Using Third-Party Streaming Apps with the Garmin DriveSmart™ 65, 66, 76, 86 with Amazon Alexa

The Garmin DriveSmart™ 65, 66, 76, and 86 with Amazon Alexa are compatible with several music streaming services, e.g. Amazon Music, Sirius XM, Pandora, and iHeartRadio.

Amazon Alexa may not be able to control certain third-party media apps (e.g. Google Play, iTunes, Spotify), although they can be used to play audio through the device or through the vehicle stereo if connected. The Garmin DriveSmart™ 65, 66, 76, and 86 with Amazon Alexa will automatically adjust the music volume when they give navigation prompts, but Alexa cannot control media played through third-party apps; for example, if iTunes is in use, Alexa will not respond to commands to skip or replay songs.  Apple Music is not supported on these devices. 

The media player on the Garmin DriveSmart™ 65, 66, 76, and 86 with Amazon Alexa will display the song, artist and album information, and album cover. You may control the volume, pause or resume playback, and skip songs by touching the appropriate selections on the media player screen. However, playback must be started from the streaming app on the phone.

The  Bluetooth icon in the lower left corner of the media player indicates the song is being played over Bluetooth, but may not be controlled by Alexa.

To Play Media from a Third-Party App Through the Garmin Device:

1. Follow these linked instructions
   • Garmin DriveSmart™ 65 with Amazon Alexa Pairing with Your Smartphone
     • If desired, Connecting to the Vehicle Stereo
   • Garmin DriveSmart™ 66, 76, and 86 with Amazon Alexa Pairing with Your Smartphone
     • If desired, Connecting to the Vehicle Stereo
2. Open the third-party app (e.g. Google Play, iTunes, Spotify) on your smartphone and initiate the music by pressing play in the app

The audio will now play through the device or your vehicle's stereo.