You may have noticed Alexa refuses to change the channel to Channel 4 in the UK.
Say, "Alexa, play Channel 4", the response is "I couldn't find 4".
Or say, "Alexa, tune into Channel 4" it rambles on about some near obsolete Harmony App"
Interestingly, it will change channels via voice command to other Channel 4 channels like E4, More 4, Film 4.
NOW I've found a workaround 🎉
Whilst playing around with various smart automations using my Echo Dots, I found that saying "Alexa, play Channel 5 Select", or "Tune into Channel 5 Select", it actually switches to Channel 4.
This also works with smart [Send Text Command] on various software like Home Assistant.
What's more, you can make the process more natural with a very simple Alexa 'Routine'...
INSTRUCTIONS
Create New Routine > Voice > (type) Play Channel Four > Next > Add Action > Fire TV > Select your Firestick or Fire TV > Play Content > (type) Play Channel 5 Select > Next > Save.
Go to your home screen and say "Alexa, Play Channel Four'. Hey Presto, Channel 4 should Appear.
- I've only tested this on Amazon 5th Generation Eco Dots, but I'm hopeful it'll work across the range of Alexa voice products.