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Orbi WiFi 7 RBE973
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Obri Voice, Alexa Shortcomings

pdeimling
Initiate

Obri Voice, Alexa Shortcomings

I was excited to add another mesh satellite AND get a "smart" speaker.  However I've discovered Alexa on my Orbi doesn't have the same tricks as my Echos (Studio, Plus, Dot, etc).  I can't get her to: Play Apple Music, Call ("Drop-in") on other rooms, etc. I'm told it's not supported on this device.

Is this a set-up thing?  I'm the guy most my friends go to for tech support, and I can't figure it out. So the only answer I can come up with is the Obbi Voice RBS40V has "Alexa Built-In" as advertised, but it's not "Full Alexa", if that makes sense.

 

Can anyone help? I'm hoping it's a software update... I'll return before Feb 8th for refund if I can't get it working. 

Model: RBS40V|Orbi Voice Add-on WiFi Satellite and Smart Speaker
Message 1 of 5
plemans
Guru

Re: Obri Voice, Alexa Shortcomings

Its because its not an amazon made device so it doesn't have the full alexa features. 

You can return it if you want but the other satellites are more expensive in comparision to the RBS40V. 

Message 2 of 5
pdeimling
Initiate

Re: Obri Voice, Alexa Shortcomings

Yeah, Thats the thing.... it's a cheaper add-on satellite than anything else.  Unless I seel ALL my Orbi and get a much cheaper/easier Google Mesh system and buy an extra Echo Plus and save a few dollars...

 

Message 3 of 5
plemans
Guru

Re: Obri Voice, Alexa Shortcomings

Up to you which route. 
I've used orbi for years and its worked great for me. Plus I have the alexa satellites and its nice for music. Stuck it in one of the bathrooms for "cover music" 🙂 

Message 4 of 5
givens34
Aspirant

Re: Obri Voice, Alexa Shortcomings

Last time I spoke with a Netgear tech on this same situation (my concern being calling to another Echo/Alexa device)... I was informed that they were working on firmware update to correct this.  That was 2-3 weeks ago.  Not sure if accurate statement or when this will be released?!?

Can someone from Netgear confirm?

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