Alexa is listening—and that’s a very good thing. Amazon’s new Alexa Guard for Echo devices can keep your home safe, detecting break-ins, fires and other alarming issues.
The free feature, which is already available on newer Alexa-enabled devices, will roll out across all Echo products starting this week. All you need to do is say, “Alexa, I’m leaving” as you stroll out the door and your Echo does the rest.
photo: Courtesy of Amazon
How does Alexa Guard work? After it’s turned on the feature monitors your home for specific sounds, such as breaking glass or a smoke alarm. If it ‘hears’ these sounds, the device sends you an alert and an audio recording. Along with the audio of the break-in, fire or other incident, Echo devices with cameras can also send a live video feed to your phone. Homeowners who also have an ADT or Ring alarm system get an added perk. Alexa Guard can also automatically set off the alarm too.
To set up Alexa Guard open the Alexa app on your phone. Tap the menu button and choose “Settings.” From the “Settings” menu, choose “Guard” and tap “Set up Guard.” Next, tap “Add” to add smoke detector and carbon monoxide detectors. Tap “Add” again to to detect the sound of breaking glass. You can also opt to activate smart lighting from the “Add” selector. Finish the set up by choosing “Confirm” and that’s it.
—Erica Loop
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