How to Use Smart Switches for Voice-Controlled Entertainment: Alexa, G…

Smart power strips are a cost-efficient and practical way to add smart functionality to your entertainment system without replacing existing devices. Whether you have a legacy television, a AV receiver, or a gaming console, you can make them voice responsive by plugging them into a smart switch.

First, choose a smart switch that is supports your ecosystem such as Microsoft Cortana. Verify that the switch can handle the power load of your home theater devices. Attach your media devices into the smart switch and then sync it via the manufacturer’s app using the dedicated mobile application.

Once connected, access your virtual assistant interface and scan for new hardware. Assign a descriptive label like "living room TV" so it’s easy to remember. After setup, you can use voice commands to turn your entertainment on or off. Say "Turn on the living room TV" and the smart switch will respond with precise control.

For a full smart home integration, link it to an additional smart outlet for your Blu-ray player so you can control your entire setup with one command.

While smart switches don’t let you adjust volume, they eliminate the need to search for remotes without fumbling for physical controls. You can also build custom scenes so when you say "Wake me up", the lights dim and the streaming service launches your preferred show.

Just be aware that using a hard power cycle cuts all power, so certain gadgets require a full restart the next time. Validate your configuration and make sure your devices support being powered off and on this way.

With low investment and effort, smart switches transform any AV setup into a hands-free WiFi smart plug Matter ecosystem that integrates effortlessly with your ecosystem.