The Away Mode Alexa app is a humorous attempt to stop burglars

You can get smart lights and plugs to simulate you being home when you’re out, but that costs a lot of money.

The fix? If you have an Amazon Echo or Alexa-enabled speaker this new “Away Mode” skill by Hippo might be the saving grace that doesn’t break the bank. 

It goes a step further than a security system sign in the front yard. “Away Mode” plays conversations, recorded with real-life people — no AI-simulated voices here, folks. This is undoubtedly a lighter and more humorous approach to deterrence, as these conversations are awkward. 

Seven tracks are included at launch, ranging from a stay-at-home mom going insane to a couple breaking up while watching some TV. These titles echo a comedy sketch from Saturday Night Live or Conan, and rightfully so. All of these scenarios are from SNL, It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, and UCB writers. 

Each of the tracks all come it at around an hour long, so this skill won’t be a substitute for a week’s vacation but rather a quick errand or two. The theory behind these seems all right, as conversations could trick a burglar into thinking that someone is home when no one is. The description on the Away Mode website and Amazon page don’t promise results, but the developer is Hippo.

A 21st century take on home insurance, and it seems like while this a stunt for some free advertising, it is a funny one that delivers what could prove to be a useful skill. 

The reviews are mixed as well, noting that it is hit or miss at times. Either way, this is certainly a creative and funny skill. If you don’t have an Alexa-enabled speaker to install it on, Hippo’s site has snippets of all seven tracks.

Fingers crossed that Hippo will be drumming up some more tracks soon.