We’ve written plenty on Amazon Echo and how updates to Alexa have greatly improved the experience. You can even add skills by saying, “Alexa enable blank skill.”
Amazon has also continued to open up its API allowing more companies to partner up meaning you get to use more smart home devices with Alexa.
How to add skills manually: Amazon Echo tips and tricks
That means the list of Skills has been steadily growing as well and you can do just about anything with Alexa as a guide. Examples include exercises like pilates or push ups to little games like trivia or for the adults only crowd, drinking games.
If you’re looking to level up your Alexa, read on for the best Amazon Echo skills we’ve tried out.
Amazon Echo skills for connected tech
Nest
You can tell Alexa to turn up or down the thermostat simply by downloading this skill. It’s still a work in progress as Alexa can’t tell you the current temperature, but it’s still nice not having to get up to mess with the settings.
LifX
Probably one of nicer, and more affordable smart lightbulbs, LifX’s line doesn’t need a hub to use with Alexa – it only needs the skill downloaded, and of course, your voice to tell Alexa to turn on and off the bulb.
Samsung SmartThings
You’ll need a hub and the compatible devices for this one to work but it syncs up really well making Alexa the perfect smart home controller.
August Smart Lock
If you have an August Lock and Connect on hand, and installed, just head to the Skills in your Alexa app and download August Home. Link up the accounts and you should be set to control your locks with the sound of your voice.
Pairing Fitbit
Simply head to your skills and sync up your Fitbit by enabling it to share information. After that, preface your questions by saying, “Alexa, ask Fitbit…” about your sleep, steps, calories, stairs climbed and more. Here’s hoping more wearables join this train soon.
Amazon Echo exercise and health skills
7-minute workout
This one comes with a timer and cycles between different reps for quick exercise bursts. The latest version also keeps track of your exercises and resumes where you’ve left off. If you’re not sure about what to do, the companion app also provides images and directions for the various reps.
Push Up Century Club
Ever want to increase your ability to do push ups? Try the Push Up Century Club skill with Alexa. Based on your current level, Alexa will determine which set of reps you should start with. Then she’ll guide you through a workout complete with 30-second breaks in between.
ALOP Pilates
This skill has Alexa guiding you through a beginner’s pilates class where you’ll just need the Echo and a mat. From there, it will take about 20-30 minutes to complete.
1-minute Mindfulness
For those who want to meditate and a clear mind, try this skill on for size. It’s really just relaxing sounds that play for a minute, but hey, maybe that’s all you need to recharge.
Amazon Echo game skills
Jeopardy J6
Every day, you can ask Alexa to play this game and she’ll change up the categories. Though there are only six questions asked, it’s still a fun little game to play.
Bingo
You’ll need to download bingo cards for this game if you don’t already have them, but having Alexa on hand to call out numbers is quite useful. Everyone can participate and have fun.
Drinkmaster
Again, for the older crowd, Drinkmaster is a fun skill for parties. There are three games you can play: Circle Of Death, Never Have I Ever and Most Likely. To start simply say “Alexa Start DrinkMaster” Alexa will walk you through options.
All other Amazon Echo skills
Uber/Lyft
Sync your Uber and/or Lyft account through the Amazon Alexa app to allow access. From there, you can ask Alexa to use the rideshare app. Just make sure your location is right so the driver can find you. You can also ask Alexa for arrival statuses, cancel ride requests and for Lyft, even rate drivers.
