Alexa is Amazon’s smart assistant that you can often find built into Amazon smart speakers and compatible with all kinds of tech – from headphones to smart lights. There’s loads to know about Alexa and what it can do. But getting started with Alexa is simple enough – as it often comes ready to use in compatible tech and is ready to go without any complicated set up.
And if you’re a music or podcast fan, Alexa is definitely worth keeping around. From playing and pausing tracks to finding deep cuts, Alexa finds what you need without endless scrolling. So, here’s how to use Alexa best for music and podcasts.
How can I play my music on Alexa?
There are lots of different ways to play music on Alexa. First thing’s first – make sure that your Alexa-compatible device is connected to the internet. Then you can simply tell Alexa what you want to hear.
If you’re not sure what you fancy listening to just say: "Alexa, play music." Or you can ask Alexa to play a specific song, artist, album or even genre, i.e. rock or hip hop. Of course, you’ll need a subscription to a music service, such as Amazon Music, Spotify, Apple Music etc. You can link your streaming service up to Alexa in in two ways:
Open the Alexa app on your smartphone, go to Settings, select Music & Podcasts and pick your preferred service.
Just ask! For example, you could say "Alexa, play Foo Fighters on Spotify."
Tech tip:
To boost your music, you can connect your device to external speakers via Bluetooth or audio cables.
How can I listen to podcasts on Alexa?
Listening to podcasts on Alexa is a similar process to listening to music. Of course, you’ll need to be connected to the internet and to pick a streaming service – as above. Then you could say "Alexa, play the latest episode of Adam Buxton" or "Alexa, play podcasts about true crime."
Alexa supports major podcast platforms, like Amazon Music, Spotify, TuneIn and Apple Podcasts. One of the downsides of listening to podcasts hands-free (for example when you’re cooking) is that you can end up having to sit through lots of ads. Fortunately, you can just ask Alexa to "skip forward" or "go back." In the same way, if you get interrupted mid-episode, you can just ask Alexa to "pause" and then "resume" once you’re ready to get back to your favourite show.
Tech tip:
Did you know that the Amazon Echo can also become an extra TV speaker? It’s a brilliant trick when you want to add a bit of surround sound when you’re watching Glastonbury on TV or streaming a football match. Find out how right here: Hey Alexa, turn my Amazon Echo into a TV speaker.
Alexa questions
Got more Alexa questions? Either you can… ask Alexa or just check out the answers below!
Can you use Alexa without WiFi?
Yes, but it will be a lot more limited. You can still tell Alexa to do things like adjusting the volume of what you’re listening to, or to set reminders and alarms. All you need for that is a Bluetooth connection. But if you want to stream music or get answers to questions, you’ll need either WiFi or a stable internet connection – like a wired connection or a mobile hotspot.
How to play music on Alexa for free
Most streaming services are subscription based, but there are always free alternatives. Both Amazon Music and Spotify have free versions – but they come with restrictions. A lot of the time, you won’t be able to pick what song you want to hear, but you will be able to listen to playlists. You’ll also have to be prepared to sit through ads. But digital radio stations are free. And lots of podcast players (like Apple Podcasts or Stitcher) don’t charge either.
What can I do with Alexa?
The answer is probably “more than you think!” From finding a TV show to switching on lights to getting answers for all kinds of questions. We’ve put together a list of what to use Alexa for which should cover most of the best (and surprising) uses for Alexa.
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For Alexa-compatible speakers, earbuds and the best way to listen to your fave music and podcasts, check out our audio buying guide.
