The Alerts interface of the Alexa Voice Service (AVS) has enabled device makers to build voice-based alerts such as timers, alarms, and reminders into connected products. Today we’re excited to announce Alerts interface version 1.3, which allows Alexa-enabled products to support several new features:

• Deletion of multiple alerts (via the DeleteAlerts directive, and the DeleteAlertsFailed and DeleteAlertsSucceeded events)
• Control of alert volume using the Amazon Alexa App (via the SetVolume and AdjustVolume directives, and the VolumeChanged event)
• Selection of custom alert tones using the Amazon Alexa App (no API change).

Device makers who want to upgrade their Alexa-enabled products to support new alerts features can follow these steps:

Note: If you are using the AVS Device SDK v1.8.1 or later, no further action is required.

1. Familiarize yourself with the new Alerts interface version

For more details, please see the Alerts interface version 1.3 API documentation on the AVS Developer Portal.

2. Update your AVS client code to support Alerts 1.3

Update your device software to support the Alerts 1.3 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 v1.8.1 and later supports Alerts version 1.3, 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.