AT&T subscribers can now send text messages without tapping on screens or even keys.
Messages can be sent through any Alexa-enabled devices such as the Amazon Echo, Echo Dot and Fire tablet using a new feature called the Send Message Skill. This feature is available starting Nov. 18.
Users need to download the feature to their Amazon device through the Amazon Alexa app. After downloading, the users can immediately send messages through text just by talking to Alexa. The digital assistant will answer to a simple voice command such as "Alexa, text (person)." The user then dictates the message which Alexa sends to the contact.
The new feature can only accommodate ten contact numbers so far. This means the user can load ten of the most important numbers in his or her contacts list.
Jeff Bradley, senior vice president of the Device and Network Services Marketing of AT&T, has this to say about the new feature:
"Amazon Echo is ahead of the curve in terms of voice recognition technology and functionality. AT&T is the first carrier to bring this unique skill to a product already known for innovation. We're always working to bring simple solutions for our customers to stay in touch. In the tradition of NumberSync, another solution that was introduced at AT&T first, the Send Message Skill gives our customers another easy and convenient way to communicate."
AT&T and Amazon is also partnering in other ways to provide their customers with better service. Reports say that the Amazon Echo and Echo Dot is being offered to AT&T customers for only $179 and $49 respectively.
Amazon continues to add to Alexa's many Skills or voice-activated capabilities. Alexa can already play music, transact through Amazons website, get weather data, and setup a home entertainment system, among lots of other abilities. This new texting feature will definitely push it atop the list of the best AIs around, if it's not there yet.
