Triggering Alexa Routines with a Virtual Switch

Alexa routines can only be triggered from a sensor at this time. The sensor can be either virtual or physical. So most people looking for a virtual device will use a special DTH which shows up as both a sensor and a switch. That way when you turn on the switch the sensor looks like it opened, when you turn off the switch, the sensor looks like it closed.

This worked great right up through March 2020. Here is the FAQ on how to do it including the code you will need for the DTH:

FAQ: Can I trigger an Echo Action without Speaking to It?

However, in April 2020 this broke for many people when the new smart things skill was released. :disappointed_relieved: since then it has been on and off, working for some people, not working for others, coming and going. Discussion of all of that in the following thread:

New SmartThings Alexa skill (2020)

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