Amazon Alexa App Gets an Upgrade: Introducing Map View

Unlocking the Potential of Alexa's Map View A Guide for iOS Users

Learn how to set up Alexa’s new Map View on iOS devices and why it’s a must-have!

Image: Map View on the Amazon Alexa app

If you’re a smart home enthusiast, you’ve probably experienced the frustrating task of scrolling endlessly through a long and confusing list of devices on the Amazon Alexa app. It’s like searching for a needle in a haystack! But fear not, my tech-savvy friends, because Amazon has just announced the introduction of a much-needed upgrade: the Alexa Map View feature. And let me tell you, it’s a game-changer!

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Imagine having a visual representation of your home layout right at your fingertips. With Map View, you can create a map of your home using the Alexa app, and easily drag and drop your smart devices to their respective locations. It’s like playing a high-tech game of house, but instead of tiny plastic furniture, you’re dealing with smart plugs and light bulbs.

“But wait,” you may ask, “which devices are compatible with Map View?” Good question, my curious companion. To take advantage of this feature, you’ll need an iOS device with LiDAR technology. So if you’re the proud owner of an iPhone 12 Pro or Pro Max, 13 Pro or Pro Max, 14 Pro or Pro Max, 15 Pro or Pro Max, or 4th gen or newer iPad Pro, you’re in luck!

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Now, let me paint a picture for you. Imagine stumbling through your darkened bedroom, half-asleep, when suddenly, your bedside lamp blinds you with its full, unrelenting brightness. You curse the person responsible, only to realize it was your dear husband trying to turn on a light bulb in the living room. Ah, the joys of a haphazardly connected smart home! But fear not, peace-loving dreamers, because Map View is here to save the day!

So, how can you dive into the wonders of Map View? Let me break it down for you:

How to use Map View on Amazon Alexa

Video: A sped-up view of how the Alexa app scans rooms

• Step 1: Open the Alexa app Open the Amazon Alexa app on your iPhone 12 Pro or Pro Max, or newer, or iPad Pro 4th generation or later. Remember, Map View works on the Alexa app, not the Amazon Shopping app. Let’s keep our tech realms separate, shall we?

• Step 2: Select Devices Tap on Devices at the bottom of your screen on the Alexa app. It’s like entering a secret room filled with all your smart home treasures.

• Step 3: Tap on Map View Behold the pin-drop icon on the top right corner of the Devices screen. It’s your portal to the magical world of Map View. Tap it and prepare to be amazed!

• Step 4: Pass through the intro to Map View As with any grand adventure, there’s an introduction that awaits. The slides you encounter will guide you through the wonders of Map View, explaining how it works, its availability in the US, and some privacy tidbits. Tap “Next” at the bottom of each slide, my eager explorer.

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• Step 5: Add your floor Select which floor of your abode you want to scan first. Is it the ground floor with its cozy living room, or perhaps the basement hiding secrets yet to be discovered? The choice is yours, my architectural artist!

• Step 6: Learn how you’ll create your map Pay attention, my tech-savvy Leonardo da Vinci. The app will guide you through the process of creating your floorplans using your trusty phone. Make sure the rooms are well-lit and capture every wall, from floor to ceiling, along with all your prized pieces of furniture.

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• Step 7: Start scanning Armed with your phone, you’re ready to scan the room like a high-tech wizard. Move around, turn, and let your camera capture every nook and cranny. When you’re done, tap “Finish Room” at the top right. The room is yours to conquer!

• Step 8: Name the room Give your scanned room an identity. Is it your office, your sanctuary? Choose a fitting name and let it resonate throughout the digital realm.

• Step 9: Finish your room layout Take a moment to admire your handiwork. Confirm that your room’s floorplan looks accurate. If satisfied, tap on “All Done” to complete the mapping process. The victory is yours!

• Step 10: Drag and drop your devices It’s time to unleash your inner designer. Look at the carousel at the bottom of your screen, where your room’s devices await. Drag and drop them, placing each one in its rightful spot within the room. A symphony of smartness awaits!

When you’re done, you can marvel at your masterpiece and control your room’s devices directly from your digital map.

And there you have it, my tech-loving comrades. The Amazon Alexa app has been taken to new heights with the marvelous Map View feature. Say goodbye to the days of searching endlessly for your smart devices, and embrace the joy of a neatly organized smart home. Let the power of Map View guide you through the labyrinth of modern technology!

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your Alexa app, unleash your inner cartographer, and bring order to your smart home universe. Happy mapping, my friends!

*Do you already have Map View on your Alexa app? Share your experiences and let’s navigate this brave new world together!

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