Alexa, Amazon’s virtual assistant, has become an integral part of many households. However, some users might not be aware that they can change Alexa’s wake word or name. Whether you want to personalize your Alexa experience or avoid confusion with a family member whose name sounds similar to “Alexa,” changing the wake word is a straightforward process. In this blog post, we will guide you through the steps on how to change Alexa’s name to something else of your choice.
Why Change Alexa’s Name?
Before diving into the process of changing Alexa’s name, it’s essential to understand why you might want to do so. Here are a few reasons:
- Personalization: Changing Alexa’s name allows you to give your virtual assistant a unique identity that resonates with you.
- Avoid Confusion: If you have a family member or friend with a name similar to “Alexa,” changing the wake word can prevent accidental activations.
- Privacy: Changing the wake word can add an extra layer of privacy to your interactions with Alexa by reducing the likelihood of unintentional activations.
Now that you know why changing Alexa’s name can be beneficial, let’s proceed to the step-by-step guide.
Step 1: Open the Alexa App
To begin the process, you’ll need to open the Alexa app on your smartphone or tablet. Ensure that you’re signed in to the Amazon account associated with your Alexa device.
Step 2: Access Settings
Once you’re in the Alexa app, tap on the menu icon (usually represented by three horizontal lines) in the upper-left corner. From the menu that appears, select “Settings.”
Step 3: Choose Your Device
In the Settings menu, select the specific Alexa device for which you want to change the wake word. Alexa devices can have different wake words, so make sure you choose the correct one.
Step 4: Wake Word
Scroll down the device settings until you find the “Wake Word” option. Tap on it to proceed.
Step 5: Select a New Wake Word
In the “Wake Word” section, you’ll see a list of available wake word options. As of my last knowledge update in September 2021, the options included “Alexa,” “Amazon,” “Echo,” and “Computer.” Choose the new wake word you prefer from the list.
Step 6: Confirm the Change
After selecting a new wake word, the app will ask you to confirm your choice. This step is crucial to avoid accidental changes. Confirm the change by tapping the appropriate button, usually labeled “Yes” or “Confirm.”
Step 7: Wait for Confirmation
Your Alexa device will take a moment to process the change. You’ll receive a confirmation message in the app when the wake word has been successfully updated.
Step 8: Start Using the New Wake Word
Once you receive confirmation, you can start using the new wake word immediately. Simply say the new wake word followed by your command to interact with Alexa.
Additional Tips and Considerations
Before we wrap up, here are some additional tips and considerations when changing Alexa’s name:
- Limited Wake Word Options: Keep in mind that Amazon provides a predefined list of wake word options, and you must choose from those options. While this list may expand over time, you might not be able to use any word you desire.
- Voice Training: After changing the wake word, consider performing a voice training session with your Alexa device. This helps improve voice recognition accuracy, especially if the new wake word is significantly different from the default “Alexa.”
- Multiple Alexa Devices: If you have multiple Alexa devices in your home, you can give each device a different wake word, making it easier to interact with specific devices.
- Compatibility: Ensure that your Alexa device is compatible with wake word changes. While most Alexa devices support this feature, older models might not have the option.
- Stay Updated: Amazon occasionally updates its Alexa app and devices, so it’s a good practice to check for any new wake word options or features related to wake word customization.
- Be Creative: When selecting a new wake word, get creative! Choose a word that is easy for you and your family to remember, and that reflects your preferences or interests.
- Test It Out: After changing the wake word, take some time to test it and ensure that Alexa responds accurately. If you encounter any issues, you can always go back to the app and make adjustments.
Steps to Change Alexa’s Name
| Step Number | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Open the Alexa App |
| 2 | Tap on the Devices Icon |
| 3 | Select Your Echo Device |
| 4 | Scroll Down and Tap on “Wake Word” |
| 5 | Choose a New Wake Word |
Compatible Wake Words for Alexa
| Wake Word |
|---|
| Alexa |
| Amazon |
| Echo |
| Computer |
| Ziggy |
Wake Word Considerations
| Consideration | Details |
|---|---|
| Natural Pronunciation | Choose a word that’s easy to say naturally. |
| Distinctiveness | Pick a word that’s distinct from common conversation. |
| Minimal Confusion | Avoid names similar to other household members. |
| Cultural Sensitivity | Be mindful of potential cultural or language issues. |
Devices that Support Wake Word Change
| Echo Device Model | Compatible with Wake Word Change |
|---|---|
| Echo Dot | Yes |
| Echo | Yes |
| Echo Show | Yes |
| Echo Plus | Yes |
| Echo Studio | Yes |
Troubleshooting Wake Word Change
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Unable to Change Wake Word | Ensure Alexa app is updated and device is connected. |
| Wake Word Not Responding | Try restarting the device and re-selecting the wake word. |
Conclusion
Changing Alexa’s name or wake word is a simple process that can enhance your interaction with Amazon’s virtual assistant. Whether you’re looking to personalize your experience, improve privacy, or avoid confusion, following the steps outlined in this guide will help you achieve your goal. Enjoy using your newly named Alexa device and make the most out of its capabilities! If you have any questions or encounter any issues, don’t hesitate to reach out to Amazon’s customer support for assistance.
