How to Create Routines in Alexa

Step by step

1. Open the Alexa app and navigate to Routines

   Launch the Alexa app on your phone or tablet. Tap the More tab at the bottom right, then select Routines from the menu. This opens your Routines dashboard where you can create and manage all automated sequences.

   Note: Pin the Routines section to your home screen by tapping the star icon for quick access.

2. Create a new routine

   Tap the plus (+) icon in the top right corner to start a new routine. Give your routine a descriptive name like 'Good Morning' or 'Movie Time' in the Routine Name field. This name helps you identify the routine later but won't affect how it works.

3. Set up the trigger condition

   Tap 'When this happens' to define what starts your routine. Choose from Voice (a specific phrase you'll say), Schedule (specific times and days), Device (when a smart device changes state), or Location (when you arrive or leave). For voice triggers, avoid common words that might accidentally activate the routine.

   Note: Use specific phrases like 'Start my day' instead of common words like 'Morning' to prevent accidental triggering.

4. Add actions to execute

   Tap 'Add action' to define what happens when the routine triggers. Select from categories like Smart Home (control devices), Alexa Says (custom announcements), Music (play specific playlists), Traffic (traffic updates), Weather (weather reports), or News (news briefings). You can add multiple actions that will execute in order.

   Note: Add a brief delay between actions using the Wait feature if you need devices to respond sequentially.

5. Configure smart home device controls

   If adding Smart Home actions, select the device category (Lights, Plugs, Thermostats, etc.), then choose specific devices. Set their desired states like brightness levels for lights, temperature for thermostats, or on/off for switches. Each device can have multiple settings configured simultaneously.

   Note: Group similar devices together in the Alexa app first to control multiple lights or outlets with a single routine action.

6. Set routine options and save

   Choose which Alexa device will respond to voice triggers by tapping 'From' and selecting specific Echo devices or 'All Devices'. Enable or disable the routine using the toggle switch. Tap Save to activate your routine immediately.

   Note: Test your routine immediately after saving by using the voice trigger or manually running it from the Routines list.

7. Test and refine your routine

   Run your routine using the voice command or manual trigger to verify all actions work correctly. Check that devices respond as expected and timing feels natural. Edit the routine by tapping its name in the Routines list if adjustments are needed.

   Note: Create backup routines for critical automations in case your primary routine fails or needs updates.