We can say that smart speakers are one of the most popular home automation devices. Over time, new versions have been appearing with more functions and also a lower cost if we compare it with a few years ago. But what can we really do with a smart speaker? In this article we are going to show some of the most common and useful functions.
Uses of a smart speaker
Keep in mind that this type of device offers a very wide range of options. Each user may need it for something specific, beyond serving only as a speaker. But there are certain uses that are usually common and if you want to buy one you should know about them.
Make inquiries
One of the common uses is to perform queries. You can use smart speakers with virtual assistants like Alexa or Google Home to ask what type is going to make, what properties a food has or anything else you need to know at a given time. Simply with your voice you can make these queries.
These devices will be connected to the Internet. That means your operating system can quickly perform queries and display up-to-date information as well. For example, asking how a football match turned out or on what date a specific sporting event is played.
control devices
You will also be able to control other smart devices in your home. You can connect them to that speaker and be able to control them directly through voice commands . For example, you can connect light bulbs to that device or some appliance. This way you will be able to turn it on or off with your voice.
This is especially useful in places like a kitchen. Maybe you are cooking and want to turn on a certain appliance. It is very simple simply by having it linked to the speaker and issuing a certain command. It will quickly turn it off, turn it on or do whatever settings you need.
Listen to music and radio
Of course, a loudspeaker is for listening to sounds . Therefore, another thing that you will be able to do is simply listen to music and the radio. You can even make calls from your mobile and use this speaker to listen to the other person. In this sense, it offers many options that you can take into account.
In addition, these speakers are going to have integrated applications. Therefore, you will be able to listen to music through Spotify, for example. You just have to tell the speaker to play a specific song, album, etc.
Domotize old appliances
But a very interesting use that is sometimes overlooked is being able to domotize old devices. Why do we say this? Take, for example, an old air conditioner. You cannot control it with your mobile, much less by voice. But you can connect it to a smart plug and this, in turn, to a smart speaker.
In this way, thanks to a speaker of this type you will be able to control a certain plug. You will be able to give orders to turn off or turn on the air conditioning or any device you can use.
Use as calendar
One more use is that you can use the smart speaker as a calendar . You can tell him things to write down, create a to-do list, etc. Basically what you could do with an online calendar, but instead of writing things down on your computer or mobile, you simply tell it and it stores it.
This is interesting on certain occasions. For example, if you are cooking and suddenly you remember something you need to buy, such as an ingredient, you can communicate with the speaker.