Key Takeaways:
- Alexa can read text messages out loud in your car using Echo Auto devices
- You need to grant Alexa permission to access your phone’s contacts and messages
- Alexa supports reading texts on Android phones and iPhones with supported operating systems
- You can send texts hands-free by voice and have incoming messages read aloud
Alexa has become a popular virtual assistant in homes, but did you know you can also use Alexa in your car? With Echo Auto devices, you can bring Alexa along on your drives. One handy feature is the ability to have Alexa read your text messages out loud, allowing you to stay connected without taking your eyes off the road.
In this guide, we’ll walk through how to set up Alexa to read texts in your vehicle. We’ll cover the requirements, step-by-step instructions, and some helpful tips for using this convenient capability during your commute or road trips. Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Requirements for Using Alexa to Read Texts in Your Car
Before Alexa can start reading your text messages aloud in your car, there are a few requirements:
- An Echo Auto device: You’ll need either a 1st generation or 2nd generation Echo Auto installed in your vehicle. The setup process is straightforward – the device connects to your car’s stereo system via Bluetooth or an auxiliary cable.
- A compatible phone: Alexa can read texts from iPhones running iOS 10.0 or higher, Android phones with OS 5.1 or higher, and Amazon Fire tablets with FireOS 5.6.0.1 or above. Basically, if your phone is from 2015 or later, it likely works with this feature.
- The Alexa app: You need the Alexa mobile app installed on your phone. This is where you’ll manage permissions and pair your phone with the Echo Auto.
Once you have these components in place, you’re ready to enable Alexa to be your text message reader in the car.
Step-by-Step Guide: Enabling Alexa to Read Texts
Follow these steps to allow Alexa to read your incoming text messages out loud:
- Open the Alexa app on your mobile device
- Go to the “Communicate” tab (look for the speech bubble icon)
- If prompted, grant Alexa permission to access your phone’s contacts and messages
- Verify your phone number by entering it and following the on-screen instructions
- Make sure your phone is paired with your Echo Auto via Bluetooth
That’s it! With these permissions enabled, Alexa will now be able to read your texts when you’re in your car. You can test it out by having someone send you a text message.
Sending Texts with Alexa in the Car
In addition to reading your incoming messages aloud, you can also dictate and send new text messages completely hands-free while driving. Here’s how:
- Say the wake word “Alexa”
- Follow with the command “Send a text message to [contact name]”
- Alexa will ask what you want the message to say
- Speak your message out loud, then pause when done
- Alexa will ask you to confirm before sending the text
Alternatively, you can initiate a new text right from the Alexa app:
- Open the Alexa app and go to the “Communicate” tab
- Tap “New Message” and select your recipient
- Type your message, then hit the send arrow
Keep in mind the recipient needs to be saved in your phone’s contacts and also have the Alexa app installed on a supported device.
Tips for Using Alexa to Read and Send Texts in the Car
Here are a few tips to make the most of this Alexa capability during your drives:
- Minimize background noise: If there’s a lot of road noise, wind noise with the windows down, or loud music playing, Alexa may have trouble understanding your voice commands. Try to minimize distractions so Alexa can hear you clearly.
- Use full contact names: When asking Alexa to send a text, use your contact’s full name as it’s saved in your phone. Nicknames or shortened names may not be recognized.
- Keep messages concise: It’s best to keep the messages you dictate brief and to the point. If you pause too long while speaking your message, Alexa may cut you off and ask if you want to send it.
- Proofread before sending: Alexa will read your dictated message back before sending. Make sure to listen carefully in case any words were misinterpreted. You can cancel the message if needed and try again.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
What if Alexa isn’t reading your texts in the car? Here are a few things to double check:
- Make sure your phone is paired properly with your Echo Auto and connected via Bluetooth
- Double check that you’ve enabled access to your contacts and messages in the Alexa app
- Confirm your phone and operating system are compatible with the text reading feature
- Try disconnecting and re-pairing your phone with the Echo Auto
If you’re still having trouble, consider reaching out to Amazon’s customer support for further assistance with your specific device and setup.
FAQ
Can Alexa read texts from any phone number?
Alexa can only read messages from contacts saved in your phone who also have a supported device with the Alexa app installed. It does not support reading texts from unknown numbers.
Will Alexa notify me when a new text arrives?
Yes, when a new message comes in, your Echo Auto will play a notification sound and the light ring will glow yellow. You can then ask Alexa to read your messages.
Can I use Alexa to send texts to multiple people at once?
No, Alexa can only send a text to one recipient at a time using voice commands in the car.
What if I don’t want Alexa to read my texts out loud?
You can always disable the text reading feature by going into the Alexa app settings and revoking access to your contacts and messages. This will prevent Alexa from reading your texts out loud.
Is it safe to use Alexa to read and send texts while driving?
Using voice commands to send and receive messages is much safer than looking at your phone while driving. However, it can still be distracting. Always keep your primary focus on the road and use Alexa’s text features sparingly and responsibly while in the car.
