[raker]

I get daily use from my two echos with these functions: set a timer for x minutes, remind me to x at y am/pm, set an alarm for y am/pm, connect to my phone (so I can play bluetooth music), what time is it (when I'm in bed at night; I prefer not to have a bright clock splitting the darkness). A lot of this stuff my phone can already do, but it's easier not having to always pull out my phone. I've never used it for ordering, amazon music, lights, or to ask it questions for its biased responses.

[slantyyz]

>> it's easier not having to always pull out my phone.

Not just that, but you don't have to hunt for apps and fiddle with UI. Asking Alexa to set the heat to 21.5 degrees is way faster than finding the closest mobile device, unlocking, launching the app and doing a bunch of taps.

While I'm missing a couple of skills in Canada (stupid region locks!), the smart home control has been fantastic for our household. We also find the shopping list helpful.