How the follow-up answer works
Some Alexa actions are interactive. The first command starts the action, then Alexa asks for more information before it can continue. Typical examples include a security PIN for a gate or garage, a name, a time, or another short value.
Buttons for Alexa handles this inside a single saved routine: the normal command is sent first, then the predefined response recorded in Optional answer to Alexa is sent as the second part of that interaction. The app does not generate a dynamic conversational answer; it reuses the response you recorded.
Example: opening a gate with a PIN
Main command: “Open the gate”
Optional answer to Alexa: “1234”
You keep both parts in the same saved Buttons for Alexa routine.
Configure it step by step
Open the existing routine
Open the Buttons for Alexa routine that sends the first command, for example “Open the gate”.
Open Advanced settings
Scroll to or expand the Advanced section in the routine settings.
Configure “Optional answer to Alexa”
Use Optional answer to Alexa to record the second response Alexa expects, such as a PIN, security code, name or time.
Save and test the complete interaction
Save the action and test it from Buttons for Alexa. Confirm that Alexa accepts the initial command and then accepts the predefined optional answer that the app sends as the second response.
What can be used as the optional answer?
- PIN or security code — for an Alexa action that asks for authorization.
- Name — when Alexa asks which person, room, profile or item you mean.
- Time — when a command starts a flow that requests a time value.
- Another short spoken answer — whenever Alexa needs one additional response after the first command.
If Alexa does not accept the optional answer
First test the same interaction by voice directly with Alexa so you know exactly what Alexa asks and what response it accepts. Then check that the main command and Optional answer to Alexa contain the same phrases you successfully use by voice.
If the first command itself does not work, troubleshoot that command before the optional answer. See routine troubleshooting.
FAQ
How do I send a PIN after Alexa asks for it?
Open the saved routine in Buttons for Alexa, expand Advanced and record the PIN in Optional answer to Alexa. The app uses that recorded answer as the second response after the initial Alexa command.
Can Optional answer to Alexa be used for something other than a PIN?
Yes. It is intended for any Alexa flow that asks for a second input, for example a security code, a name, a time or another short spoken response.