How to Set a Reminder With Alexa: By Voice or in the App
Have you ever walked into a room and forgotten why? A spoken reminder can help. A smart speaker such as an Amazon Echo can speak up at the right time, and you only need your voice.
What You Need
An Alexa-enabled device that is set up and connected to Wi-Fi. These steps follow Amazon’s help page as of October 2026. Screens can change slightly with app updates.
Set a Reminder With Your Voice
Say a command that starts with a reminder phrase. Amazon gives these examples:
- “Alexa, remind me to pick up dry cleaning.”
- “Alexa, make sure I call Janet at 4 p.m. today.”
Alexa announces the reminder on the device you spoke to.
Set a Reminder in the Alexa App
- Open the Alexa app on your phone.
- Tap More, then choose Reminders.
- Tap Add Reminder and type in the details.
- Choose which Alexa device should announce it.
You can only assign a reminder to someone who has an Alexa profile on the same Amazon account.
Good Ways to Use Reminders
Reminders work well for everyday things. You might ask for one about a phone call, an errand, or a walk. Say what you want and when, in plain words, just as you would to a person.
- Speak clearly and close to the speaker.
- Include the time if you want a specific one, like “at 4 p.m. today.”
- If a reminder does not sound when you expect, open the Alexa app and check it under Reminders.
Using a Google Nest Speaker Instead?
Google says its Nest speakers can give you reminders, timers and alarms. For the exact steps, use Google’s own Help Center page for your speaker.
Tips for Staying Safe
Do not put private details such as account numbers or passwords into a reminder. Keep it simple, like “take afternoon walk.” For medicines, reminders are a helpful nudge, but follow your doctor’s and pharmacist’s directions.
