Can Google Home and Alexa Work Together?

Let's discuss some of the differences between Amazon Alexa and Google Home, how they work in tandem, and what other capabilities these devices have to make your home smarter and your life easier.

Amazon Alexa vs. Google Home

With the increased use of voice assistants in homes across the world, it's no wonder why consumers will have a challenging time deciding which digital voice assistant is best suited for their homes. Amazon Alexa and Google Home technologies continue developing and making life easier for the average homeowner.

More commonly known as Alexa, Amazon Alexa is software created by Amazon integrated with the Amazon Echo line of devices. Alexa is a virtual assistant that responds to a plethora of voice commands. It also learns about you over time to provide more human-like interactions.

On the other hand, Google Home is a smart hub compatible with other Google-powered devices like Nest cams and thermostats and Google Chromecast. Google Home can also provide users with quick access to Google searches and multiple other commands.

Both of these devices come with similar features and capabilities. They're essentially smart home hubs that can help you order groceries, turn on the television or lights, or listen to your favorite tunes at an acceptable volume, among other things.

Can Google Home and Alexa Work Together?

Some customers may be wondering: "Can Google Home and Amazon Alexa work together?" Or maybe, "Can you add Echo Dot to the Google Home app?"

To put it simply, yes. You can use Alexa and Google Home or Google Mini under the same roof. The most straightforward way to connect these devices is to have them all under the same command center, which we'll mention later.

This way, you can control the different features and a string of voice commands that will benefit most from each device.

Can You Connect Google Home to Alexa?

Apps such as IFTTT or Yeti are perfect for connecting all your devices for ease of use. Downloading these apps has eliminated the need to operate each device individually. However, you can pair Alexa to your Google Home by following these instructions:

1. To prepare both devices for pairing with a voice command, use "Pair Bluetooth" on both Google Home and Alexa.
   

2. Open Devices in your Alexa app.

3. Select Add Device, or the plus "+" button on the top-right corner of the app, to add a new device.
   

4. Scroll down until you are able to select Other Device. Then, select Discover Devices.
   

5. Alexa should recognize your Google Home, and you can connect using Bluetooth. This may take a couple of minutes.
   

Tips for Using Google Home and Alexa

After you complete these steps, you can speak to Alexa, and it will respond using your Google Home device.

It's best to place each of your devices in a separate area to prevent any instances where they begin communicating with each other.

Suppose you want a Google Home for your kitchen, where you can play music while cooking and working on a new recipe. It may be wise to place your Alexa in your bedroom, where you can set alarms to help you wake up for your workday.

Both devices essentially "wake up" when the accompanying wake word is spoken, so you can use them to accomplish different tasks simultaneously.

Can You Play Music on Google Home and Alexa Together?

Yes, you can play music on Google Home and Alexa simultaneously. Using the directions above to connect your devices to Bluetooth, you can use the products as speakers via each app.

To group your speakers through Amazon Alexa, follow the instructions below.

1. Open your Alexa app and choose Devices.
   

2. Select the plus (+) icon in the top right corner and click Combine Speakers.
   

3. Choose Set Up Multi-Room Music to group your speakers. You will then be given the option to name your speakers.
   

4. You can now send audio to your group with your voice or the Alexa app.
   

Music Streaming Options for Alexa and Google Home

While you may not want two songs playing simultaneously, both devices have music streaming options that work for every type of consumer.

Alexa can play:

• Apple Music/Podcasts
• Amazon Music
• Spotify
• iHeartRadio
• Tidal
• SiriusXM
• Pandora
• Deezer
• Vevo

Depending on your location, you may be able to stream music from other services, too.

Google Home can play:

• YouTube Music
• Apple Music
• Spotify
• iHeartRadio
• TuneIn
• Pandora
• Deezer

Again, your location may determine what other music services you'll be able to access on your Google Home. Remember, each device can stream music with a simple voice command, as long as you say the right wake word.

Suppose you have both an Amazon Alexa and a Google Home setup. In that case, you'll be able to use both seamlessly, especially if you use a third-party app.

Using Smart Devices in Tandem

Imagine you're cooking a new recipe and need to set timers with Alexa. You can set a timer with Alexa and stream your favorite songs on Google Home simultaneously. Using these devices together often provides better results than using them individually.

If you find yourself stuck between the two devices, consider using both to improve your life at home.