Here’s everything you should know about the new subscription service, from what it’s all about to how you can make it work, both for you and your loved one.
What Is Alexa Together?
Alexa Together is basically an upgraded version of Care Hub. In addition to existing features that let you check up on relatives, there are new tools for extra assistance and fast response in emergencies.
How to Get and Use Alexa Together?
You can easily buy your subscription from the Alexa Together website. In order to use the service, however, you need to install some apps and hardware.
To begin with, the ideal setup involves an Echo device in each room your family member likes to spend time in and at least one for you as the caregiver.
This ensures your loved one gets well-rounded support, but it also lets you use some of Alexa Together’s best features. If both ends have an Echo Show, for example, you can interact remotely via Alexa’s video chat, Calling, and Drop-In tools.
That said, such a high-tech setup isn’t cheap, so sticking to the minimum requirements is fine. All you need to make Alexa Together work:
What Does Alexa Together Cost?
After a six-month free trial, the subscription for Alexa Together is $19.99 per month or $199 per year. As an additional perk, existing Care Hub customers can look forward to one year’s free service before paying anything.
What Does Alexa Together Feature?
As already mentioned, you and your family member only need one subscription between you. Once you’re equipped with the app and either an Echo or another Alexa-enabled device, you’re ready to enjoy everything Alexa Together has to offer.
The key tools carried forward from Care Hub include:
In terms of the enhanced features, these are the best:
Urgent Response, 24/7 hands-free access to online assistance Remote Assist so you can manage your loved one’s Alexa functions, from reminders to shopping lists Fall Detection Response, courtesy of Vayyar and SkyAngelCare, so Alexa can call for help as soon as something bad happens
How Does Alexa Together’s Fall Technology Detection Work?
You might already know how to communicate with smart assistants like Alexa and Siri, but fall detection technology is a bit different. Services like Vayyar Care, a key contributor to Alexa Together, are specifically designed for seniors, to make it easier and safer for them to live as independently as possible.
But what does the optional fall detection feature actually do? It uses 4D imaging radar sensors to monitor spaces, no matter the lighting or conditions. As soon as a sensor spots a person falling, Alexa Together will ask whether to activate Urgent Response and notify the caregiver. In bad falls, it takes these steps anyway.
This smart, voice-based technology replaces buttons and wearables that are easy to forget. Your family member gets a faster response time when they need it.
How Much Privacy Does Alexa Together Provide?
One concern that pops up is just how exposed your loved one is, both to you and Alexa Together. We’re talking about constant surveillance through sensors, monitors, and smart devices.
As for monitoring your family member, the alerts you get won’t go into painstaking detail. Unless there’s something very important you need to know about, you can expect a simple list of Alexa’s activities, which your loved one can edit, too.
Unlock Alexa’s Full Potential
To get as much as possible out of your smart assistant, take the time to explore its wide range of skills. The more you discover, the better it can benefit your lifestyle, not to mention your emergencies.
