Did you ask Alexa?
Experimenting with voice interfaces
It’s been about two weeks since Google released their Home device in the United States. I have to admit, it looks good, it works well, and it definitely competes with the Amazon Echo on several levels.
One thing still remains the key difference between the two: Echo’s ability to produce custom interactions. The Amazon Echo has a vast library of custom Alexa Skills available for users to install on their account. Currently the Google Home device does not, but that will change come December.
In the meantime, we’re continuing to write Alexa Skills, and our plan is to jump into Actions for Google as soon as they go live sometime this month.
We currently have a couple of Alexa Skills in the Amazon library, and one that is specific to finding some fun in our hometown of Austin, Texas.
If you are interested in Alexa Skill development, it isn’t hard at all to get started. Check out this three-part series by thirteen23 Tech Director, Tom Hudson:
Also, in March of 2017, thirteen23 will be hosting a SXSW Workshop on Alexa Skill development, open to everyone regardless of coding experience. If you’re planning on attending SXSW Interactive, come check it out!
thirteen23 is a product design studio in Austin, Texas. Together with our clients, we conceive, design, and develop intelligent software. Ready to build the next big thing? Let’s talk.
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