A new Echo device has just been delivered to your home. Perhaps you purchased it during Prime Day, or maybe it was a gift. You're eager to use it, but what's next? Regardless of how you acquired an Echo, your new device can perform a variety of interesting tasks, including music streaming, smart home connectivity, and Alexa Routines and Skills.

To help you get the most out of your Echo device, we're releasing a three-part series detailing how to go from "I don't know" to "smart-home pro." We'll begin with essential device configuration information. Then, we will guide you through devising more advanced features for your Echo and assist you in constructing a comprehensive smart home.

ALSO READ:How an E-Ink Display Can Keep You Concentrated and Content

Here are four tips for getting your new Echo device with Alexa up and running, including connecting Alexa to WiFi and a phone, configuring voice ID, and activating music provider accounts with Alexa.

1.

Download the Alexa application

The initial step is to install the Alexa app on your mobile device. The app enables you to configure your Echo device, manage Alexa settings, set alarms, create Alexa Routines, and enable Alexa Skills, among other things. The app also functions as a mobile Alexa assistant, allowing users to control smart home devices and make phone conversations.

After downloading and logging into the Alexa app and your Amazon account, you will be prompted to register your new device. Frustration-Free Setup simplifies the registration and setup process by using compatible devices such as Echo, Fire TV, routers, and smartphones with specific Amazon apps to eliminate the more complicated steps. Select the Devices heading at the bottom of the screen, tap the + icon, select the type of device you're configuring, and then follow the registration instructions. Ensure that you have downloaded the most recent version of the Alexa app if you're experiencing problems.

2.

Connecting Alexa to WiFi

ALSO READ:How to Disable Siri on the iPad Lock Display

If you need assistance connecting your Echo to WiFi, navigating to your device page in the Alexa app and tapping Devices in the bottom bar is a smart first step. After clicking on your specific device, a Status window will appear at the bottom of the screen, providing information about your WiFi connectivity.

Alexa will provide network diagnostics for your device if you ask her, "Alexa, are you connected to the internet?" Find out more about WiFi connectivity.

3.

Configuring voice ID

When you register your Echo device after connecting it to the internet, you will be prompted to set up voice ID. Voice ID is an excellent method to initiate Alexa's benefits. The opt-in service enables you to receive a customized experience for a variety of app features by speaking a few prompted phrases. Voice ID can assist with sending personal communications from your Echo or receiving phone reminders. Alexa can even personalize music playback based on your voice if you have the Amazon Music Unlimited Family Plan. Discover how to configure voice ID.

4.

Connecting Alexa to Apple Music, Amazon Music, and Spotify

Register with a music service provider in order to listen to your beloved songs. Your Echo can play music from the Amazon Music Library, Amazon Prime Music, Amazon Music Unlimited, and third-party services such as Apple Music and Spotify. Download the respective music service provider's app from the appstore if you're also configuring a Fire TV or Fire Tablet.

To connect your Echo device to any of these music services, tap More in the Alexa app's bottom bar and then select Settings. Then, under Alexa Preferences, select Music & Podcasts and then choose Link New Service. Select your music streaming service and then follow the on-screen instructions. Once connected, you can use simple voice commands to play music.

Are you humming a tune in your head? Request Alexa to play the song. Someone is at your door, so you must halt the music, right? Use the command "Alexa, stop" or "Alexa, pause." View the complete list of music-related requests Alexa can fulfill. Multi-room music allows you to fill your entire home with music, radio, podcasts, audiobooks, and more if you have multiple Echo devices. Consider saying "Alexa, play music everywhere."

After configuring your Echo device, Alexa is available to assist you in managing your day. Simply ask for the local weather, to set timers, to hear quips, to play games, to listen to your favorite audiobook or podcast, to hear the latest news, and more. Learn more about the features of Alexa.

Learn how to set up useful features like Drop In and Alexa Skills, as well as how to alter Alexa's intonation, in the second part of our series.

ALSO READ:The Top 7 Ways To Prevent Your Phone From Heating

Do you have additional compatible devices to configure or integrate with your smart home? In part three of our instructional series, we will demonstrate how to connect Alexa to your television, security camera, and other devices.