Daniel J SaitOnkyo & Pioneer Corporation has released a firmware update for select Onkyo network AV components that enables voice control for compatible AV components via an Alexa device.
With this update, users can enjoy various music and audio streaming services, such as Amazon Music, through their speaker connected via Onkyo components, simply by asking Alexa.
For example, when asking Amazon Echo: “Alexa, play top pop music on Prime Music in the media room”, the component in the user’s media room will play top pop music from Amazon Prime Music.
Alexa is Amazon’s cloud-based voice service. With Amazon Echo devices or other Alexa-enabled devices, users can ask to play music, hear the news, check the weather, control smart home devices, and more.
The Works with Alexa certification program is designed to improve the responsiveness, reliability, and functionality of products so that users can comfortably use smart homes and accessory devices. For users, this means proof of a reliable product that works seamlessly with Alexa.
Use of streaming music services may require registration of separate membership, execution of service contracts and/or subscription fees, while use of smart home products may require compatible separate smart home hub products (sold separately).
Amazon Alexa is available for these models:
– Network AV receivers: TX-RZ840, TX-RZ740, TX-NR797, TX-NR696
– Network Stereo Receiver: TX-8390
Firmware can be downloaded and installed directly on network-connected components via the GUI, or downloaded to USB memory from the Onkyo website and installed via the receiver’s USB input.
Visit the Onkyo firmware support page to learn more or refer to this Voice Control Guide web for set up Works with Alexa feature.