Alexa for Windows 10: What you can and can’t do with Alexa on PC

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(Pocket-lint) – Amazon’s Alexa app for Windows lets you use Alexa hands-free, just like you would if you were talking to an Alexa smart speaker.

You can easily use Alexa whether the app is running in the foreground or the background – all you have to do is ask.

The Alexa app is available in the Microsoft Store for any Windows 10 or 11 PC user to download. Here’s what you need to know about Alexa on PC and how it works.

How to get started with Alexa on a PC

First, download the Alexa app from the Microsoft Store. If it comes pre-installed on your PC, you have what Microsoft and Amazon call an “Alexa Built-in PC”.

Either way, launch the app, then log into your Amazon account (or create one if you’re new). Finally, just press the Alexa button and ask a question. Try asking, “Alexa, what’s the weather like now?” »

Go here for specific installation and configuration instructions.

Is the Alexa PC app always listening?

As we mentioned, you can now talk to Alexa hands-free. You can always press a button in the app to talk to Alexa, or you can summon the assistant using a keyboard shortcut on your computer.

To see if you can use a wake word:

• Open the Alexa for PC app menu.
• Select Settings.
• See if you can select the Wake Word option.

What can you do with Alexa on a PC?

You can use Alexa to set reminders, timers, and alarms, create shopping and to-do lists, listen to music and audiobooks, check your calendar and appointments, and even control your smart home. Alexa on PC works almost like Alexa on any other device. The only differences are that video, calls, Spotify and Pandora are currently not supported in this Alexa app for Windows 10.

What you can try asking Alexa:

• “Alexa, what’s on my calendar today?” »
• “Alexa, read me a book.”
• “Alexa, turn on the light.”
• “Alexa, what’s the weather like at home?” »

Can you control your PC with Alexa?

In a word, no. Amazon hasn’t added any functionality for Alexa to specifically control or access Windows. However, Amazon said “PC-specific capabilities will be added…in addition to ongoing feature updates.”

Written by Maggie Tillman and Dan Grabham. Edited by Luke Baker.