Regarding reading and technology, Amazon has provided us with not one but two groundbreaking inventions: the Kindle, a dedicated e-book reader, and the Echo Show, an Alexa-powered smart display. However, many readers are left with a familiar yet pressing question, can I read Kindle books on Echo Show? While you can’t use the Echo Show screen to read Kindle books, you can use Echo Show to listen to them. This guide will walk you through the process and help you understand the unique reading experiences each device offers.
Introduction
Amazon has gone above and beyond to ensure that the Echo Show isn’t just a smart assistant but a tool for entertainment and learning. This device’s ability to handle Kindle books is a testament to this commitment. While the Echo Show cannot display e-book content like a Kindle device, it brings a unique spin to the experience – it can read the books to you using Alexa’s Text-to-Speech technology.
Getting Alexa to Read Your Kindle Books
You need to use the right command to have Alexa read your Kindle books on Echo Show. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how you can do that:
- Ensure Your Kindle Book is Compatible: Not all Kindle books are compatible with Alexa’s Text-to-Speech feature. You can check a book’s compatibility by visiting its product detail page on Amazon.
- Link Your Amazon Account: Your Echo Show needs to be connected to the same Amazon account your Kindle books are on. This can be checked and modified through the Alexa app.
- Command Alexa to Read Your Book: “Alexa, read [book title].” Make sure to replace [book title] with the actual title of your book. Alexa should then start reading the book out loud.
- Control the Reading: You can control the reading by using commands like “Alexa, stop,” “Alexa, pause,” “Alexa, resume,” or “Alexa, go back.” Check out the rest of the Alexa Kindle Commands.
Reading Experience on Echo Show
The Amazon Echo Show can’t visually display a Kindle book like an e-reader. However, it can read a Kindle book to you. Amazon’s Alexa, the intelligence behind Echo Show, can narrate Kindle books that support Text-to-Speech technology.
To get Alexa to read your Kindle book, give a command like, “Alexa, read [book title].” Ensure your Echo Show device is connected to the same Amazon account where your Kindle books are located. Remember that not all Kindle books are compatible with this feature, and it’s best to check a book’s compatibility on its Amazon product detail page.
So, while the Echo Show doesn’t provide a visual reading experience like a Kindle e-reader, it can transform your Kindle books into an audio experience, much like listening to an audiobook.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Alexa read faster or slower?
Yes, you can. Use the command “Alexa, read faster” or “Alexa, read slower” to adjust the reading speed to your liking.
Can I make Alexa read any book?
Alexa can read any Kindle book that supports Text-to-Speech. However, it can’t read physical books or PDFs.
Can Alexa read Kindle books with a specific voice?
Yes! Alexa will use whatever voice you have selected. You can change Alexa’s voice in the Alexa app.
Do I need to pay extra to have Alexa read my Kindle books?
No, this feature is included with your Echo Show at no extra charge. However, you do need to have purchased the Kindle book or have access to it through Kindle Unlimited or Prime Reading.
Summary
To wrap things up, you can’t read your Kindle books on the Echo Show screen, but you can read your Kindle books on Echo Show via Alexa. Although the experience isn’t visual like on a Kindle device, it adds a unique layer of convenience by turning any compatible Kindle book into an impromptu audiobook. Whether you’re busy with household chores or want to rest your eyes, Echo Show’s ability to read your Kindle books out loud can be a game-changer. All it takes is a simple voice command to get started.
Learn more about Alexa in the Alexa Archives.
