How to Set Up Alta Smart Shades with Somfy Remote, App, and Alexa

In this guide, we walk you through installing and setting up motorized smart shades from Alta Blinds. This includes configuring the Somfy remote, using the MyLink mobile app, creating schedules and favorite scenes, and adding Alexa voice control. The installation was done in a new home featuring a three-panel sliding glass door with two Somfy-powered motors controlling the shades. Here’s how it all came together.

Smart Shades Setup Overview

• Shade Layout: Two motors – one covers two-thirds of the sliding doors; the other covers the remaining third.
• Cost Efficiency: Using two motors instead of three saved approximately $250.
• Power Choice: Battery-powered motors using 24 AA batteries total (8 for one motor, 16 for the other).
• Battery Life: Up to 1 year, with annual operating cost around $10 when buying batteries in bulk.

Using the Somfy Remote

The remote has five channels, each capable of controlling individual or grouped shades:

• Up & Down Buttons: Raise or lower the shades.
• My Button: Stops motion or returns to the preset favorite position.
• LED Indicators: Each of the four LEDs represents a channel; all four on = fifth channel (group).
• Channel Select: Toggle between shades or groups for customized control.

Setting a Favorite Position

1. Move the shades to your preferred partial open position (e.g., one-third down).
2. Select the fifth channel (all LEDs on).
3. Hold the “My” button until both shades jog (move briefly up and down).

Now pressing “My” will return your shades to that favorite position any time.

Somfy MyLink App Setup

1. Download the MyLink app from Google Play or the App Store.
2. Plug in the Somfy RTS module ($200 on Amazon) near the shades.
3. Use a paperclip to press the button on the module until the LED turns green.
4. Name each blind (e.g., Right, Left, Both) in the app and assign them to channels.
5. Create scenes like “Close Both Shades” or “Open Left Shade.”

Scheduling and Automation

Within the app, you can schedule scenes to activate at specific times. For example:

• Close Shades: Every day at sunset.
• Open Shades: Every day at 8:00 a.m.

Alexa Voice Control

1. Open the Alexa app, go to “Skills & Games.”
2. Search for “Somfy MyLink” and enable the skill.
3. Link your MyLink account and discover devices.
4. Now you can say commands like Alexa, lower both shades or include them in routines.

This setup gives you complete control of your window coverings using a remote, your smartphone, and voice assistants. It’s flexible, energy-efficient, and easy to use once installed.

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