Amazon has updated its Alexa app to support free audio calls to Echo and Echo Dot devices.
The nifty functionality, which has been available in the United States since May 2017, lets Echo owners make VOIP phone calls to other Echo speakers.
Users can place voice calls with an Echo, Echo Dot, or from within the Alexa companion on iOS and Android.
“Making calls with Alexa is easy,” Amazon promises on its product page.
“Once you’ve synced your contacts in the Alexa App, just ask Alexa to place a call.
“Alexa will let you know when someone is calling, and a green light ring will appear on your supported Echo device.
“You can ask Alexa to answer or ignore the call.”
In addition to calling, Echo owners can use voice assistant Alexa to send and receive instant messages, too.
Just ask to send a message, then tell Alexa what to say and she’ll send it.
Echo owners will hear a chime when they have received a new message, and a yellow light ring will appear on the device.
Users will also be notified in the Alexa App.