Amazon is launching a new service for property managers called “Alexa for Residential” that makes it easier to deploy and manage voice-enabled devices and experiences in apartment buildings.
Residents don’t need to have an Amazon account, purchase any devices, or set up anything in an apartment, the company said in a blog post about the launch on Thursday. Those who do have an account can link it to access more expanded features such as playing their music and calling friends and family.
Smart home integrators IOTAS, STRATIS and Sentinent Property Services are the first to use the service. IOTAS is a Portland-based startup that raised $8.5 million last fall.
“Alexa for Residential goes beyond the smart home — it also enables properties to provide custom voice experiences for their residents, including information on amenities and custom services,” said Liron Torres, head of Smart Properties for Amazon Alexa.
Devices can be reset to default settings when residents move out and be used in vacant units to answer select questions or demo features available in the apartment.
Amazon says property managers do not have access to any customer data, and voice recordings are automatically deleted daily. If a customer links their personal Amazon account, they will have full control of their privacy settings as if the device was their own, with any preferences automatically applied.
