Today we’re excited to announce the InteractionModel interface of the Alexa Voice Service (AVS), which enables device makers to support the Alexa Routines feature in their products. Customers can use Routines to automate a series of actions using a single voice command of their choice. For example, a customer could say, “Alexa, it's bedtime,” to turn off the lights, lock the door, and turn off the TV. Implementing the InteractionModel interface in connected products provides the following benefits:

• Prepares your product to support audio actions in Routines created by customers in the Alexa App.
• Enables customers to select your device as the “Alexa will respond from” device in the Alexa App.

Device makers who want to upgrade their Alexa Built-in products to support the new Routines feature can follow the steps below. Note: If you are using the AVS Device SDK v1.9 or later, no further action is required.

1. Familiarize Yourself with the New InteractionModel Interface

For more details, please see the InteractionModel interface version 1.0 API documentation on the AVS Developer Portal.

2. Update Your AVS Client Code to Support InteractionModel 1.0

Update your device software to support the InteractionModel 1.0 interface version and use the Capabilities API to provide the complete list of interfaces and interface versions that your product supports.

Please see the Capabilities API documentation for a more detailed discussion of the API and a complete set of use cases.

AVS Sample App on GitHub

The AVS Device SDK v1.9 and later supports InteractionModel version 1.0, the Capabilities API, and interface versioning. Build your first prototype with Raspberry Pi or download the latest code to see the new features.

What Is AVS?

AVS is a customizable suite of development tools and resources that make it easy to integrate Alexa directly into your products and bring voice-forward experiences to customers. Through AVS, device makers can add a new natural interface to their products and offer customers access to a growing number of Alexa features, smart home integrations, and skills. Visit the AVS Developer Portal to get started.