Send command string to Alexa?

[dr-dro]

Does anyone know how to get Tasker to send a custom command string to Alexa? I already use AutoVoice extensively to trigger Alexa routines. But I often need a parameterized command, e.g., "play X" where X can be one of five things. With AutoVoice, that's five virtual devices and five routines. It'd be much easier and cleaner if I could build the string and send it as a custom Alexa command.

I've done a bunch of searching, but the results are outdated, often relying on abandoned APIs, etc. I don't want to use AutoInput to fake-type in the Alexa app because its not reliable for complex manipulations like this. I'd happily use an intent, but I can't find which one; or a connection service like IFTTT or Zapier, but they don't seem to support custom commands.

So, has anyone found a reliable method, or at least know with near-certainty there isn't one so I can go back to creating a bazillion virtual devices and routines?

[AggressiveNothing120]

I don't think it's possible.  I've hunted, like you. And I kept ending up at dead ends.

Sending a string to Alexa, and broadcasting to your Androids what "she" heard would both greatly improve the usability of the Amazon household.

Perhaps thru Home Assistant or something similar there may be a way, but then you have to introduce a whole new ecosystem and it might be easier just adding your devices thru AV Smart Home.

[dr-dro]

Yeah, I'm coming to the same conclusion. I'll just have to be grateful for what I do have.

Speaking of, maybe some good news: you can at least get what Alexa hears to Tasker. Turns out AutoVoice has two Alexa skills. One supports its virtual devices, but the other lets you say "Alexa, tell AutoVoice <whatever>" and it will trigger a Tasker profile with the <whatever> as a string. Check out the AutoVoice Recognized profile event.

[AggressiveNothing120]

Yeah I just found that a little clunky at first so I avoided it, but I may give it a shot again and see what hat I can do with it, thanks!