AT&T is tapping the power of Amazon Alexa to launch a special skill that will allow its customers to send text messages simply by speaking.
Amazon's voice-controlled digital assistant has rapidly grown in popularity and it's widening its scope, adding Alexa skills for a number of tasks the assistant can perform.
AT&T is now adding a Send Message Alexa skill to its service, allowing users to send messages via Alexa starting on Nov. 18.
Alexa Skills
Alexa skills refer to voice-controlled capabilities that broaden the functionality of Alexa-enabled devices, including the Amazon Echo and Echo dot. Alexa is cloud-based and can perform a wide range of tasks, from playing music to providing information such as sports scores, weather forecasts, news and more. The ability to send messages now adds to its prowess, with AT&T as the first carrier to enable this functionality.
The Alexa Send Message skill enables AT&T customers to send text messages from their mobile number to their predetermined contact list. This skill could come in handy when you need to send a text message but you've got your hands full, or wet, or you're simply in a hurry and prefer to speak rather than type.
How It Works
To send a text message via Amazon's virtual assistant, just ask Alexa to have AT&T text the person you want to text. Alexa will prompt you to dictate your message and send it to the contact of your choice. You can also add up to 10 frequent contacts to the AT&T Send Message skill so you can send the message without having to type their name or number on the smartphone.
Amazon Echo And Echo Dot At AT&T
Also starting on Nov. 18, AT&T will offer the Amazon Echo and Echo Dot at $179 and $49, respectively, both online and in its physical retail stores.
"Amazon Echo is ahead of the curve in terms of voice recognition technology and functionality," says Jeff Bradley, AT&T SVP of Device and Network Services Marketing. "AT&T is the first carrier to bring this unique skill to a product already known for innovation. We're always working to bring simple solutions for our customers to stay in touch. In addition of NumberSync, another solution that was introduced at AT&T first, the Send Message Skill gives our customers another east and convenient way to communicate."
The AT&T Send Message Skill will be available to qualified wireless customers who have a service plan with text messaging, as well as a compatible device.
Once you try out this new feature, make sure to drop by and leave a comment to tell us what you think of it.
