How to Create Routines in Alexa

Alexa Routines let you automate multiple actions with a single voice command or automatic trigger. You can control lights, adjust thermostats, play music, and announce messages all at once.

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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.