Smart digital assistants like Amazon’s Alexa, Apple’s Siri, and Google Assistant are incredibly useful at home. But what about when you’re on the road? Now, you can bring the convenience of Alexa with you in your car. This guide explores the capabilities of Alexa Built-in, how it enhances the driving experience, and how to get started.
Alexa in a carImage used with permission by copyright holder
Alexa Built-in vs. Echo Auto: What’s the Difference?
Before diving into features, let’s clarify the different Alexa options for your vehicle. Alexa Built-in is a factory-installed feature available in select new car models (see compatible models). Echo Auto, on the other hand, is an aftermarket device that adds Alexa functionality to older vehicles. This guide primarily focuses on Alexa Built-in due to its superior reliability and integration.
Key Features of Alexa Built-in
Alexa Built-in offers a range of features designed to streamline your driving experience:
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Navigation: Request directions to specific addresses, businesses, or points of interest using natural language. Alexa seamlessly integrates with your vehicle’s navigation system (e.g., OnStar Turn-by-Turn).
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Media Control: Enjoy hands-free control of your audio entertainment. Ask Alexa to play specific songs, artists, genres, radio stations, Audible audiobooks, and podcasts. Switching between AM/FM, SiriusXM, and other audio sources is also effortless.
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Communication: Make hands-free calls to contacts in your phone’s address book when paired with Alexa.
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Connectivity and Productivity: Stay connected and productive on the go. Access news updates, manage your Amazon shopping cart, create grocery lists, set reminders, and utilize various Alexa skills.
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Smart Home Integration: Control your smart home devices remotely. As you approach your home, instruct Alexa to turn on lights, open the garage door, adjust the thermostat, or make announcements on your in-home Echo devices.
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Remote Vehicle Access: Depending on your vehicle’s capabilities, utilize Alexa to lock/unlock doors, activate the alarm, start the engine for climate control, share vehicle location, check fuel levels, and even request roadside assistance.
Setting Up Alexa Built-in
Setting up Alexa Built-in is generally straightforward. Here’s a typical setup process using a Chevrolet Blazer as an example:
Setup Instructions
- Download and install your vehicle’s specific mobile app (e.g., myChevrolet, myBuick, myGMC).
- Open the Alexa app on your phone or device.
- Enable the corresponding skill for your vehicle’s app. Log in with your vehicle app credentials.
- Set a PIN for added security.
Activating Alexa in Your Vehicle
To use Alexa in your car, press the Voice Control button on your steering wheel. Unlike home use, you cannot directly address Alexa by name. This safety feature helps maintain driver focus and prevents unintended commands from passengers.
Example Alexa Commands for Your Car
Alexa in car
Here are some examples of how to interact with Alexa in your vehicle:
- “Alexa, ask Chevrolet for help.”
- “Alexa, ask Cadillac to start my car.”
- “Alexa, ask Chevrolet to lock/unlock my car.”
- “Alexa, ask GMC to stop my car.” (Must be parked.)
- “Alexa, ask Buick what vehicles are in my garage.”
- “Alexa, ask Cadillac to secure my garage.”
Cloud Connectivity Requirements
Alexa Built-in relies on cloud connectivity. Compatible vehicles usually have built-in 4G LTE data plans. Some vehicles may also offer the flexibility to connect to Wi-Fi hotspots or your home network.
Is Alexa Built-in Worth It?
While in-car voice assistants might have seemed unnecessary in the past, they’re quickly becoming an indispensable part of the modern driving experience. Alexa Built-in offers a convenient and safe way to manage various tasks while keeping your hands on the wheel and eyes on the road. If your new car includes this feature, you’ll likely appreciate the added convenience and safety it provides.
