Jill Schmidt
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Jill Schmidt is a voice and smart home technology enthusiast. She created the Facebook group, Amazon Alexa and Smart Home Tips, Deals, News, and How-to's in 2017 and enjoys sharing with and learning from a community of individuals who contribute their technical expertise, insight, and inspiration. Jill is a regular contributor to Alexa-focused questions and answers on Quora.

How to Update the Software on Alexa Devices
Although your Alexa-enabled devices will typically update on their own when connected to WiFi, you may occasionally find that your device is missing new skills and features. If you have a voice-only Alexa device (no screen) such as an Echo…
5 Ways Amazon Alexa Can Help Seniors

[responsivevoice_button] Although Amazon was not targeting elderly or disabled adults with the creation of the Echo device, one of the most promising aspects of the Echo’s assistive technology is its ability to offer easily accessible information and services to consumers who…

Buff Up on History with the Time Machine Skill for Alexa
Catch top NY Times newspaper headlines from a random year in history (going back to 1851) with the sweet and simple Time Machine Alexa skill. Enable the skill and say, "Alexa, open Time Machine" to start your journey to the…
Alexa Developer Top Feature Requests

Offering developers the ability to add an Alexa skill to an Alexa routine was the most-voted on developer request submitted to Amazon — and a request that has since been granted by Amazon’s Alexa team. Current top requests include the…

Score Special Deals with the Best Buy Alexa Skill

Best Buy is offering periodic voice-only deals that you can only score with your smart speaker. Recent deals include a $5 (shipping included) Amazon smart plug. You won’t find these deals on BestBuy.com or in stores. Get voice-only deals by asking Alexa…

How to Listen to Bird Sounds with Alexa

If you’ve ever wondered what the call of a bald eagle or a blue jay sounds like, check out the “Bird Songs” Alexa skill. Enable the skill and say, “Alexa, ask Bird Song for a blackbird” (or another bird name) to…

How to Watch Free TV with Alexa

Editor’s Note: For an updated, comprehensive guide to watching Free TV with Alexa, please go here. If you have an Alexa-enabled device with a screen (Echo Show, Echo Spot, Fire TV, etc.) check out the Stream Player Alexa skill. You’ll…

Surprise a Family Member with a Birthday Greeting from Alexa

Follow these steps to digitally delight a family member on their special day by setting up a birthday routine for Amazon Alexa-enabled devices. Open the Alexa app and click on “More” at the bottom.Select “Routines” > Plus sign on top…

3 Cool Alexa Commands You Should Know

Learn how to print out your Alexa grocery lists and more. Winning Lottery NumbersThink you’ve got the golden ticket? You can ask Alexa for the most recent Powerball and Mega Millions lottery numbers. “Alexa, what are the winning Powerball numbers?”…

Amazon Alexa Reboot: How to Keep Alexa Quiet with Do Not Disturb Mode

If there’s a storm headed your way and you suspect the power may go out, consider putting your Alexa-enabled device in “do not disturb” mode. To do this, simply say, “Alexa, do not disturb.” If the power returns in the…