together five solid tips for getting the most out of using it with Sonos. The Dot I own is essentially the …
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If you recently decided to try the Amazon Music Unlimited plan for the Amazon Echo and your 30-day free trial is coming to an end, or if you’ve already started a paid subscription, clearly written instructions for how to cancel are provided below.
When Steve Jobs introduced the original iPhone in 2007, he unveiled several major innovations — but the multitouch interface was by far the most important. It redefined the possibilities of mobile tech. Seven years later, Amazon debuted a product that may have an equally impressive input innovation. However, instead of being a sleek handheld gadget, it was a stark, voice-activated speaker. Initially, the …
Continue reading “Amazon aims for domination with the 2nd Gen Echo Dot”
