Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Is the skill name I want available?
A. It depends. You can search the skill store to see if your name is taken, or anything like it, here: https://www.amazon.com/b?node=13727921011
If it is not taken, it may be available, if it’s not in the process of being taken. Amazon is impartial: they approve skills as they are submitted and once the name is taken, it is taken. So as long as your desired name is not in the store, or in que to be approved, it is likely available. We will submit the name you desire and if it is taken, consider your 2nd and 3rd options. Please note Amazon will not accept a name until the skill is approved and ready for submission, so it comes at the end of the development process, not the beginning.
Q. Can I have more than one skill for the same station?
A. You can only have one skill by the same name, and you can only have a live stream associated with one skill. So, you could not for example, have 3 skills called Rock 101, Rock 101.1 and Rock 101 Antown all playing the same stream. Therefore it’s important to pick your one favorite name to try first. Update: in recent days Amazon has been allowing now only two skills with the same name, but multiple skills with the same source (stream). So for now at least, you COULD release multiple skills with various names and the same stream. For example, you could release Sunny 108, Sunny 108FM and Sunny 108 Anytown as redundant skills. However, this is an ever-changing landscape and Amazon may change their rules at any time.
Q. Can I have a skill that plays podcasts instead of a stream?
A. Yes you can. As long as your podcast has a valid RSS feed, this can be done.
FAQQ. Can I combine several options into one skill?
A. Yes, for an additional charge you can have a menu system that allows users to pick multiple options, such as live stream, on-demand files such as a show archive, news & weather updates or a podcast. We will quote you for a custom skill once we know your desired scope.
FAQQ. How long does it take to get my skill published?
A. We strive to finish all skills within 7 days. If you own an Alexa device we will invite you to test the skill on your device before it is final. Once you approve, we submit it to the Skill store. Amazon can take anywhere from 3 days to 2 weeks to approve a skill, which we cannot control.
FAQ