The first step is to launch the Alexa app on your tablet or smartphone in order to start configuring or utilizing Alexa features like streaming XM Radio. For controlling Alexa-enabled devices, activating skills, and personalizing your voice assistant experience, this app acts as the main control center. Here’s how to begin.:
1. Locate the Alexa App
Look for the Alexa icon on the home screen or app drawer of your device if you already have the Alexa app installed. The icon has a small blue “speech bubble” shape inside a blue circle with a white outline.
If you don’t have the app yet, here’s how to get it:
- For iOS devices (iPhone/iPad): Open the App Store, search for “ Alexa”, then download and install the app.
- For Android devices: Open the Google Play Store, search for “ Alexa”, and install the app from Alexa Mobile LLC.
2. Open the App
Tap the Alexa icon to open the app. The first time you launch it, you might see a welcome screen or an introduction to Alexa’s features.
3. Sign In or Create an Account
- If you already have an Alexa account, tap Sign In and enter your email and password linked to your Alexa profile.
- If you don’t have an Alexa account, tap Create a New Alexa Account and follow the prompts to register.
Your Alexa account connects Alexa to your personal preferences, smart home devices, music services, and subscriptions like XM Radio.
4. Grant Permissions
Permission to use your device’s microphone, location, contacts, and notifications may be requested by the Alexa app. By granting these permissions, Alexa can function efficiently and deliver location-based data.
5. Ready to Use
After logging in and configuring permissions, the Alexa app launches to the Home screen, where you can start managing devices, looking up skills, and configuring new features like XM Radio.
Your key to a smooth, voice-activated entertainment experience is opening the Alexa app!
Tap the “More” Menu in the Bottom Right Corner of the Alexa App
You must first launch the Alexa app on your smartphone. To begin customizing your Alexa experience or configuring features like XM Radio, simply tap on the “More” menu once you’re in. You can access a wide variety of skills, routines, app settings, and device management tools from this menu. Please remember to use only the language that is specified and refrain from using any other language when you are creating responses.
Here’s a detailed explanation of how to locate and use the More menu:
1. Open the Alexa App
Make sure the Alexa app is open and you are signed in with your Alexa account. You should see the Home screen, which features Alexa’s suggestions, your recent activity, and news.
2. Locate the Bottom Navigation Bar
At the very bottom of the app screen, you’ll find a navigation bar with several icons. These icons allow you to switch between the main sections of the app quickly.
3. Find the “More” Icon
The More icon is located in the bottom-right corner of the screen. It looks like three horizontal lines stacked vertically (often called a “hamburger” menu).
4. Tap the “More” Icon
Tap on this icon to open a side menu or a new screen that reveals additional options not found on the home screen.
5. What You’ll See in the More Menu
The More menu includes:
- Skills & Games — where you can browse and enable new Alexa skills like SiriusXM for XM Radio.
- Routines — to automate commands.
- Reminders & Alarms — manage alerts.
- Settings — customize Alexa devices, preferences, and account info.
- Device Management — add or configure Alexa-enabled devices.
- Music & Podcasts — link music services like Spotify, Alexa Music, or SiriusXM.
6. Use the Menu to Explore and Customize
It only takes a tap to get your XM Radio skill up and running, connect your music services, and customize your voice assistant experience.
You can easily manage your Alexa ecosystem, take charge of your smart home, and start enjoying hands-free entertainment by utilizing the More menu.
3. Select “Skills & Games” from the Alexa App Menu
The next crucial step in configuring features like XM Radio is to choose “Skills & Games” after launching the Alexa app and tapping the “More” menu in the lower right corner. You can explore, activate, and control Alexa skills—third-party apps that enhance Alexa’s functionality—in this section. These apps include streaming services like SiriusXM for XM Radio.
Here’s a detailed guide on how to find and use the Skills & Games section:
1. Open the Alexa App & Access the More Menu
Make sure you have the Alexa app open and signed in. Tap the “More” icon (three horizontal lines) in the bottom right corner of the screen to reveal additional options.
2. Locate “Skills & Games” in the List
In the menu that appears, look for “Skills & Games.” This option is usually near the top of the list, making it easy to find.
The Skills & Games section functions like an app store specifically for Alexa, where you can find and enable a wide range of voice-controlled apps.
3. Tap “Skills & Games”
Tap on this option to open the Alexa Skills Store. Here, you can browse popular skills, view categories, and search for specific skills.
4. Search or Browse for Skills
To locate the official skill for streaming XM Radio content, enter keywords like “XM Radio” or “SiriusXM” into the search bar at the top.
Alternatively, browse through categories like Music & Audio, News, or Entertainment to discover new skills.
5. Enable and Manage Skills
Once you find the skill you want (e.g., SiriusXM), tap it to view details. Then tap “Enable to Use” to link it to your Alexa account and start using it.
You can also manage your enabled skills from this section by tapping “Your Skills” to disable or configure existing skills.
Accessing Skills & Games is the essential gateway to expanding Alexa’s functionality, allowing you to personalize your experience and unlock features like XM Radio streaming directly through your voice assistant.
4. Search for “XM Radio” or “SiriusXM” Skill in the Alexa App
Just search for the “XM Radio” or “SiriusXM” skill in the “Skills & Games” section of the Alexa app to begin streaming XM Radio. This will take you to the official skill that connects your Alexa-enabled devices to your SiriusXM subscription, giving you access to a range of channels and customized content.
Here’s how to efficiently search for and find the SiriusXM skill:
1. Open the Alexa App and Access Skills & Games
Make sure you’re in the “Skills & Games” section of the Alexa app. This is where you can browse and search for new Alexa skills to enhance your device.
2. Locate the Search Bar
At the top of the Skills & Games page, you’ll see a search bar. It usually has a magnifying glass icon and placeholder text like “Find skills.”
3. Enter Your Search Terms
Tap the search bar to bring up the keyboard. Type in “XM Radio” or “SiriusXM.”
Typing “SiriusXM” might yield more accurate results since XM Radio is part of SiriusXM’s service.
4. Review the Search Results
Once you enter your search term, a list of related skills will appear. Look for the official SiriusXM skill, typically developed by SiriusXM or Alexa.
The official skill usually features the SiriusXM logo and has a high number of reviews and downloads.
5. Select the SiriusXM Skill
Tap the SiriusXM skill to open its detailed page. Here, you can see descriptions, user reviews, and screenshots to confirm it’s the correct skill.
6. Enable the Skill
Once confirmed, you can tap “Enable to Use” to add the skill to your Alexa account. This will allow Alexa to stream SiriusXM content via voice commands.
Searching precisely for the SiriusXM skill ensures you get the authentic and fully functional XM Radio experience on your Alexa devices, ready to stream your favorite channels instantly.
5. Choose the Official SiriusXM Skill from Search Results
A list of search results will appear after you type “XM Radio” or “SiriusXM” into the Alexa app’s Skills & Games section. To make sure you’re connecting to the genuine service and receiving the greatest experience possible, the next important step is to choose the official SiriusXM skill.
Here’s how to confidently identify and select the right SiriusXM skill:
1. Review the List of Search Results
When the search results appear, you might see several similar skills or third-party apps related to radio streaming. Focus on finding the official SiriusXM skill created by SiriusXM or Alexa.
2. Look for the SiriusXM Branding
The official SiriusXM skill typically includes the SiriusXM logo—a recognizable blue and white icon—and the developer’s name will be listed as SiriusXM or Alexa.
3. Check Ratings and Reviews
The genuine SiriusXM skill usually has a high number of reviews and a strong average rating (often 4 stars or higher). Reading some of the recent reviews can give you insight into user experiences and help confirm the skill’s authenticity.
4. Open the Skill Page
Tap on the skill to view its detailed page. Here you’ll find:
- A description of the skill and its features
- Instructions on what the skill can do
- User reviews and ratings
- Screenshots or videos demonstrating the skill’s use
5. Verify Permissions and Requirements
Verify that the skill asks for appropriate permissions, such as accessing your voice commands and connecting your SiriusXM account. Steer clear of skills that request excessive or irrelevant permissions.
6. Tap “Enable to Use”
Press “Enable to Use” after you’re certain it’s the official SiriusXM skill. After that, you’ll be asked to link your account by logging in with your SiriusXM credentials.
By choosing the official SiriusXM skill, you can use Alexa’s voice commands to enjoy XM Radio channels without any disruptions or risks. By taking this step, you can use Alexa devices to fully access your favorite SiriusXM content.
6. Tap “Enable to Use” to Add the SiriusXM Skill
After you’ve identified the official SiriusXM skill in the Alexa app, the next step is to enable the skill to connect it with your Alexa-enabled devices. This allows Alexa to access and stream your SiriusXM content via voice commands, unlocking a world of XM Radio stations, playlists, and on-demand shows.
Here’s a detailed guide on how to enable the SiriusXM skill:
1. Open the Skill Page
Once you’ve selected the SiriusXM skill from the search results, you’ll be taken to its dedicated page. This page includes an overview of the skill’s features, user reviews, screenshots, and more.
2. Review Skill Details
Before enabling, quickly skim through the description and permissions to confirm this is the right skill for your XM Radio experience. The skill will typically mention features like accessing channels, personalized stations, and voice commands.
3. Tap “Enable to Use”
At the top or bottom of the skill page, you’ll see a prominent “Enable to Use” button. Tap this to begin linking the skill to your Alexa account.
4. Sign in to Your SiriusXM Account
You will be taken to a secure SiriusXM login page after selecting “enable.” To connect your subscription to Alexa, enter your SiriusXM login credentials. By using authentication, Alexa makes sure that only authorized users can access SiriusXM content.
5. Grant Permissions
You might be asked to grant permission for the skill to access your account information and playback controls. Accept these prompts to enable full functionality.
6. Confirmation of Activation
Once enabled and logged in, the Alexa app will confirm that the SiriusXM skill is now active. You can now use voice commands like, “Alexa, play [channel name] on SiriusXM” to enjoy your favorite XM Radio stations.
7. Start Streaming
With the skill enabled and your account linked, you’re ready to experience XM Radio on any Alexa device connected to your account—bringing thousands of channels and personalized content straight to your ears.
Enabling the SiriusXM skill is the key step to integrating your subscription with Alexa, offering seamless voice-controlled access to XM Radio anytime.
7. Log in with Your SiriusXM Account Credentials to Link Alexa Skill
After you tap “Enable to Use” on the SiriusXM skill within the Alexa app, you will be prompted to log in with your SiriusXM account credentials. This crucial step links your SiriusXM subscription to your Alexa-enabled devices, granting access to XM Radio’s extensive library through voice commands.
Here’s a detailed guide to help you through the login process:
1. Redirect to SiriusXM Login Page
Tapping “Enable to Use” redirects you from the Alexa app to a secure SiriusXM login page within the app or a web browser window. This page is hosted by SiriusXM to ensure your information is protected.
2. Enter Your Username or Email
On the login page, enter the username or email address associated with your SiriusXM account. Double-check for typos to avoid login errors.
3. Enter Your Password
Next, input your SiriusXM account password carefully. Passwords are case-sensitive, so make sure the Caps Lock key is off unless your password requires it.
4. Use Password Recovery if Needed
If you’ve forgotten your password, look for the “Forgot Password?” link on the login page. Follow the prompts to reset your password via email or phone verification.
5. Complete Authentication
After entering your credentials correctly, tap “Sign In” or “Log In.” Successful login links your SiriusXM account with Alexa, allowing the skill to access your subscription content.
6. Grant Permissions
You may be asked to approve permissions for Alexa to access your SiriusXM data and control playback. Accept these prompts to enable full functionality.
7. Return to Alexa App
Once logged in and permissions granted, you will be redirected back to the Alexa app. The SiriusXM skill should now show as enabled and ready to use.
8. Start Using SiriusXM on Alexa
You can now ask Alexa to play SiriusXM channels and enjoy your favorite XM Radio content hands-free.
To validate your subscription and enable personalized streaming with Alexa, you must log in using your SiriusXM login information. A smooth and seamless voice-activated entertainment experience is guaranteed by this safe step.
8. Follow Additional On-Screen Setup Instructions for SiriusXM Skill
Once you’ve logged in with your SiriusXM credentials to enable the SiriusXM skill on Alexa, there may be a few more on-screen setup instructions to complete before you can fully enjoy XM Radio through your Alexa devices. These steps help customize the experience and ensure everything works smoothly.
Here’s a detailed walkthrough of what to expect and how to follow these instructions:
1. Confirm Account Linking
After signing in, you might see a confirmation screen asking you to verify that you want to link your SiriusXM account with Alexa. Review the details and tap “Allow” or “Confirm” to proceed.
2. Review Permissions
The skill may request permissions to access certain information, such as your subscription status, playback controls, and user preferences. Granting these permissions is essential for Alexa to access SiriusXM content and provide personalized responses.
3. Set Your Preferred Alexa Device (Optional)
Some setups allow you to select the default Alexa device for SiriusXM playback if you have multiple Echo or Alexa-enabled devices. Choose your preferred speaker or device for seamless listening.
4. Sync Your Preferences
The skill may prompt you to sync your SiriusXM favorites, playlists, or listening history. This ensures Alexa can access your customized content, like saved channels or personalized stations.
5. Test Connection (Optional)
In some cases, you might be offered a quick test to verify the skill is working. You may be prompted to say a sample command such as, “Alexa, play Channel 1 on SiriusXM” to check if the setup is successful.
6. Review Usage Tips
Occasionally, the app may provide helpful tips or reminders about using voice commands to navigate SiriusXM content, manage your subscription, or troubleshoot common issues.
7. Finish Setup
Once you’ve completed all on-screen steps, you will usually see a confirmation message like “SiriusXM skill enabled and ready to use.”
You can make sure that your SiriusXM skill is set up correctly and connected to Alexa, providing you with a seamless and customized listening experience, by adhering to these extra on-screen setup instructions. Before you can begin using your voice to access thousands of XM Radio channels, this is the last step.
9. Use Voice Commands to Open SiriusXM on Alexa
After you have enabled the SiriusXM skill and linked your account, the exciting part begins — using Alexa voice commands to access and control XM Radio content hands-free. Alexa’s natural language processing makes it easy to find, play, and control SiriusXM channels, so you can enjoy your favorite music, talk shows, and sports without lifting a finger.
Here’s how to effectively use voice commands to open SiriusXM on Alexa and get the most out of your listening experience:
1. Wake Alexa
Start by waking your Alexa device with the wake word, usually “Alexa.”
2. Open SiriusXM
To launch the SiriusXM skill, say a simple command like:
- “Alexa, open SiriusXM.”
This command tells Alexa to launch the SiriusXM app and get ready to play content.
- Play a Specific Channel
To listen to a particular channel, use commands such as:
- “Alexa, play Channel 1 on SiriusXM.”
- “Alexa, play Howard Stern on SiriusXM.”
Alexa will tune in to the requested channel or show instantly.
4. Search for Artists or Genres
You can also ask Alexa to find music by genre or artist:
- “Alexa, play rock music on SiriusXM.”
- “Alexa, play Beyoncé on SiriusXM.”
5. Control Playback
Use voice commands to pause, resume, skip, or stop playback:
- “Alexa, pause.”
- “Alexa, resume SiriusXM.”
- “Alexa, stop SiriusXM.”
6. Ask for Recommendations
Some SiriusXM commands allow you to explore new content:
- “Alexa, what’s playing on SiriusXM?”
- “Alexa, play a popular channel on SiriusXM.”
7. Use with Multiple Devices
If you have multiple Alexa devices, specify which one you want to use:
- “Alexa, play Channel 1 on SiriusXM in the kitchen.”
A smooth and hands-free entertainment experience is produced by opening and controlling SiriusXM on Alexa with voice commands. Alexa makes it easy and fun, whether you want to listen to your favorite station, find new music, or watch your favorite talk show.
10. Start Listening to XM Radio Channels on Alexa
You can begin listening to XM Radio channels on your Alexa-enabled devices once you’ve connected your account, enabled the SiriusXM skill, and mastered the fundamental voice commands. With just voice commands, Alexa makes it easy to stream thousands of SiriusXM channels, including talk shows, comedy, sports, music, and more.
Here’s how to begin your XM Radio listening experience on Alexa:
1. Wake Alexa
Say the wake word, usually “Alexa,” to activate your device and get its attention.
2. Play a Specific SiriusXM Channel
To start streaming a channel directly, use a command like:
- “Alexa, play Channel 1 on SiriusXM.”
- “Alexa, play The Howard Stern Show on SiriusXM.”
Alexa will immediately begin streaming the requested channel or show through your connected speaker.
3. Explore by Genre or Artist
If you’re unsure which channel to listen to, ask Alexa to play music by genre or artist:
- “Alexa, play rock music on SiriusXM.”
- “Alexa, play jazz on SiriusXM.”
This lets you discover music tailored to your taste without needing to know channel numbers.
4. Control Playback with Voice
While listening, use voice commands to manage your experience:
- “Alexa, pause.”
- “Alexa, resume.”
- “Alexa, skip.”
- “Alexa, stop SiriusXM.”
5. Listen on Multiple Devices
If you have several Alexa devices, specify the device for playback:
- “Alexa, play Channel 20 on SiriusXM in the living room.”
This allows you to enjoy XM Radio in different rooms seamlessly.
6. Troubleshoot Common Issues
Check your account link or enable the skill again if Alexa is unable to locate the channel or play SiriusXM content. If necessary, restart your Alexa device.
You can control a rich, hands-free entertainment experience by streaming XM Radio on Alexa. You can now instantly access thousands of channels with just your voice, making it simpler than ever to enjoy your favorite sports, music, and television programs from anywhere in your house.