[Note: This article contains easy-to-follow instructions for creating your own Amazon Echo IFTTT recipes and hacks!] Did you know that you can use your Amazon Echo voice commands with home automation smartthings, such as lights and thermostats, as well as to send an email or text, post to Facebook and Twitter, and much more? In addition to the onboard Amazon Echo features which will control home automation smart things, the Amazon Echo list of commands is nearly limitless when you use IFTTT recipes, which count as some of the best Amazon Echo features and hacks.

There are tons of Amazon Echo commands and things to try, such that building a comprehensive Amazon Echo command list or list of uses would be nearly impossible. But here are examples of our favorite features, including Amazon Echo tips and tricks, questions to ask, and Easter eggs. For example, did you know that your Amazon Echo can tell you jokes, recite quotes, track your to do list and shopping list, and even play Simon Says (sort of)?

As more and more people are finally getting their Amazon Echo, and more are wanting to order one, we offer our Amazon Echo series, including the unboxing, our review of the Echo and its features and uses, a list of commands for the Echo, and some tips and tricks for the Amazon Echo. This is part 1, with the unboxing, setup, and our initial review.