Alexa Smart Properties for Hospitality End User FAQs
1. What is Alexa Smart Properties for Hospitality?
Alexa Smart Properties (ASP) for Hospitality gives service providers the ability to deploy, manage, and customize Alexa-enabled technology at scale in a hospitality setting.
2. Do you store my voice recordings?
No. We do not store voice recordings from ASP-supported devices and solutions.
3. Can I connect my Alexa Profile to personalize my experience on an in-room Echo device?
No. Your Alexa experience through ASP for Hospitality is kept separate from your experiences with your Alexa-enabled devices at home.
4. Can I use Alexa in the room even if I don't have any Alexa-enabled devices at home?
Yes, just ask Alexa what you want and start interacting. Alexa allows you to ask questions and make requests using just your voice.
5. How does Alexa minimize the amount of data sent to the cloud?
Alexa and Echo devices are designed to record as little audio as possible and minimize the amount of background noise streamed to the cloud. By default, Alexa-enabled devices only stream audio to the cloud if the wake word is detected (or Alexa is activated by pressing a button). When an Alexa-enabled device detects the wake word and begins streaming audio to the cloud, Alexa performs a "cloud verification" of the wake word using the more powerful processing capabilities of the cloud to double-check the audio to confirm detection of the wake word. If the cloud verification does not also detect the wake word, Alexa stops processing the audio and ends the audio stream to the cloud.
6. What are some of Alexa’s security and privacy features?
· Wake word: The device will not stream audio to the cloud until it detects the wake word, usually “Alexa.” When you want to use Alexa, just say the wake word.
· Microphone controls: Using Alexa is optional. Echo devices are equipped with a microphone off control button. When the button is pressed, the microphones are electronically disconnected and a dedicated red light is illuminated. When the microphones are turned off, the device cannot stream audio to the cloud, even when you say the wake word.
· Camera controls: The camera on the Echo Show devices approved for use with Alexa Smart Properties for Hospitality is disabled. Additionally, Echo Show devices include a built-in shutter so you can easily cover the camera for additional peace of mind.
· Visual Indicator: When Echo devices detect the wake word or when the Action button, available on some Echo devices, is pressed to activate Alexa, a visual indicator appears on the device to indicate it is recording audio to stream to the cloud. For instance, a light ring on the Echo will turn blue or a blue bar will appear on the Echo Show.
· Privacy: Voice recordings from ASP-supported devices and solutions are not stored. ASP for Healthcare does not require you to share your personal information. Any personal information that the ASP service does receive is handled in accordance with the Amazon-wide Privacy Notice (amazon.com/privacy).
7. What are some of the ways I can use Alexa in the room?
When you stay in a property served by an Alexa Smart Properties solution, you can play music, check the weather, set alarms, and ask for general information. Properties can also create custom experiences with Alexa to help you make the most of your stay. For example, you may be able to ask Alexa for information about the property such as the amenity location, get local recommendations, ask for more towels, check out, WIFI information, contact the front desk, control smart devices such as lights or room temperature, access entertainment options, and more.
8. Can I use Alexa in the room to shop?
Voice purchasing through Amazon’s retail site is not currently available on these devices.
9. What should I do if I run into technical issues?
Alexa is designed to give you a delightful experience throughout your stay. Contact a property administrator if you experience unexpected issues with an in-room Echo device.