Voice Commands You Should Be Using with Your Smart Speaker

4 June 2025

Smart speakers have become an essential part of modern homes. Whether you own an Amazon Echo, Google Nest, or Apple HomePod, these intelligent devices can do much more than just play your favorite tunes. Yet, many people barely scratch the surface when it comes to using voice commands effectively.

If you’re only using your smart speaker to set alarms and check the weather, you’re missing out on a world of convenience! In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best voice commands you should be using with your smart speaker—commands that can make your daily routine smoother, more enjoyable, and even more productive.

Why You Should Be Using Voice Commands

Imagine having a personal assistant who never takes a break, doesn’t need coffee, and follows your instructions to the letter. That’s essentially what a smart speaker is—a digital assistant ready to obey your every command.

Instead of fumbling for your phone or manually setting reminders, why not just say what you need and let your smart speaker handle the rest? It’s faster, hands-free, and downright fun! Plus, using voice commands can help automate tasks, boost productivity, and improve accessibility for those with mobility challenges.

So, let’s dive into some of the best commands you should start using today!

1. Smart Home Controls: Make Life Easier

One of the top reasons people invest in a smart speaker is to control their smart home devices. If you have smart lights, thermostats, or plugs, voice commands can make managing them a breeze.

Basic Smart Home Commands

- “Turn on/off the living room lights.”
- “Set the thermostat to 72 degrees.”
- “Lock the front door.”

Advanced Smart Home Commands

- “Dim the bedroom lights to 50%.”
- “Turn on the coffee maker.” (If connected to a smart plug)
- “Activate movie mode.” (Sets lights to dim, closes blinds, and turns on your TV)

With just a simple phrase, you can turn your home into a futuristic paradise.

2. Communication Made Effortless

Your smart speaker can do more than just play music—it can help you stay connected with family and friends.

Calling and Messaging

- “Call Mom.”
- “Send a text to John: ‘See you at 5 PM.’”
- “Drop in on the kitchen.” (For Amazon Echo users, to use as an intercom)

Announcements

- “Announce ‘Dinner is ready!’”
- “Broadcast ‘Time to leave for school!’”

Gone are the days of yelling across the house—your smart speaker does it for you!

3. Stay Organized Without Lifting a Finger

If you struggle to keep track of your daily tasks, let your smart speaker lighten the load.

Reminders and Alarms

- “Remind me to take my medication at 8 AM.”
- “Set an alarm for 6:30 AM.”
- “Set a timer for 20 minutes.” (Perfect for cooking or workouts)

Calendar and Scheduling

- “What’s on my calendar today?”
- “Add ‘dentist appointment at 3 PM’ to my calendar.”

With voice commands, you’ll never miss an important meeting or forget to water your plants again.

4. Entertainment at Your Command

Your smart speaker is also an entertainment powerhouse. Whether you enjoy music, audiobooks, or trivia, there’s a command for that!

Music and Podcasts

- “Play some relaxing jazz.”
- “Shuffle my workout playlist.”
- “Play the latest episode of ‘The Daily.’”

Audiobooks and News

- “Read my audiobook from Audible.”
- “Give me the news briefing.”

Fun and Games

- “Tell me a joke.”
- “Play a trivia game.”
- “Give me a riddle.”

Whether you’re winding down after a long day or getting the party started, your smart speaker has you covered.

5. Enhancing Productivity Like a Pro

Your smart speaker can also serve as your productivity assistant, helping you get more done in less time.

Quick Information and Conversions

- “How many cups are in a liter?”
- “What’s the capital of Canada?”
- “Translate ‘Hello’ to Spanish.”

To-Do Lists and Notes

- “Add ‘buy eggs’ to my shopping list.”
- “Take a note: ‘Idea for new blog post.’”

Time Management

- “How long will it take to drive to work?”
- “What’s the weather like this weekend?”

By using these commands, you can streamline your daily tasks without ever needing to look at your phone.

6. Health and Fitness Assistance

If you’re working on your fitness, your smart speaker can be a great workout buddy.

Workout Assistance

- “Start a 10-minute guided workout.”
- “How many calories are in a banana?”
- “Track my water intake.”

Relaxation and Meditation

- “Play some white noise.”
- “Guide me through a 5-minute meditation.”
- “Set a sleep timer for 30 minutes.”

With a little help from your smart speaker, staying on top of your health goals just got easier.

7. Learning and Curiosity

Want to keep your brain active? Your smart speaker is packed with knowledge!

Quick Facts and Definitions

- “What’s the meaning of ‘serendipity’?”
- “Who invented the light bulb?”
- “Tell me a fun fact.”

Educational Assistance

- “Solve 45 divided by 5.”
- “Spell ‘arachnophobia’.”
- “What’s Newton’s first law of motion?”

Whether you’re feeding your curiosity or helping kids with homework, your smart speaker makes learning fun and easy.

8. Customization and Routines

One of the smartest ways to use your device is by setting up voice routines.

Create Custom Routines

- “Good morning.” (Adjusts lights, reads the news, and starts the coffee machine)
- “Goodnight.” (Locks doors, dims lights, and turns off the TV)

Personalized Commands

You can create custom voice shortcuts, like:
- “Movie time.” (Turns off main lights, lowers thermostat, and starts Netflix)
- “Kids’ bedtime.” (Plays lullabies and dims lights in children’s rooms)

By setting up routines, your smart speaker becomes even more helpful.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Let Your Smart Speaker Go to Waste!

Your smart speaker is capable of so much more than just playing music. From keeping you organized to entertaining you, it’s a game-changer for daily life. By using the right voice commands, you can turn your device into the ultimate personal assistant.

So, why not start using these commands today? Your future self will thank you!