AT&T Announce Their Customers Can Send Texts with Amazon Echo

US Communications giant AT&T have announced that AT&T customers using Alexa enabled Amazon devices will now have the “Skill” to send text messages using the voice assistant, found on the Echo and Echo Dot voice controlled speakers.

From AT&T News Room:

AT&T is launching a skill on Amazon’s Alexa-enabled devices that lets you send a text message simply by talking. Customers can get the AT&T Send Message skill starting Nov. 18. Customers can also buy Amazon Echo and Echo Dot that day at www.att.com and AT&T retail stores. Amazon Echo is available for $179 and Echo Dot can be purchased for $49.

Skills are voice-driven capabilities that enhance the functionality of Alexa devices, including Amazon Echo and Echo Dot. Alexa is Amazon’s cloud-based voice service, to play music, provide information, news, sports scores, weather, and now the AT&T Send Message skill.1 AT&T is the first carrier to offer this skill that lets you send text messages from your mobile number to your predetermined list of contacts that will recognize you.

The AT&T Send Message skill is ideal if you’re in a hurry or busy with your hands. Just ask Alexa to have AT&T text your friend and then Alexa will prompt you to say your text message. You can add up to ten frequent contacts to the skill so can send them text messages without typing on your smartphone.

Jeff Bradley the Device and Network Services Marketing senior vice president was quoted as saying “Amazon Echo is ahead of the curve in terms of voice recognition technology and functionality AT&T is the first carrier to bring this unique skill to a product already known for innovation.
“We’re always working to bring simple solutions for our customers to stay in touch. In the tradition of NumberSync, another solution that was introduced at AT&T first, the Send Message Skill gives our customers another easy and convenient way to communicate.”

For more information on the Send Message skill visit www.att.com/SendMessageSkill starting this Friday.