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Five clever things you can do with a smart speaker
04/08/2025
Smart speakers are a great introduction to artificial intelligence (AI). They still function as typical speakers, but the AI capabilities open up a world of possibilities. From controlling other smart home devices to giving you weather and traffic updates, smart speakers can make your life easier with a simple voice command. Here are five cool things you can do with your smart speaker.
1. Keep your day on track
Smart speakers can be programmed to respond to voice commands with different information, so you can start your day off with a weather update and a review of your calendar events. Ask your smart speaker to give you traffic updates so you know what to expect on your morning commute. Set timers and alarms — even ones that wake you up with music — simply by telling your speaker when to set the alert.
2. Ask random questions
Whether you need to settle a lighthearted family argument or are just curious about a random fact, you can ask your smart speaker for the answer. The technology can draw on web searches to answer questions on countless topics, and some can even tell you jokes and sing songs. To entertain your family and friends, program your speaker to respond with a funny phrase when you say a certain voice command.
3. Create a shopping list and make purchases
Many users find it convenient to keep a smart speaker near the kitchen, especially because you can add items to your to-do and shopping lists with a simple voice command. Connect your speaker with your favorite productivity app to see your lists on your smartphone. If heading outside isn't an option, some speakers allow you to buy online products, reorder items or cancel orders just by saying it out loud.
4. Use the device as an intercom
No more running around the house trying to gather your family for dinner. By placing multiple smart speakers around your home, you can treat the devices like a home intercom system and broadcast your voice throughout the house. Some speakers allow you to access this feature through a connected app, so you don't even need to be home to check in on your family.
5. Control your smart home
Add more smart gadgets to your home to control simple tasks with your voice. By giving names to each appliance and smart device, you can ask your smart speaker to "turn on the reading lamp" or "change the thermostat to 70 degrees." Smart TVs, locks, security cameras, thermostats, lighting and more can all be connected and controlled through the speaker in your automated smart home.
Amazon, Google, Apple and more brands offer smart speakers with different voice assistance platforms. Once you choose the perfect speaker for your home, set aside a few days to discover all the cool things your new gadget can do.
