Alexa can now connect you with local businesses

Alexa has been able to tell you the opening hours and phone numbers of local businesses since July, but a recent update means it can now actually place a call on your behalf. It doesn’t go quite as far as Google Duplex, which has Google’s voice assistant call businesses and talk to them on your behalf, but it should save you some time if you’re already using Alexa to search for your nearest Domino’s.

Alongside these local business additions, Alexa’s routines are getting a handful of new capabilities. You’ll now be able to have them make announcements or generate mobile notifications, automatically switch an Echo device into its Do Not Disturb mode, or stop audio playback.

That’s a lot of new functionality, and…

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Amazon’s new, water-resistant Kindle Paperwhite is up to $30 off

Amazon’s new Kindle Paperwhite is its best e-reader yet, with its IPX8 water resistance being reason enough for some to take the plunge. This model also supports Bluetooth, so you can connect headphones and listen to audiobooks via Audible. Despite releasing just a few months ago, we’re now seeing a few deals that make this worth considering over any other Kindle available, whether you planned on upgrading or not.

A few things to note before you check out the deals. These prices will last until December 20th, and the discounts only apply for Kindle options with special offers, meaning that Amazon will place ads on the lockscreen, though you can opt out for an additional $20 at the time of purchase, or after through the Kindle’s device…

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