Amazon Echo Alexa device might not be responding due to connectivity issues or microphone settings. Ensure your device is connected to the internet by checking your Wi-Fi. Restart your Alexa and your router. If the issue persists, open the Alexa app, navigate to Devices > Echo & Alexa > [Your Device], and ensure it has the latest firmware updates. Also, verify that the microphone is not muted and test the device with another voice command. For more detailed troubleshooting, refer to the Alexa Help & Customer Support.

Now, let's get into more detail about common Alexa echo problems:

How to fix Alexa not responding to voice commands issue?

Method 1: Ask Alexa Echo your question again and this time speak louder! 

While it sounds ridiculous, voice recognition issues could be because the Amazon Echo Alexa device simply didn’t catch your question!

Echo devices have integrated omnidirectional microphones so in theory they can catch voice commands from 360 degrees and a decent distance. 

My experience is somewhat different! I have an Amazon Echo speaker installed above a kitchen wall cabinet which regularly misses questions I ask and I typically need to shout the question at her!

I really should just move the device, so it’s in a more direct “earshot!”

If you have a Smart TV or Firestick, you may need to press the microphone button on your remote for Alexa to hear your command.

If you are using Alexa on your phone, you may need to be in the Alexa App for the voice command to register.

Method 2: Test the microphone button by saying “Alexa, can you hear me?”

Alexa activates when she hears her “wake word” which is typically “Alexa”, “Echo” or “Computer”. However, there are plenty of times when she thinks she hears her wake word and listens in. After analyzing the audio signal, if she determines that there isn’t actually a question for her, she simply ignores it.

If you ask Alexa a very long-winded question, she can sometimes think the audio isn’t relevant to her and ignore it. 

So instead when testing, I recommend simply asking “Alexa, can you hear me?”

Method 4: Rephrase the Question to see if Alexa responding

If the Amazon Alexa device responds to “Can you hear me” but not your original question, then it's worth rephrasing the question to something she will respond to.

Method 5: Leave a slight gap between saying “Alexa” and your voice command

I have a tendency to speak quite fast, which can result in Alexa missing the question.

To ensure your voice commands are properly relayed, leave a slight gap when you say the word “Alexa” followed by your question.

As you relay the commands, make sure you speak naturally and clearly. To get a better understanding of how Alexa picks up your commands, you may access the Alexa history and see what the device interprets during your voice commands.

(Alexa App > More > Settings > Alexa Privacy > Voice History).

When I did this I was surprised how many times Alexa recorded audio which was then classified as “Audio was not intended for this device”.

Method 6: Check if your Amazon Alexa Echo device is powered on and responsive

If Amazon Alexa responding to you with the silent treatment, then it’s time to check if she’s actually plugged in!

Echo devices need a constant reliable power supply and I recommend using the power adapter that came with the device when you purchased it.

If the Amazon's Alexa device is securely plugged into a wall outlet, then press a button on the device. There should be some feedback to your button press, such as the light ring illuminating or some message on the screen.

Method 7: Check Alexa if muted

If your device has power then to check whether or not your device is muted, look at its light indicator. If the light indicator is red, your device is muted.

The mute feature prevents the device from picking up your commands and responding to them. To unmute the device, press the microphone button for at least two seconds and the device will send an indication that it has been unmuted. 

Method 7: Check the selected “Wake Word” in the Alexa App

As mentioned earlier, Alexa can be configured to respond to other “wake words” such as Amazon, Echo or Computer . There are also optional “celebrity wake words” such as Samuel L Jackson, Melissa McCarty, Shaquille O’Neill or even Santa Claus!

If the Echo device is configured to respond to one of those other words, then it won’t respond to the “Alexa” prompt.

To double check which is set …

1. Go to your Alexa App > More > Settings > Device Settings
2. Select the device you are trying to communicate with
3. Hit the cog at the top right of the screen
4. Hit “Wake Word” under General
5. This loads the various wake words and “Alexa” should have a blue tick beside it. If it doesn’t either select it, or instead just use the other wake word configured.

Method 7: Reduce background noise or move the Alexa device

I’ve found the Echo microphones to be quite good at picking up questions, even when the Echo speaker is blaring out music.

However, if another device is playing music, or there’s simply a lot of active noise in the room, voice recognition issue can occur. Also, Amazon recommends moving your device away from walls!

So, to ensure Alexa clearly hears your commands and is able to respond, you’ll want to reduce or eliminate the background noise. These include anything from TV or music speakers, to sounds from kitchen appliances, or conversations.

Method 8: Check if “Brief Mode” is enabled

If “Brief Mode” is set, it can reduce the duration of Alexa’s responses. It can also replace responses with a short beep instead of answering.

If you think this might be the problem, you can check it in the Alexa App under More > Settings > Voice Responses under Alexa Preferences. 

Method 9: Check if Alexa has an active internet connection

Sometimes you may experience issues with Echo Speaker or Display not responding to voice commands due to poor internet or no internet connection at all. 

While generally she’ll inform you if she’s having trouble connecting to the internet, on occasion she might not.

Method 10: Test Wi-Fi on your phone while standing beside your router

To check if your Wi-Fi network has internet, I typically connect my phone to the network and disable mobile data. From there I try to access the internet through Google Chrome or another web browser. As web browsers can serve cached content, I usually try to run a speed test to ensure there is data flowing back and forth (Simply Google the words “speed test” to find the resource).

Method 11: Test Wi-Fi on your phone while standing beside your Echo device

While you may have a decent internet connection while standing beside your router, that signal might not be as powerful where your Echo device is located.

So carry out the test again, but this time go to the location of the smart speaker.

If you suspect your Wi-Fi signal is the issue, it might be worth investing in a Wi-Fi repeater/extender or upgrading to mesh Wi-Fi. Alternatively, you could move the Echo device closer to the Wi-Fi router.

Method 12: Double Check Wi-Fi settings for the device in the Alexa App

If your Wi-Fi network is operating normally, then I recommend checking to make sure the Echo device is configured to work with that Wi-Fi network.

For this go the Alexa App > More > Settings > Device Settings > Choose the Echo device. Press the cog at the top of the screen and under Wireless, you should see the name of the Wi-Fi network. This should be the same as the one you just tested with.

Method 13: Out-of-Date Firmware (Alexa software versions)

If you’ve plugged in your device for the first time in a while, it’s possible the device's firmware is out of date.

Typically, Echo devices download firmware automatically when connected to the internet.

You can usually ask “Alexa, check for a software update” However that’s clearly no help if she’s not answering you!

Instead, restarting the device as discussed next may help force a software update.

Note: You can also see the current Device Software Version under the About section of the device in the app. While this doesn’t tell you if this is the latest version, it may be useful if you end up speaking to someone in Amazon support.

Method 14. Restart your Alexa device

If making changes to the device settings doesn’t work or the device is unresponsive to button presses, you may have to simply restart your Alexa device. 

This is how you restart Alexa: Unplug it from the outlet, wait a minute and then plug it back in. (This is called “power cycling”)

Once it reconnects to the network, try the voice command again to see if it works.

Method 15: Reset your Alexa device

If the above methods don’t work, then you may have to resort to the last option – reset your Alexa device. 

To reset unresponsive Alexa, press the action button (The solid circle) on the device for 20 seconds. Once the light ring comes back on, you’re back in setup mode.

From here go to the device in the Alexa App and follow the setup instructions.

Final Words

If none of the above work to fix voice-recognition glitches, it’s possible that you either have received a faulty device or damage has occurred to the device over time.

This happened to me when I had an Echo Dot on my kitchen window and eventually, water splashed on it from the sink. It never really recovered from the water damage.

If you think those common Alexa voice recognition glitches are caused by the faulty device, then it’s definitely worth seeing if it's still under warranty and contacting the retailer or Amazon themselves.

So there you have it! 11 tips and tricks to fix the issue of Alexa Echo Dot not responding to your voice commands. 

Let us know in the comments below if any of these worked to fix your Echo problems or if you have any other tips or tricks I should include!

The post Why is my Alexa not responding to voice commands? appeared first on Smart Home Perfected.

An incoming call is indicated by a radiant green circle, while a spinning green emblem demonstrates that you're either on a call or starting a drop-in talk with another person, with the purple line and white light as other light pulsing signals.

The green notification is regularly mistaken for the yellow light ring, which signifies that you have a new notification or message indicated by the indicator light or the light red LED ring.

Check out our yellow light ring article, for how to manage these notifications and dismiss the yellow light among other status lights and flashing lights.

How can Alexa receive calls?

There are a number of ways your Echo speaker or display can receive calls. 

• “Alexa-to-Alexa Contact” allows people with Echo devices to call other people with Echo devices.
• If you’ve hooked up your mobile phone account (AT&T, Verizon, EE, Vodafone currently supported) to your Alexa profile, you can receive mobile phone calls on your Echo devices.
• If Skype is configured in your Alexa App, you can receive these calls via your Echo speaker also.

What is a Drop-In?

The Drop-In feature acts like a digital intercom and allows you to communicate with other Echo devices in your home.

For Echo and Echo Dot speakers, this acts like an automatically answered audio call while for the Echo Show, it acts like an instant video call.

To start a Drop-In you simply say:

• “Alexa, Drop In on [Echo device name]”

Or you can Drop-In from the Alexa app to your Echo speakers or displays if you are away from home.

You can also Drop-In on friends or family in other homes, if they have provided you with “Drop-In” permission. This is great if, for example, you are caring for an elderly relative and need to check in on them regularly.

Say to your Echo device:

• “Alexa, Drop In on [friend's name].”

This feature is configured on a contact-by-contact basis as you can see below:

What Does it Mean When Alexa Flashing Green Ring?

If you see a pulsing green light on your Echo speaker, it means you are receiving a call. Alexa usually informs you who is calling.

You can then say

• “Alexa, Answer”
• “Alexa, Ignore Call”

By saying “Answer”, you will be connected with the caller. Echo devices with a screen will also display the name of the caller.

You can also ignore it by saying nothing. Your Echo will stop pulsing right after the person stops calling. Both ways work fine and will turn off the pulsing green light on your Echo, reverting the LED light ring back to its default state among the various indicator lights

The other variation is the spinning green ring which shows when you are on an active call or someone has “dropped in” on you, indicated by conversation colors, light ring colors, light blue, and ensuring Alexa privacy.

You will see the green spinning light for as long as you are on that call. As soon as you or the other person hangs up, the green light will disappear, reverting back to the default Amazon Echo light colors.

To end the call or drop in, simply say:

• “Alexa, Hang up.” 

How to Fully Disable the Amazon Echo Alexa Green Ring?

If you don't want your Echo speaker to display the green light at all, and would rather disconnect Alexa from calls and Drop-Ins, follow the below steps.

The difference between an Alexa Call and a Drop-In

It’s possible to communicate with the Echo devices of family and friends through the Alexa Call or Drop-In feature.

The main difference between these methods is that you can reject an incoming call if it doesn’t suit, whereas you cannot reject a drop-in. A drop-in opens an instant conversation between the two Echo devices, like an intercom.

Drop-In is highly controlled and permissions must be granted on a contact-by-contact basis. This makes sense as it has the potential to be very intrusive. For that reason, it probably makes the most sense to only allow Drop-in for close family. I know that personally, I  wouldn’t want my friends listening in on my conversations or watching me through my Echo Show camera! 

FAQ:

Why is the Amazon Echo's light green?

The green light on your Amazon Echo indicates that you have an incoming call or drop-in. When you see a spinning or pulsing green light, it means someone is trying to reach you via Alexa's calling or drop-in feature.

What happens to the green light when you are on an active call?

When you are on an active call, the green light will remain solid on your Echo device. This signifies that the call is currently in progress.

Where does the green light appear on an Echo speaker with a screen?

On Echo devices with a screen, such as the Echo Show, the green light typically appears as a green bar or indicator at the bottom or top edge of the display, depending on the model. This light serves the same purpose of indicating incoming calls or active calls.

What does the Echo's green ring look like?

The Echo's green ring looks like a spinning or pulsing green light around the top edge of the device. When a call is active, the green light becomes solid. This visual indicator helps users identify the call status at a glance.

Conclusion

To get rid of the green light, if you’ve said “Alexa, Ignore Call” and “Alexa, Hang Up” and the light is still spinning, then it’s possible that it's more of a Yellow Ring than a Green one! In that case, say “Alexa, Clear Notifications.” Check out our other article which explains more about this.

Also, it may be possible that Alexa misheard something you said, and accidentally started a call or drop-in on someone else. While “Alexa, Hang Up” should solve this, you can review your voice history on the Alexa app to see if this is what happened.

Let us know what worked for you in the comments below!

Sources

https://www.amazon.com/

https://techcrunch.com/

The post Amazon Alexa Echo Green Light: What Does it Mean? How to Stop it? appeared first on Smart Home Perfected.

In this article, I'll dive deeper into what a MAC address is and how to find your Alexa device's MAC address.

I'll also discuss how it can be helpful for troubleshooting network issues, setting up parental controls, adding devices to your network, and limiting access to your network. 

I have MAC address filtering enabled on my router to protect my home network. This is essentially a whitelist of devices that can access my network and is an extra security measure I use. When setting up my Echo devices I needed to add their unique MAC address to this whitelist, so they could join my network. 

What is a MAC address?

Every device on a network has a unique identifier called the MAC address. MAC stands for “Media Access Control” and is a 12-digit code made up of numbers and letters, separated with a colon or hyphen after every second digit. 

It's like a physical address for your device and is embedded in the hardware, unlike an IP address. When you connect to a network, the router records your device's MAC address which is useful for network management and troubleshooting. 

No two devices have the same MAC address, making it a highly reliable method of identification. It's important to note that the MAC address is related to the network interface of your device. This means that if your device has two network interfaces, it will have two MAC addresses.

Difference between a MAC address of Alexa and an Echo speaker?

To clear up any confusion, Alexa doesn’t have its own MAC address. Alexa is software that runs on a smart speaker like an Echo or Echo Dot, a smartphone, or a smart TV. 

So if you are troubleshooting one of those physical devices, you’ll need to find their unique MAC address. Read on to find out how.

How to find Alexa's MAC Address?

Assuming Alexa is running on an Echo speaker, you will be looking for that speaker's MAC address.

To begin, make sure your phone is ready and the Echo device is plugged in. 

Step by Step Screenshots

Finding the MAC address without Wi-Fi or before the device is set up

If you have MAC address filtering on your router, then you’ll need the MAC address before setting up your speaker.

In this case, all you need is the box that your device came in. Look for a 12-digit code on the box, and you'll notice that there's a colon or hyphen after every second digit. This code is your device's MAC address. 

Now that you have the MAC address, you can use it for various purposes, like setting up the device, enabling parental controls on your router, or troubleshooting network issues.

Original Packaging Missing?

If you don’t have the original packaging, then you might be out of luck. On the various Echo speakers I have, only the serial number is printed on the label at the bottom. Depending on your router manufacturer, if you try to connect the device to your network, the MAC address may show up in the router's access log.

Can you change an Echo Speakers' MAC Address?

Echo speakers do not allow users to change the MAC address, which is a unique identifier assigned during manufacturing.

Why would you need the MAC Address for Alexa or your Echo speaker?

Knowing the MAC address of your device is not necessary for day-to-day operations, but it can be useful in certain situations like controlling access to your network, enabling parental controls, or troubleshooting connection issues.

If you want to set up your Alexa device on a network that has MAC address filtering enabled, you will need to provide the MAC address in order to grant access. Additionally, if you notice any issues with your network or internet connection, knowing the MAC address of your Alexa device can help you troubleshoot the issue in your router console.

Conclusion

So there you have it, folks! Knowing your Alexa device’s MAC address might just be the missing piece to solving your network connection issues.

Finding it is a straightforward process that should only take a few minutes and can be very useful if looking to secure your network.

Sources

Wi-Fi Alliance

The post Alexa / Echo Mac Address: Steps to Find It appeared first on Smart Home Perfected.

A few years ago I tried to set up multi-room audio and got the message “Firmware update required” on one of my speakers. Recently I’ve also been having issues with an Echo Show 5 (2nd Gen) which was slow to respond to voice commands, and after investigating I noticed its firmware was well out of date.

Generally speaking, Echo devices should update their firmware automatically and usually at night, but there are occasions when that just doesn’t happen. I’ll talk through how to check and update the software or firmware for each device type.

Also, I discuss how Alexa and the Echo product range now support the new Matter protocol for smart home devices.

Echo Speakers support for Matter-over-WiFi and Matter-over-Thread

In December 2022, Amazon rolled out an update to add Matter-over-WiFi support to 17 different Echo devices! 

This included Echo Dot (3rd Gen+), Echo (4th Gen), Echo Show 5 & 8 (1st Gen+), Echo Show 10 (3rd Gen), Echo Plus (v2) and the Flex and Input.

This means those devices can now act as a controller to communicate with other smart home gadgets using the common Matter's Wi-Fi protocol. 

You will need to be operating on the latest firmware versions for Matter support to work.

Also, in Spring 2023, a firmware update will roll out for the Echo (4th Gen), which will make it a Thread border router, enabling Matter-over-Thread device support.

What is Matter?

Matter is a new technology that allows smart home devices from different manufacturers to communicate with each other without needing to connect to the cloud. This means you can easily connect all your devices in your home and they will all work together seamlessly.

Matter over Wi-Fi allows a controller to communicate directly with other Matter-enabled devices on the same network, while Matter over Thread allows a controller to communicate over Thread, which is a mesh network protocol.

To make sure a device is compatible with Matter, you can just look for the Matter logo. This way, in the future you can be confident that it will work with all your other Matter-enabled devices.

For more on Matter check out my article here.

How to check if your Echo speaker is up to date

An easy one to start off. To check if your speaker has up-to-date firmware you simply say:

• “Alexa, check for software updates”

Alternatively, you can compare the version number of your Echo speaker to that listed on the Amazon website.

Step 1: Find your Echo speaker's current version number

Step 2: Find the latest version of that model

Now that you have both numbers, you can compare to see if your device is fully up to date. If not, then read on to learn how to force update them.

How to check if your Echo show is up to date

To see if your Echo Show firmware is up-to-date:

How to update an Echo, Echo Dot, Echo Plus or Echo Studio Speaker

As mentioned above, firmware updates should automatically download. So if you’ve confirmed that the firmware version is different from that displayed on the Amazon page, then you need to force download the update.

I’m assuming that your speaker is responding to voice commands as normal and is therefore connected to the internet.

There are four approaches you can try, which I’ve listed below. You’ll know an update is installing if you see a pulsing blue ring where the speaker becomes unresponsive to voice commands for a time. This is normal and the speaker can also restart itself upon completion of the update.

Approach 1 – Ask Alexa to Check for Updates

With the voice command “Alexa, check for software updates”, she’ll be able to report back if an update is available. She usually asks if it's OK to proceed with the update. Once you confirm, the update should start. 

Approach 2 – Power Cycle the Speaker

By plugging out the speaker from the outlet, leaving it for 30 seconds, and plugging it back in, the device should run through its boot cycle. 

Part of this boot cycle is to search for new updates and install them if available.

Approach 3 – “Disable Microphone” Approach

This approach tends to work for older generations of Echo speakers. It involves pressing the “Disable Microphone” button and leaving it with the red ring light for up to 30 minutes. With the microphone disabled, it appears the speaker can then focus on firmware updates.

Approach 4 – Trigger a Bluetooth Connection

This one is a little out of left field, however, a Youtube user had an issue where their Echo Studio was not accepting voice commands so he couldn’t ask it to “Check for Updates”.

His workaround was to reconnect the speaker to a Bluetooth device and in doing so triggered the firmware update. You can watch the process below

Approach 5 – Factory Reset the Speaker

It’s possible that a previous firmware upgrade has corrupted the update process. In this case, you’ll need to reset the device.

By holding down the action button for up to 30 seconds, you will be able to restore your speaker to its factory state. Once reset, you’ll need to go back through the setup process and connect it to Wi-Fi. Once complete, the speaker will search for the latest firmware to download.

How to update an Echo Show 5, 8, 10, or 15 display

Updating your Alexa Echo Show Display ensures that you have the latest features and bug fixes. To update your device:

If that process doesn’t work, it’s possible the OS has been corrupted in some way. In this case, I recommend factory resetting your Echo Show as follows.

How to update the Echo Buds

If you want to update the software on your Echo Buds, you just need to charge them in their case and the update takes place over Bluetooth. But before you do, make sure that your Echo Buds are near your phone (within 25 feet), the case is at least 30% charged, and that the case stays closed for at least 30 minutes.

To check which software version your Echo Buds are running on, just head to the device settings section in your Alexa app.

There’s a conversation over on the Amazon forum here on how to force download a firmware update by resetting the buds and then cycling the Alexa App, Airplane mode, and the Echo Buds Case. I haven’t personally been able to replicate this but it might be of help to some.

How to update an Echo Sub speaker

Echo sub speakers do not have a microphone, so it’s not possible to update it by voice command.

A lot of users over on the Amazon forum seem to have issues with firmware versions on their Echo Sub. There’s no clear solution other than attempting the five approaches outlined in the section above.

How to check if your Alexa App is up to date and download updates

Checking if your Alexa app is up-to-date is easy, and updating it is even easier. Here's how to do it in a few simple steps:

On Android

On iOS

And that's it! Your Alexa app is now up-to-date and ready to use. If you have any issues with updating an app, you can try restarting your device or checking your internet connection to ensure a stable download.

Why does the Alexa app not auto-update?

If you notice that the Alexa App on your iOS or Android phone is out of date, then there are a few possible reasons.

• Auto-update disabled: It's possible that the auto-update feature for your phone's app store or specifically for the Alexa app is turned off. This means that you'll have to manually update the app by going to the app store and selecting the “Update” option.
• Insufficient storage: If there’s a big update due and your phone doesn't have enough storage space, you might not be able to auto-update apps. You'll need to free up some space by deleting unused apps or files before you can update your apps.
• Not on Wi-Fi: By default, app stores will only auto-update apps when you're connected to Wi-Fi to avoid using up too much of your mobile data plan.
• No internet connection: If your device is not connected to the internet, then the Alexa app cannot be updated automatically. Therefore, you need to check if you have a stable internet connection and try again.

How to update the Alexa App on a Fire Tablet

Updating the Alexa app on a Fire Tablet is relatively easy. You can choose to have your device automatically download and install updates or manually check for updates and install them.

To auto-update the Alexa app, from the home screen go to Settings > Apps & Games > Amazon Settings> Appstore > Automatic Updates and then enable automatic updates.

With this setting, the Alexa app will be automatically updated on your device.

To manually update the Alexa app, follow these steps:

Just make sure that your device has enough storage space, is connected to the internet, and you have enough time to install the updates.

Note: If this doesn’t work for you then check out these instructions here as they might be useful in your situation.

How long does it take Alexa to update?

Updating your Alexa device's software is essential to ensure optimal performance and access to new features. The update time varies depending on your internet connection speed and the update's size. 

Most updates take a few minutes to install, but longer updates are possible if the device has not been updated recently. 

Your Alexa device should automatically update, or you can check for updates manually in the Amazon Alexa app. 

During the update process, your device may show a rotating blue ring, become unresponsive or go offline, but this is normal. You can read more about this here.

It's critical to allow the update to be completed without interruption.

Sources

The Verge

The post How To Update an Echo’s Firmware or the Alexa App appeared first on Smart Home Perfected.

You have the choice between installing a new smoke detector with Alexa capabilities, or to use a listening device which triggers Alexa when it hears an alarm.

Option 1: Install an Alexa Detector

9.4

Nest Protect

Top pickSplit Spectrum-sensing smoke- and carbon monoxide detector

View Price

9.2

Safe & Sound Smoke and CO Alarm

Runner up2-in1 smoke and CO alarm with omni-directional speakers

View Price

9.1

Onelink Smoke & CO Detector

2-in-1 smoke & CO detector with interconnection capability

View Price

Option 2: Use your existing Smoke Detector with a Listening Device

9.1

Alexa Guard on an Amazon Echo Dot

Free & Subscription Plans Available

View Price

9.0

Ring Alarm Smoke and CO Listener

A reliable CO and smoke listener

View Price

Option 1: Install an Alexa Detector

9.4

Top pick

1.

Nest Protect

Split Spectrum-sensing smoke- and carbon monoxide detector

View Price
On Amazon.com

Featuring a Split Spectrum sensor, the Google Nest smoke alarm detects smoke from both smoldering and fast-burning fires.

Top Features

• Night pathlight
• Nightly promise – The alarm tests itself beforehand to ensure you do not get maintenance notifications during the night
• 2-in-1 smoke- and carbon monoxide alarm

We placed Google’s Nest protect at the top of our list because of the range of functionality it offers through Alexa, in addition to the highly efficient Split Spectrum sensor. Nest Protect comes in both hardwired and battery-operated versions.

Split Spectrum Sensor

The Google Nest CO and smoke alarm features a Split Spectrum sensor which allows it to detect both rapid-burning and smoldering fires quickly. This sensor features a blend of photoelectric sensor and blue LED light in tandem – helping to lower false alarms that are common in ionization sensor alarms.

Voice Alerts

The Alexa fire alarm is designed with innovative voice control features that calmly notify you when either smoke or carbon monoxide is detected. The voice alerts share the location and the danger level of each fire. 

Nightly Promise

The alarm tests itself before you go to bed to ensure you do not get annoying maintenance alarms during the night. LED lights turn green in the dark to let you know everything is fine. Its pathlight feature on the other hand leaves the room you walk in glowing; functioning as a night light.

Alexa Compatibility

You can use Nest’s compatibility with Alexa to enjoy a range of features –  such as remotely switching off the alarm or pre-programing the monitoring locations.

Tech Specs

9.2

Runner up

2.

Safe & Sound Smoke and CO Alarm

2-in1 smoke and CO alarm with omni-directional speakers

View Price
On Amazon.com

Smoke and CO alarm featuring built-in Alexa voice services to play music, news, and audio-books.

Top Features

• AirPlay 2 support
• Omni-directional audio
• 10-year sealed lithium battery

Boasting built-in Alexa voice services, the Safe & Sound smoke and alarm detector allows you to play music, and audiobooks, and even listen to the news as you enjoy up-to-date fire safety protection in your home or office.

Connectivity

In addition to built-in Alexa compatibility, the alarm is compatible with Apple HomeKit as well. You can also download the Onelink home app (Android or iOS) and use it to control and monitor the alarm through your phone.

Voice commands

The Alexa-compatible fire detector also uses hands-free commands to allow you to control other smart home devices such as lights, too. 

Installation

Featuring a simple hardwiring design, all you have to do is plug the unit in using the adapter provided to get it up and running – no need for complex wiring!

Speakers

The high-end, omnidirectional speakers equipped with crisp vocals and powerful bass can alert you even through noise-cancelling headphones. 

You can also use the unit’s Onelink Home companion app to remotely test or silence your alarm, control your entertainment, and even adjust the nightlight color and brightness remotely.

Tech Specs

9.1

3.

Onelink Smoke & CO Detector

2-in-1 smoke & CO detector with interconnection capability

View Price
On Amazon.com

The Onelink Smoke & CO Detector allows you to interconnect it with multiple other alarms to create a home safety network.

Top Features

• Replaceable 5-year battery
• Apple HomeKit compatibility
• 2-in-1 smoke- and carbon monoxide detector

While the Onelink smoke detector doesn’t offer the range of Alexa compatibility as the previous devices, it still functions seamlessly as a smart smoke and carbon monoxide detector. The unit connects with Amazon Alexa devices to further extend its remote and voice control features. However, when the alarm goes off during an emergency, the unit doesn’t inform Alexa. Instead, it features its own built-in voice alarm and notification feature.

Connectivity 

The Alexa fire alarm still offers generous connectivity features. With the ability to interconnect, the smoke alarm pairs with other smoke alarms for a home safety network solution. Therefore, when one of the alarms rings, all of the ones connected to the home safety network will go off, too. 

Sensors

Furthermore, the CO and smoke alarm is built with photoelectric and electrochemical sensors – allowing it to detect both rapid-burning and slow-burning fires. 

Design

The alarm has a smooth white surface with round corners and a simple design that’ll blend easily with its environment. Its easy-access battery door means the unit lasts long – all that is needed is a battery change. The replaceable battery fitted into the unit typically lasts about 5 years.

Option 2: Use your existing Smoke Detector with a Listening Device

9.1

4.

Alexa Guard on an Amazon Echo Dot

Free & Subscription Plans Available

View Price
On Amazon.com

Just because your smoke detector doesn’t feature smart technology, it doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy Amazon Alexa features. Using Amazon Echo Dot’s Alexa Guard feature, you can extend your voice commands to your non-smart smoke detector. Built to deliver crisp vocals and balanced bass, the speaker delivers full sound alerts.

Top Features

• Low power mode
• Dual band Wi-Fi support
• Bluetooth connectivity

The Echo Dot also allows you to integrate it with other smart home devices such as lights and thermostats. However, when it comes to home protection, the Alexa Guard feature on the speaker is easy to use. 

The feature simply functions by sending notifications to the speaker when it detects certain sounds such as smoke alarms or breaking glass. The notifications tell you the exact warning for the sounds heard.

9.0

5.

Ring Alarm Smoke and CO Listener

A reliable CO and smoke listener

View Price
On Amazon.com

The Ring Alarm Smoke and CO Listener is a nice option for users who do not want to spend money on a new smoke alarm. All you have to do is place it within 6 inches of an existing smoke or CO alarm, connect it to your Ring Alarm Base Station and enjoy real-time emergency notifications.

Top Features

• Z-Wave connectivity up to the 250-foot range to base station
• 3-year 3V lithium battery-operated
• Easy, no-wiring setup

The alarm listener functions by sending real-time mobile notifications when it hears sirens from smoke or CO alarms in your home.  

There is a catch, though:  for the alarm listener to function efficiently it requires the Ring Alarm Security Kit. If you want to take it a step further with 24/7 professional monitoring, you can opt to pay for the Ring Protect Plus plan.

 Alexa Smoke Detectors Decision-Making Factors

Battery v Hardwired

Smoke and CO detectors feature a choice of battery-powered, hardwired or a combo of both power sources. Battery-operated units are fitted with replaceable or permanent, tamper-resistant batteries that last anywhere between 3 and 10 years.

Hardwired units, on the other hand, require installation into your home’s existing wiring – although you may find some that feature plug adapters; requiring no complex work.

Interconnectivity

Some of the best smart smoke detectors are built with the capacity to interconnect with each other. This feature allows you to pair more than one smoke alarm with other compatible alarms (typically in a complete home or building) to create a home safety network. Therefore, when one alarm goes off, all go off.

Battery Life

Battery-operated smoke alarms are fitted with replaceable or fully sealed batteries (that warrant the end life of your unit when they are depleted). Generally, smoke detector batteries are long lasting – taking between 3 and 10 years to run out. You will receive an alert when your fully sealed battery dies off; allowing you to replace the detector with a new one.

The Verdict

Using smart smoke detector Alexa-compatible units, you can control your home’s safety through simple vocal instructions. Even when you are not around, you can still have an update on your home’s safety status. 

There are loads of options available if you’re looking for a new Alexa compatible alarm. Moreover, if you already have a smoke detector and want to save up on cash, you can buy a listening device as well. 

9.4

Top pick

1. Nest Protect

Split Spectrum-sensing smoke- and carbon monoxide detector

View Price
On Amazon.com

Featuring a Split Spectrum sensor, the Google Nest smoke alarm detects smoke from both smoldering and fast-burning fires.

Top Features

• Night pathlight
• Nightly promise – The alarm tests itself beforehand to ensure you do not get maintenance notifications during the night
• 2-in-1 smoke- and carbon monoxide alarm

Sources

store.google.com

The post Best Alexa Smoke Detectors for your Smart Home appeared first on Smart Home Perfected.

One of my favorite features is the ability to create customized scenes. I have a morning routine that turns on my bedroom lights, opens the blinds to let the sunlight in, starts playing my favorite playlist at a low volume, and gives me a brief weather update. It's a great way to start the day and makes getting out of bed so much easier!

What is Alexa and how does it work?

Alexa is a virtual assistant created by Amazon that you can interact with using your voice. It is found on devices like the Amazon Echo, Echo Dot, Fire TV, and many other smart home devices. She can perform various tasks like playing music, setting alarms, answering your questions, controlling your smart home devices, ordering products on Amazon, and much more!

To use Alexa, all you have to do is wake her up by saying, “Alexa” followed by a command. She will listen to your command and respond appropriately. She uses natural language processing and machine learning to understand your commands and generate a response. This means that you don't have to use any specific trigger words or phrases to get her attention.

Skills

Alexa comes with an ever-growing range of skills that are developed by Amazon and third-party developers. (Total count as of last year is well over 100,000 skills according to Statista

These skills allow you to do everything from calling an Uber, checking the weather, translating languages, to even playing games.

Overall, Alexa makes your life easier, more convenient, and a lot more fun! (Think Back to the Future fun!)

Alexa Built-in Devices

Alexa built-in devices are smart devices that come with the voice assistant pre-installed. From Echo Speakers to Fire TVs, there are many options to choose from. 

Echo Speakers and displays are popular and come in various sizes and styles. They can play music and videos, control smart home devices, and more with your voice. The Amazon Fire TV allows you to watch TV and movies as well as use Alexa voice control. 

Other options include smart displays and headphones, car accessories, and smart locks. There's an Alexa-built device for everyone, whether you want to control your home, watch TV, or use her on the go.

Alexa as a Smart Home Controller

Alexa can do more than just answer your questions and play your favorite music. It can also control your smart home devices.

As a smart home controller, she can turn on and off lights, adjust the temperature, and even lock or unlock doors. All you need is a compatible smart home device and an Alexa-enabled device such as an Echo or a Fire TV Stick.

To get started, you need to pair your smart home device with your device using the app. This way, Alexa can recognize and communicate with your smart device.

Once your devices are paired, you can give voice commands to control your smart home devices. For example, you can say “Alexa, turn on the living room lights” or “lock the front door.”

Routines

You can also set up routines in the Alexa app, where you can automate certain tasks to happen at specific times or when a specific event occurs. For instance, you can set up a routine where at 10 pm every night, Alexa turns off all the lights in the house.

Alexa can be a great central hub for your smart home devices, making it easy to control everything with just your voice. A number of Echo speakers come with a Zigbee radio while the newer generations will be compatible with Thread and Matter, the latest smart home protocols to unify the industry.

Whether you're turning off the lights as you leave the house or dimming the lights for movie night, she makes it convenient and simple to manage your home.

Alexa Skills & Commands

Now that you know the basics of how to communicate with Alexa, let's talk about skills and commands. Alexa skills are like apps that you can add to your devices, such as the Echo or Echo Dot, to help you do more things. They can range from simple games and jokes to more complex processes like ordering food, paying bills, or controlling your smart home devices.

To add a new skill, you can simply say, “Alexa, enable (skill name),” and she'll take care of the rest. You can also enable skills using the Alexa app by going to the Skills section and browsing through thousands of available options.

So, how do you know which skills are worth enabling? The best way is to start by exploring the featured or popular skills on the Skills page in the app. You can also browse by category, such as Games & Trivia, Music & Audio, or Smart Home. And, of course, you can always search for a specific skill by name.

Once you have added a skill, you can access it by saying, “Alexa, open (skill name).” Some skills will prompt you to ask specific questions or give specific commands, while others are more open-ended and conversational.

Commands

Now, let's talk about commands. Commands are the specific requests you make to Alexa to get her to do something for you. You can ask her to do everything from playing your favorite songs to setting a timer for your dinner.

To start, you can use the wake word, “Alexa,” to get her attention. Then, ask your question or give your command. For example, “Alexa, what's the weather forecast today?” or “set a timer for 15 minutes.”

What's great is that she can understand a wide variety of commands, so don't be afraid to experiment and see what she can do for you. If you're ever unsure about what to say or how to phrase your request, she'll often offer suggestions.

How to Set Up Alexa

To set up your Alexa, follow these simple steps:

1. Plug in your Alexa device using the power adapter that came with it.
2. Connect it to your Wi-Fi network by opening the Alexa app on your smartphone or tablet and following the prompts.
3. Customize the various settings, such as language, time zone, and other preferences.
4. Choose a wake word that you prefer or keep the default word, “Alexa.”
5. Your Alexa is now ready to use! Simply say the wake word followed by your command or question, and enjoy all the features and benefits of having an Alexa device.

Overall, the process of setting up Alexa is straightforward and only takes a few minutes.

Ways that Alexa can be used

Below are various ways that Alexa can be used in your day-to-day life.

1. Control your home: With Alexa, you can control your smart home devices. Simply connect your devices and ask her to control your lights, temperature, or kitchen appliances.
2. Entertainment: She can play music, movies, and audiobooks – just ask her to play your favorite content.
3. Scheduling and Reminders: You can ask Alexa to manage your schedule and set reminders for important events, and even add items to your shopping list.
4. Communication: She allows you to make phone calls, send messages, and make to-do lists without needing a screen – perfect for when you're on the go.
5. Information and News: Alexa can provide you with weather forecasts, news updates, and even traffic conditions.

Overall, Alexa can streamline your life and make it easier. Just say “Alexa” and start speaking!

Alexa vs Siri vs Google Assistant

When it comes to voice-controlled virtual assistants, you have three big players in the market: Alexa, Siri, and Google Assistant. But what sets them apart? Here’s a quick rundown.

• Alexa is Amazon’s virtual assistant and the brains behind the Amazon Echo and other smart speakers. She’s designed to help you with your everyday tasks, like playing music or setting a reminder. Alexa has a massive amount of “skills” which are basically voice-activated apps you can add to her repertoire.
• Siri, on the other hand, is Apple's virtual assistant that comes built-in to iOS devices such as the iPhone and iPad. She can also set reminders and play music, but where she really shines is when it comes to interacting with other Apple devices. For example, you can ask Siri to send a text message or make a phone call from your iPhone using only your voice.
• Meanwhile, Google Assistant is Google’s version of a virtual assistant that lives in devices like Google Home and smartphones running Android. She’s known for her exceptional ability to provide context-aware responses, making her a bit more conversational than Alexa or Siri. Google Assistant got her start as part of the Google search engine, so she’s great at giving answers. She can even go so far as to help you remember your passwords or even your Wi-Fi networks.

So, who comes out on top? It really depends on what you’re looking for. If you’re a big Amazon shopper, Alexa’s the way to go. If you’re looking for seamless integration with your iOS devices, Siri might be more your speed. If you’re a Google-lover or want a more conversational assistant, Google Assistant should do nicely. Regardless of your choice, you’re sure to find a helpful voice assistant ready to lend a hand (or voice, in this case).

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Conclusion

So there you have it folks, the ultimate guide to Alexa. As you can see, she's a powerful tool that can help you simplify your daily life. You can use it to play music, set alarms, check the weather, and control your smart home devices. With Alexa's skills and integrations, the possibilities are endless. Don't be afraid to explore and try new things with Alexa.

Citations

https://www.statista.com/statistics/917900/selected-countries-amazon-alexa-skill-count/

https://alexa.amazon.com/

The post The A to Z of Alexa appeared first on Smart Home Perfected.

Note: The yellow and orange light rings are often mistaken for each other. If the instructions in this article don't work for you, then I recommend checking out my guide to the Alexa yellow ring here.

Also, you can watch my video below where I discuss the topics covered in this article.

What does the Alexa Orange Ring mean?

If your Alexa Echo or Echo Dot is displaying an Orange ring, it can mean one of two things. 

• Firstly, it can indicate that your Echo device is in setup mode and awaiting a Wi-Fi connection. 
• Secondly, it can tell you that your Amazon device is facing issues connecting to your Wi-Fi network or the network does not have an active internet connection.

Unlike other flashing lights on your Amazon Alexa device (such as the green ring that has two variations – pulsing and spinning), the orange flashing light only spins.

I’ve had to set up and reconfigure Wi-Fi on my various Echo devices, multiple times down through the years. You can see an example of my Echo Dot 3rd generation spinning below.

How to resolve a spinning Alexa Orange Ring

1. Alexa Setup

Step by Step Screenshots

2. Changes to your Wi-Fi Network

You might also encounter the orange flashing light after you have already set up your Amazon Alexa device. 

If for any reason, your Wi-Fi connection is disrupted (Such as a new Wi-Fi router, change to the network name or a new password), the connection to your Alexa device will break and the device will need to reconnect to your Wi-Fi network. 

This is when you will see the orange light flash again. 

Step by Step Screenshots

If you periodically see the orange light, which goes away by itself, then it’s possible that your Echo device has a weak signal and is at the limit of the router's range. Or there may be too many devices on your network causing congestion. In these scenarios, you may need to consider upgrading your hardware to improve the Wi-Fi signal or decrease the number of devices on the network.

3. Alexa Orange Ring: Issues with your Internet Connectivity

If your Wi-Fi network is unchanged and stable, then it's possible that there’s an issue with your internet service provider. 

Like any service, there can be scheduled and unscheduled downtime, such as for network maintenance or during storms. In these situations, your Wi-Fi router won’t be able to communicate with the outside world.

The first step I take to determine if this is the issue is to restart or power cycle my router. (Turn it off, wait a minute and turn it back on). If that works, your network will be back online and the orange light will disappear.

If that doesn’t solve the problem, I usually check online to see if other people are having the same issue. Downdetector.com is a good resource along with Twitter or Google News. If others are experiencing the same problem, I usually wait for the ISP to resolve the outage or get in touch with them to get an ETA on when it’ll be back online.

Conclusion

That’s it! Hopefully the above instructions solve the spinning orange ring and help you get your Alexa device back online. 

Let us know what worked for you in the comments below!

Sources

Amazon Alexa Support

The post Resolved: 3 Quick Fixes for the Alexa Orange Ring Issue appeared first on Smart Home Perfected.

Check out my video below where I talk through the various topics discussed in this article.

Scenario 1: “Disable Microphone” Button Pressed

All Echo speakers come with omnidirectional microphones which pick up voice commands for Alexa to respond to. They also all come with a privacy feature that allows you to disable these microphones.

As I have an Echo speaker in my office, I use this feature when on work calls, to avoid Alexa mishearing a command and interrupting my meetings.

To enable it you simply press the “Disable Microphone” button which is opposite the action button (which is the solid circle). Amazon Echo Show devices also have this button beside the decrease volume button.

To disable it, simply press it again and the red light will disappear and Alexa can hear you again.

It's worth noting that the “Disable Microphone” feature results in a solid red light ring on the top of the speaker, for 2nd & 3rd generation speakers, or on the bottom (for 4th & 5th generation speakers. The microphone button also illuminates red.

If you have a flashing red light, then the problem is related to your Wi-Fi connection and not your microphone.

Disable Microphone Issues

If you press the button, to re-enable the microphones and the solid red light remains on, then it’s possible that your Echo speaker has frozen or glitched and needs a reboot.

In this case, simply power cycle the speaker, by removing the power cable from the outlet, waiting 30 seconds to 1 minute and then plugging it back in.

If that doesn’t work there may be damage to or obstruction with the microphone button which might require a repair or replacement.  

Scenario 2: Wi-Fi Issues

If your Alexa device is struggling to connect to Wi-Fi, or cannot connect to the internet via the Wi-Fi network, it can also display a red ring. The difference between this red ring and the microphone-muted red ring is that one flashes, whereas the other red ring is solid.

From my testing, the Echo 2nd and 3rd generation speakers demonstrate this red ring during connectivity issues while the 4th and 5th do not. I believe this is because the later generation Echo devices have a Zigbee hub built-in so can still work without internet connectivity. 

There are a number of potential causes and solutions to this issue.

1. Wi-Fi Network is Down

If someone plugged out your Wi-Fi router, or it has frozen, then Alexa won’t be able to connect to it. 

My first port of call is always to stand beside the router with my smartphone, disable mobile data, connect to the Wi-Fi network and see if I can access something in a web browser. 

If you can access the internet on your phone, then I recommend moving the speaker closer to the router to rule out an interference or signal strength issue.

If you can’t access the internet, then I usually just power cycle the router, by plugging it out, waiting 60 seconds and then plugging it back in. Anytime I do this, I usually need to wait a few minutes for the router to come fully back online.

2. Internet is Down

Your router may be working fine, however, there may be no data coming through your broadband connection. This can happen if there is a local outage. On my phone, I usually check online to see if my internet service provider is having uptime issues in my area. If this is the problem, then it's just a matter of waiting until you’re back online.

3. Wi-Fi Details have Changed

If you have replaced your router, or changed the Wi-Fi network name or password, then Alexa won’t be able to connect, which can result in the flashing red ring.

In this instance, you need to re-configure the Wi-Fi network on your Alexa device. For this, I recommend you have Bluetooth enabled on your phone along with the “Find Nearby Devices” permission if on Android.

Step by Step Screenshots

In some cases, changes to Wi-Fi security settings can hinder your Echo device from connecting to the network. You can go to your router settings page on a browser to see if your Echo device is registered on the network. If not then review the various firewall and security settings to see if anything could be hindering the connection.

4. Power Cycle your Echo Speaker

If your Wi-Fi network is working fine, has an active internet connection, and isn’t blocking your device from connecting, then it may be a glitch with the speaker itself.

In this instance, unplug the speaker, leave it for 30-60 seconds and then plug it back in.

5. Factory Reset your Echo Speaker

If none of the above works, you can factory reset your speaker by holding the action button for 30 seconds as opposed to 5-10 seconds.

This will take up to one minute and allows you to set up the speaker from scratch. 

Conclusion

As you can see, each generation of the Amazon Echo & Echo Dot comes with a light ring on the top or the bottom to communicate. I hope this article helps you understand what the red light ring signifies and how to resolve it on your Echo speaker.

Sources

Amazon

The post Solved: Alexa Red Ring Issues appeared first on Smart Home Perfected.

Alexa, Siri and Google Assistant are now commonplace in households around the world. As people come to grips with the benefits these voice assistants can provide, some are turning to voice shopping as the ultimate convenience in keeping the kitchen stocked!

What is Voice Shopping?

Voice Shopping is gaining more and more popularity with each passing month.

Leading strategy consultants from OC&C predict that by the year 2022, voice shopping will have grown into a $40 Billion industry.

Voice shopping is simply the ability to place orders with retailers by interacting with a voice assistant. This is typically done through a smart speaker installed in your home.

What are Smart Speakers?

Smart Speakers are becoming an essential part of every home. They can listen to and respond to what you say. Such as asking for the latest news, playing music, or controlling the lights in your home. At the core of their hardware, is voice assistant software, such as Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa.

Smart Speakers are programmed to respond to certain trigger words. For example, uttering the wake words “Alexa” or “OK Google”, will trigger these voice assistants to activate and respond to your query.

Voice shopping with Alexa on the Amazon Echo

The Echo and Echo Dot are flagship devices from Amazon that were launched back in 2014. They come with Amazon Alexa and feature microphones that can record what you say. 

After you have asked it to perform a task, Amazon Echo uses Wi-Fi and connects to Amazon Cloud to analyze the request and formulate a response. Once it has figured out what it should respond with, it vocalizes the response through the inbuilt speakers to communicate with you. This entire process takes only a couple of seconds.

How it works

To activate this device, you can say “Alexa” or “Echo”. When it’s activated, you will see the ring on its top light up. Now, if you haven’t used Amazon Alexa before, don’t worry about how you structure your sentences. Make sure you are speaking a natural language.  

For example, use the words “Alexa order”, and this device will give you a list of items you bought during the previous month. Say the words “Alexa, what are today’s deals?” and you will receive the best deals for you.

For a typical voice order, you can ask “Alexa, order laundry detergent”. Alexa will search Amazon for the most relevant product and inform you of its price asking would you like to order it. If you’re happy then you can say yes to confirm the order and it will be placed. Easy!

Voice shopping with Google Assistant on Nest and Google Home Speakers

Smart Google Devices such as Google Nest come with Google Assistant built into them. To activate these devices, simply say “OK Google” or “Hey Google”.

After activation, you can ask them to play your favorite song, to resume a podcast you were listening to, to give you the latest news, to control your home speakers and TV, to ask for the weather forecast, and of course to order items from an online shop.

How it works

Unlike Amazon, which has its own inventory, Google Smart Devices depend on third party stores to get your orders delivered. These third parties are called Google Express partners. Some popular and trusted stores on this partner program include Costco, Target, Home Depot, PetSmart, and Walmart. 

Google Nest and Google Home Speakers come with pre-installed Google Assistant. To place orders, first activate Google Assistant. Then, use your natural way of speaking and look for items such as your favorite stores. 

For example, you can place an order for a product by saying “OK Google, order paper towels from CostCo”. The Google assistant will then fetch the most relevant product and tell you the price, asking you if you’re happy to confirm the order. By confirming, the order is immediately placed.

Extending Voice Shopping – Walmart Voice

Walmart is a leading retailer for grocery items. As of 2020, it has ended up having over 11,000 stores. From the USA to Asia, it operates in 27 different countries.

To make shopping easier and more convenient, Walmart partnered with Google and introduced the Walmart Voice orders application. Using it, you can order items through your smartphone, smartwatch, and any other smart home device.

1. To set up Walmart Voice order, simply say “Ok Google, talk to Walmart.”
2. On the next window, tap the link to connect and sign in to your Walmart account. To buy tomatoes, simply say “OK Google, tell Walmart to add fresh tomatoes to my cart.” or “OK Google, buy tomatoes” to immediately order them.
3. You will be told the price and asked to confirm the order.

Extending Voice Shopping – Order a Pizza!

Amazon Alexa is a powerful voice assistant. Third-party developers can extend Alexa’s abilities by adding new “Skills”.

For example, to order pizza you can use either the “Domino’s Pizza” or the “Pizza Hut” Amazon Skill. You can enable these two skills either via the Alexa app or via voice command.

After these skills are enabled, you can order pizza using voice commands. For example, after your setup Amazon Alexa with Pizza Hut Skill, you need to link it to your Pizza Hut Account. Afterward, simply say “Alexa, ask Pizza Hut to send the usual.” That should do it!

Benefits of Voice Shopping

Voice shopping makes online ordering all the way more convenient. 

While you don’t have a visual display to review different products, it can be perfectly convenient when reordering products you buy week in, week out.

This is especially handy in the kitchen where you can ask Alexa or Google to re-order staple products like kitchen towels, pet food, laundry detergent etc.

Alexa and Google provide personalized results when you ask them to order a product. So if you have previously ordered the product before, it will propose that one as opposed to a random selection.

If you don’t want to place an order via Alexa or Google, you can still add products to your shopping cart to be reviewed later.

Challenges of Voice Shopping

Everything has a downside, and voice shopping is no different. Compared with traditional e-commerce stores, voice shopping comes with inherent limits on how many products it can propose.

Although voice shopping is gaining momentum, it still has hurdles to overcome. Voice assistants are based on natural language processing to interpret requests from people. The accuracy of this natural language processing is not 100% so sometimes Alexa and Google can misinterpret your question or command. The accuracy of these voice assistants is constantly improving.

Sources

express.google.com
amazon.com

The post Voice Shopping: Place Orders with Alexa and Google Assistant appeared first on Smart Home Perfected.

That’s where Alexa comes in. This voice-activated device can be a lifesaver in an emergency. 

In this article, I explore how your Echo smart speaker can be used as a tool to reach out for help, and what are some of the limitations of its emergency response capabilities.

So, let’s dive into the details and tackle the most important question.

Can Alexa Call 911?

Alexa cannot call 911 directly unless you have synced your mobile phone account and signed up to “Verizon NumberShare – Home” or “AT&T NumberSync” in the US or “Vodafone OneNumber” in the UK.

Alternatively, you can subscribe to Alexa Guard Plus and avail of their emergency helpline to request emergency responders. Or you can call one of your own emergency contacts who can dial 911 on your behalf.

Note: It was possible to call 911 via an Echo Connect device however Amazon discontinued these devices in 2020.

Option 1: Verizon NumberShare and AT&T NumberSync

If you have a phone plan with AT&T or Verizon, you can connect your mobile number to an Alexa-enabled device to make and receive calls hands-free. For $5 per line per month, Verizon's Number Share service lets you link Alexa with your Verizon number. AT&T has a similar service called NumberSync. 

Once you're set up, you can make hands-free calls and Alexa will also tell you who's calling when you receive a call. You can even make emergency calls using your Alexa-enabled device with the following command.

• “Alexa, call 911”

Below is the 911 calling information from Verizon FAQs

Source: https://www.verizon.com/support/number-share-home-faqs/

Below is the 911 emergency calling information from AT&T FAQs

Source: https://www.att.com/features/numbersync/

Below is the 999 emergency calling information from Vodafone FAQs

Source: https://www.vodafone.co.uk/mobile/onenumber/amazon

How do I set up Verizon, AT&T, or Vodafone Calling on Alexa?

To configure either carrier on your Alexa account, 

• Go to the Alexa App,
• Go to More on the bottom right.
• Go to “Communication”
• Press on AT&T or Verizon
• Follow the steps to Link Your Account

Once complete, your mobile phone calls will be routed through your Alexa devices and you can then make outbound calls as needed (including emergency calls)

Below are screenshots of the process of connecting a Vodafone UK account to Alexa. It’s the same process for AT&T and Verizon

Option 2: Use Alexa Guard Plus

With Alexa Guard Plus, you can get help in an emergency just by talking to your Echo device. You can say:

• “Alexa, call for help” 

And you'll be connected to trained agents who can call the police, fire department, or ambulance based on the information you provide.

Guard Plus can also alert you if it detects activity in your home while you're away, like footsteps or glass breaking. You'll get a notification on your phone and a siren will play on your Echo.

Smart Lighting and Barking Dogs!

If you have connected smart lights and cameras, Alexa can turn on and off the lights to make it look like someone is home and play the sound of a barking dog to scare off intruders.

Setting up Guard Plus is easy. Just tap the button on the Guard Plus web page or say: 

• “Alexa, try Guard Plus.”

After you check out, you need to add an emergency address in the Alexa app to finish setting up Guard Plus and activate your subscription. Then to enable Guard Mode you simply say “Alexa, I'm leaving” and the white ring appears on the Echo speaker.

But remember, Guard Plus is not a professional monitoring service and cannot replace a traditional alarm system. For professional monitoring and other features, Guard Plus works with supported alarm systems from Ring, Scout Alarm, and ADT.

More information on Alexa Guard Plus here

Option 3 – Trigger Alexa Emergency Contact

In the US, Alexa can make phone calls to landline and mobile numbers. This is typically done via a list of contacts you upload. You can also set an “Emergency Contact”.

An Alexa Emergency Contact is someone you can tell Alexa to call or text for help in an emergency. You can set up an emergency contact in the Alexa app after you've set up Alexa Communications.

To set up an emergency contact, you need to choose someone from your contacts list and send them a message informing them that they are your emergency contact. Then, when you say one of the following phrases, Alexa will try to call or text your emergency contact:

• “Alexa, call for help”
• “Alexa, call my emergency contact”
• “Alexa, I need help”

If anyone in your house asks Alexa for help, Alexa will try to contact your emergency contact. However, if your Echo device is not connected to Wi-Fi or if the phone number is wrong, Alexa won't be able to reach your emergency contact.

How to set up an emergency Alexa contact

You can choose someone from your phone contacts to be your emergency contact, but it has to be a US number and can't be 911, a premium-rate number, a three-digit number, or a dial-by-letter number.

Remember to test this feature from time to time to make sure everything is working correctly. 

Option 4 – Use the “Ask My Buddy” Alexa Skill

Ask My Buddy is a network that can help you ask for help using just your voice. It's the perfect tool to contact a group of people that you trust in case of an emergency. It works with Alexa, so you can use your voice to let people know that you need help. All you have to do is set up a network of emergency contacts on Ask My Buddy website, and then, you can use Alexa to send them a message when you're in trouble.

How it works

When you say the following trigger words, the network will be alerted to check on you.

• “Alexa, Ask My Buddy to send help”
• “Alexa, Ask My Buddy to alert {Name}”

You can even choose to notify just one person or your whole network simply by giving Alexa a voice command. If you're a premium user, you can specify what the problem is. Your contacts will be notified using a message, phone call, or email.

It's important to understand that Ask My Buddy can't call 911 for you, but it lets you reach out to a group of people who can help you. The more people you contact, the better. 

How to set it up

You can easily set up Ask My Buddy by visiting the AskMyBuddy.net website and creating an account there. Then, access the Contacts page, add your emergency contacts, and link your account to Alexa. 

Option 5 – Use the “My SOS Family” Alexa Skill

My SOS Family is an alert system, similar to the “Ask My Buddy” skill that helps you get help quickly in an emergency. You can use your voice to activate it, and it contacts your pre-set SOS family contacts to ask for help. It's easy to use and works anytime, anywhere.

There are lots of ways to get help with My SOS Family, such as the below voice command to Alexa, their free smartphone app, or a special personal SOS number that can be speed-dialed.

•  “Alexa Open My SOS Family and send for Help”

Setting up My SOS Family is quick and easy. Just create an account and add your name and phone number, then add as many SOS contacts as you like. Your contacts don't need any special apps or Wi-Fi to receive alerts, and if you don't have access to Alexa, you can still use the app or landline as a backup.

More information here – https://www.mysosfamily.com/

Option 6 – Call a Family Member or Friend who can then dial 911

Similar to the emergency contact option, if you need to call 911 but cannot do it yourself, you can ask Alexa to call one of your contacts to request emergency responders.

Note: This is different from Option 1 where calls are relayed through your mobile phone carrier. These call options below are sent from Alexa’s servers.

You have two call options here

• “Alexa-to-Alexa Call” – which contacts another person's Alexa App or Echo speaker(s)
• “Alexa-to-Phone Call” – which contacts their landline or mobile number

As of November 2021, the “Alexa-to-Phone Call” option is now limited to 10 selected contacts.

Each person in your household with an Alexa profile can choose their own 10 numbers. If your contacts list is full, you can use the Alexa app to manage these contacts. 

When you want to make a call, simply tell Alexa “Call {Name}”. The person's phone (and possibly Echo device) will ring, and they can pick up the phone or ask Alexa to answer.

Not a bad option in an emergency.

Option 7 – Save the local police precinct’s landline number as a contact and ask Alexa to call that

While Alexa cannot dial 911 by default, you can try and store your local police precinct’s phone number as an emergency contact.

As it’s a landline number, Alexa should be able to dial it. The downside of this option is that a lot of police stations are very busy. Unlike calls to 911 which are answered almost immediately, calls to the local station may go unanswered which is of little help in an emergency.

For that reason, I don’t really recommend this approach.

Alexa Emergency Call FAQs

What happens when you ask Alexa to call 911?

When you ask Alexa to call 911, she will give you the response, “Sorry I can't help, please call emergency services directly with your phone” This is because Alexa is not yet equipped to call emergency services like 911 directly.

Why can't Alexa call emergency services directly?

Alexa cannot call emergency services directly because Federal Communications Commission guidelines require that devices making 911 calls provide location information, which Alexa is not capable of doing.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while Alexa cannot call 911 directly (unless via AT&T or Verizon), it's still a valuable asset in an emergency situation. As discussed, you can use Alexa to call a family member or friend who can then call for help on your behalf. Or you can utilize Alexa Guard Plus to access their emergency helpline to get assistance dispatched. 

Sources

FCC

The post 3 Essential Facts You Need to Know About Alexa’s Ability to Call 911 appeared first on Smart Home Perfected.

A few quick fixes can help fix this annoying problem. In this article, we've compiled all possible issues behind Alexa not playing music and their relevant solutions.

1. Restart Echo and Phone

We know this is the classic solution from most help center operatives, but restarting your Echo device and phone can easily get rid of your streaming problems. 

Start by removing your Echo's power cable, and wait for at least 20 to 30 seconds before plugging it back in. Then restart your phone and try streaming music again.

2. Wi-Fi Problems

Alexa requires an uninterrupted Wi-Fi connection to stream music without issues, and that's why any connection failures can result in interruptions mid-stream. 

Scroll through the different Wi-Fi issues highlighted below and try each of them to ensure it's not your internet causing the snag. 

Recent changes in properties of Wi-Fi router

If you've recently changed the password or name of your Wi-Fi network, it can stop your Echo from connecting to the internet. To fix the issue, you'll have to update the Wi-Fi settings on your device. 

Folks who don't see their Wi-Fi network may have to run a network scan and go from there. 

Shift to a faster connection

Sometimes your internet speed isn't what it needs to be to support a streaming device. This can happen due to weather changes, too many devices saturating a connection, or even a slow DNS server. 

Try connecting your Echo to your 5G internet connection by following the exact instructions in the heading above. That might help resolve your music streaming issues. 

Congested Wi-Fi connection

If you have one too many devices connected to your Wi-Fi at a time, it can cause problems with your Echo's streaming capacity because of over-saturation. Remove the devices you don't need at the time from your network to free up the internet speed and try streaming music again. 

Wi-Fi out of range

Quite a few things can interrupt your Echo's internet connection. For example, if you have appliances like baby monitors, microwaves, cordless phones, or any Bluetooth device near your Echo, they can interfere with its connection. Try shifting the Echo device to a less crowded location. 

Another common culprit is inadequate range. Place your Echo device in a higher spot in the home to get avoid interruptions playing havoc with your device's streaming ability. Generally, shifting to an elevated surface, like the top of a shelf, will resolve connectivity concerns.

3. Check subscriptions

Problems with subscriptions can also result in your Echo device being unable to play music. You'll require an active subscription to either Amazon Music Unlimited or Amazon Prime to stream music on Alexa.

Go through the following steps to check the status of your subscription

4. Check Network Firewall

Wi-Fi firewalls blocking your Alexa device or phone can also cause problems in music streaming. To fix this concern, you'll have to check if all the relevant firewall ports are open. 

5. Check Streaming Limit

Suppose you're using the Amazon app or several Echo devices to play music. In that case, you might not be able to use any other gadget to stream music through the same Amazon account because Prime Music's policy only allows users to stream on one device at a time. 

Check to see if that's the case, and stop streaming music on multiple devices.

6. Forget Echo

Get your Wi-Fi router to' forget' the Echo connection to ensure there's no firmware-related concern causing your Echo device to act up. Try to connect to the internet after a few minutes, and the problem may resolve itself.

7. Reset Alexa

Another weapon against problems with your Echo Dot device is a simple reset. This will help clear away any previous information and allow you to start anew. 

Knowing how to reset your device can also come in handy when moving homes or when you're giving away your device to someone else. It's a sure-shot way of wiping any previously stored info and is also useful when troubleshooting for streaming concerns.

8. Contact Amazon Customer Service

If you're still having trouble getting your Alexa device to play music after trying out all the possible solutions listed in this guide – it's time to turn to the professionals. 

Get in touch with Amazon Customer Service asap and explain your concern. They'll likely be able to suggest a suitable resolution.

The Verdict

We're hoping our research into all possible errors for the Alexa device not playing music has paid off, and you're back to listening to your favorite streams. 

If the fixes described here don't do the trick – Amazon's Customer Service will likely have the answer to your troubles. 

Sources

amazon.com

The post Solved: Alexa Not Playing Music appeared first on Smart Home Perfected.

This guide can help you troubleshoot and fix the problem. After all, without a reliable Wi-Fi connection, you can’t really do much with your Alexa device.

Possible reasons and solutions

1. Restart your devices

When you notice your device isn’t connected to your Wi-Fi network, the first step is to restart it. Simply power off and on your router and Alexa device. If you are struggling to restart the Alexa device manually, unplug it from the power outlet. Let it rest for a minute, plug it back, and power it on. 

Alternatively, if the device has a removable battery, remove the battery and unplug the drive. After a few minutes, return the battery, plug it back to the outlet, and turn the device on.

2. Check if the Router is turned on

If the device turns on successfully still without a Wi-Fi connection, move to the router. Make sure the router is on. Some router models integrate LED status lights. 

A red light typically indicates that the router is on but experiencing some trouble. A flashing or stable blue or green light indicates that the router is on and properly working. If you have the manual of the router, check the manual to check the LED status.

3. Check if the device is within range

If both devices are on and functioning, the next thing to observe is the Wi-Fi range. You have to ensure your Alexa device is within your router’s range. 

Ideally, you want the device to be within the visible range of the router. This ensures that the device receives the strongest connection. You also want to avoid obstacles between the router and the Alexa device’s path. 

Electronic devices such as TVs, microwaves, baby monitors, etc, and other obstacles such as walls can very easily interrupt your Wi-Fi connection or even stop it entirely. To fix this problem, place your device in an elevated space, such as a tall cabinet or shelf.

4. Crowded Wi-Fi

A crowded Wi-Fi network can very easily distort and interrupt your internet connection. If you have many devices depending on the same Wi-Fi network, speed and connectivity are always compromised. 

To fix this problem, reduce the number of devices connected to your Wi-Fi. Alternatively, you can upgrade your Wi-Fi connectivity to 5G.

5. Check Router Connectivity

Before you spend money or time fixing your existing router, make sure it works first. To check if your router works, connect it to another device. If it connects successfully, it’s probably the Alexa device that has a problem. If it doesn’t connect to the other device, continue troubleshooting the router.

6. Check network bands

Some router models integrate two Wi-Fi bands, i.e., 2.4 GHz and 5GHz bands.  This means that they will have different SSIDs. To see if your router has dual bands check the Wi-Fi setting on other devices such as your phone. You should see basic names such as phone -2.4 and phone-5.0.

First, make sure your Echo device and your phone are connected to the right band and have the correct login credentials. If this doesn’t work, you can switch the bands. Disconnect your device from one band and connect it to the other.

7. Check Wi-Fi settings

Next, check your Wi-Fi settings. Look at information such as password and network name. Cross-check the information with your device and update it. Additionally, check the firewall settings of your Wi-Fi connection using your laptop. 

A firewall setting can easily block the device from accessing the network. Additionally, check if you have an ad blocker. The adblocker in rare cases can also hinder the connection. If you have, disable it. Turn both the router and Alexa device off and turn them on again.

8. Check for software updates

Lastly, you must never forget to update your Alexa device software. Check for software updates on your device and make sure it has the latest version. To check for updates, long-press the mute button for 30 seconds. Doing so will let you know if your device is connected to the server or not.

9. Try a Factory Reset

If your echo dot won't connect to Wi-Fi, you can also reset the Alexa device to factory settings. However, opting to reset your device means that you will lose all your preset data. 

When you turn it on after the reset, you have to start from scratch, including setting up a new Wi-Fi connection. 

Resetting is simple. Go to the action button at the top of your device. Long press it for about 20 to 40 seconds. This will prompt the device’s ring light to turn yellow and then blue. Once it turns blue, it’s an indicator that the reset is complete and successful.

The Verdict

As you can see, if Alexa is having trouble connecting to the internet then there are some simple steps you can follow. Work through the above and if that doesn’t work out, you can always reset your device back to its factory settings. Leave a comment below with your experience!

Sources

amazon.com

The post Solved: Alexa Having Trouble Connecting to the Internet appeared first on Smart Home Perfected.

Note: It looks like the Samuel L Jackson celebrity voice is no longer available. #bringBackSamuel

How to Change Alexa's Name/Wake Word?

Alexa jolts into to life anytime it hears the wake word “Alexa”. At times, she has that habit even when she doesn't hear it! If someone in your home is called Alexa or a name that sounds similar to it, then to avoid false activations, it's probably time to change the speakers “wake word”.

Great video from #CraigsTechTalk above on the various celebrity voices!

Step by Step Screenshots

Celebrity Voices for Alexa

By enabling a celebrity voice on your Echo, you can activate it by calling out the celebs name. For example: “Hey Shaq!”

It's worth noting that switching to a different voice on Alexa only affects the device you're using. So if you'd like to have multiple Echo speakers or displays use the same voice, you'll unfortunately have to set it on each one.

Can you Change Alexa's Voice to Samuel L. Jackson’s?

Unfortunately, its no longer possible to purchase the Samuel L. Jackson voice pack. Those who already have it can continue to use it until April 2023.

More info here

Can you Change Alexa's Voice to Shaquille O'Neal's?

Yes you can change Alexa's voice to Shaquille O'Neal's voice by buying the “Shaquille O'Neal Voice Pack”. While he can answer a lot of request, the system defaults to Alexa for anything out of his comfort zone!

You do this by saying …

• Alexa, introduce me to Shaq.

Or by purchasing on the link here. Once purchased you can enable on each Echo speaker by saying

• Alexa, enable “Hey Shaq”

To get the full Shaq experience, try out these commands!

• “Hey Shaq, tell me a joke.”
• “Hey Shaq, give me advice.”
• “Hey Shaq, drop a beat.”
• “Hey Shaq, let’s warm up.”
• “Hey Shaq, play rock, paper, scissors.”
• “Hey Shaq, tell me a story.”

Can you Change Alexa's Voice to Melissa McCarthy’s?

Yes you can change Alexa's voice to Melissa McCarthy’. Similar to Shaq, anything she's can't answer, will be answered by Alexa.

You set her up by saying …

• Alexa, introduce me to Melissa.

Or by purchasing on the link here. Once purchased you can enable on each Echo speaker by saying

• Alexa, enable “Hey Melissa”

To get some laughs try out these …

• “Hey Melissa, tell me about Bridesmaids.”
• “Hey Melissa, set a 10 minute timer.”
• “Hey Melissa, what’s the weather today?”
• “Hey Melissa, give me advice.”

Can you Change Alexa's Voice to Santa?

Ho, Ho, Ho! Yes, indeed you can! This holiday sweetener is great for kids but currently only available in the UK and US. With it he can sing holiday songs, tell stories and jokes, and answer questions about himself – check out the commands below.

A parents approval is needed to set Santa up so kick things off by saying…

• Alexa, enable “Hey Santa”

To get some laughs try out these …

• “Hey Santa, let's play a game.”
• “Hey Santa, give me advice.”
• “Hey Santa, what is your favorite food?”
• “Hey Santa, let's dance.”
• “Hey Santa, tell me a joke.”
• “Hey Santa, can you laugh?”
• “Hey Santa, tell me about your reindeer.”

Can you Change Alexa's Voice to Jarvis?

Unfortunately, if you're a Marvel Cinematic Universe fan hoping to change Alexa's voice to Jarvis, you will be disappointed. Despite some misleading information on the internet, Alexa does not currently offer the option to use Jarvis's voice. The same goes for Tony Stark's other AI voice assistants Friday, Karen and Edith.

You can find a list of the officially supported celebrity voices here and they change every now and then so keep an eye out.

Can you Change Alexa's Voice to Morgan Freeman?

No, unfortunately there is no official way to change Alexa to use Morgan Freeman's voice. Which is a pity as that is one distinctive, smooth voice!

Can you Change Alexa's Voice to HAL 9000?

“I'm sorry Dave, I'm afraid I can't do that!”. At least, there's no official way to do it which is a bummer for “2001” fans out there (myself included!)

How to change Alexa’s Name To “Computer”

For all the Trekkies, you can feel like you're on the Starship Enterprise by changing your voice assistant's wake word to “Computer”. Simply say “Alexa, change the wake word” and when given the options, say “Computer”.

Now you can feel like you're Captain Jean-Luc Picard on his way to planet Risa!

How to Change Alexa's Name on an Echo Show

Check out the images below on how you changes Alexa's wake word and voice on an Echo Show. In my case, this is an Echo Show 5 2nd Gen, however the same instructions work for all Echo Shows.

You swipe down from the top of the screen to reveal the menu

Click “Settings”, go to “Device Options” & Click “Wake Word”

Choose a new “Wake Word”

Can You Rename Alexa With a Custom Wake Word?

No, other than changing the “wake word” to Computer, Echo, Ziggy or Amazon, you can't change it to a custom word you might like. Disappointing, I know!

Echo devices are constantly listening for an audio pattern that matches the above official wake words and once it recognizes it, it then records audio and uploads to the cloud. Custom wake words would require a lot of processing on the Echo device itself which isn't what its built for.

The Verdict

So there you have it! If you were wondering “how to change Alexa's name” you now know. Changing Alexa’s accent, language, or even enabling a celebrity voice is surprisingly easy if you know what you’re doing. Leave a comment if you have other tips and tricks which might be useful to readers!

Sources

Alexa Forum

The post How to Change Alexa’s Name/Wake Word or Voice appeared first on Smart Home Perfected.

Steps to Put Echo/Alexa in to Pairing Mode

How to reconnect or disconnect a device

Common Questions Relating to Alexa in Pairing Mode

The Verdict

Hopefully, you’ve managed to pair your Echo Dot with any device in your home. Remember that the paired device needs to stay physically close to the Echo to remain active. If you want to connect a new device, disconnect the current one and command Alexa to find the new one.

Sources

amazon.com

The post Solved: How to Put Alexa in to Pairing Mode appeared first on Smart Home Perfected.

1. Alexa’s “Do Not Disturb” Mode to Disable the Alexa Purple Light

Every Amazon Echo Device comes with the “Do Not Disturb” mode. Similar to your smartphone, the “Do Not Disturb” feature on your Alexa device prevents announcements, notifications or calls from interrupting your day.

When the mode is enabled, you will see a quick flash of the Alexa purple light. Furthermore, any subsequent commands you issue to Alexa while it's still in this mode will also be accompanied by the Alexa purple ring flash as a reminder.

You have the option to activate or deactivate “Do Not Disturb” either through voice commands or by using the Alexa app. Moreover, you can establish a daily schedule to specify the times when this feature should automatically turn on and off.

Upon deactivating the “Do Not Disturb” mode, you can promptly access all the notifications that Alexa has been storing.

Lastly, it's important to note that alarms, reminders, and timers continue to be delivered even when “Do Not Disturb” mode is enabled.

How to Enable “Do Not Disturb” Mode

“Do Not Disturb” Schedule

You can also sync your “Do Not Disturb” settings to all of your Echo devices by clicking Sync in the top right corner.

How to Disable “Do Not Disturb” Mode

2. Alexa Purple Light: Wi-Fi issues During Setup

While not a common occurrence, the Alexa purple ring can pulse if it encounters Wi-Fi issues during device setup.

In my experience, this usually requires performing a full reset of your Echo device and starting the setup process again.

To perform a hard reset, you simply hold the action button on your speaker for 30 seconds. The action button is the one with the solid circle. You need to keep holding the button even after set up mode is entered to fully reset it.

Other Tips to Disable the Alexa Purple Ring

To make life easier when setting up an Echo speaker, it’s best to have Bluetooth enabled. This speeds up device provisioning as you don’t need to swap over to the Echo speaker's temporary Wi-Fi network.

Wi-Fi range and interference can be a cause of this Alexa purple light pulsing during setup. So I recommend standing close to the Wi-Fi router until setup is complete.

Your Wi-Fi configuration or security protocols may also be a factor to consider. It’s worth reviewing any firewall settings, MAC address filtering, Host configuration settings, etc. which may be blocking the connection.  

See more information on this issue here.

Alexa Purple Light: Conclusion

I hope the above sheds some light on the Alexa purple ring (pun intended!). If you’ve encountered the Wi-Fi issues mentioned, let us know in the comments your experience with what worked and what didn’t. Or check out our troubleshooting which can be found here.

Sources

amazon.com

The post 5 Simple Solutions to Brighten Your Day: Solving the Alexa Purple Light Mystery appeared first on Smart Home Perfected.

In case you were wondering if you could use these skills to fall asleep, good news. Amazon Alexa has thousands of skills to help you relax, meditate, and of course, fall asleep.

A good night's sleep is a prerequisite for a healthy life. If you don't get enough of it every night, the next morning you will feel tired and exhausted. If you can't afford to lose a single work-hour due to lack of sleep, you should try Alexa sleep sounds.

There are a vast number of sound options you can pick from, starting with the sound of rain, waves, forest, wind, crickets, fireplace, and so on. Moreover, you can play different variations of your selected music. For example, you can use either rain sound on the tent, heavy rain, or rain sound on the tin roof. Whatever suits you, Alexa Sleep sounds have got you covered.

Top 10 Best Alexa Sleep Sounds

Rain

Rain is probably the better sound to fall asleep to. With Alexa, you will get different variations of the rain sound. You can play it for a certain time or make a loop. To make Alexa play rain sound, simply say, 

“Alexa, play rain sound.”

Read More

Water Stream

Who doesn't like the sound of water flowing over rocks? Water Stream or Babbling Brooks, whatever you prefer calling it, is a soothing sound to relax your mind. Simply say the words, 

“Alexa, start Babbling Brook.”

Read More

Thunderstorm

For a more intense experience, you can make Alexa play the Thunderstorm sound. Along with the rain, you will be hearing lighting sounds as well. To relax in thunderstorms, say the words, 

“Alexa, start Thunderstorm sound.”

Read More

Waterfall

Another variation of water sounds is the waterfall. You will hear a water stream flowing towards a cliff and hitting the bottom while making a splashing sound. To listen to the waterfall sound, say 

“Alexa, play waterfall sound.”

Read More

White Noise

White noise is a rather abstract sound. It has no ups and downs. You will be hearing a smooth sound playing at the same tempo. This is what makes it perfect for meditation. The closest resemblance to this sound is the sound your TV makes when it has a problem connecting to the signal.

“Alexa, play white noise sound.”

Read More

Fireplace

What better way to get the warmth for falling asleep than listening to the sound of a fireplace? On a winter night, this is what provides the ultimate comfort. Moreover, you don't have to worry about cleaning up the ashes afterward.

“Alexa, play fireplace sound.”

Read More

Beach

Do you like the sound of waves? Who doesn't? The Beach sound on Alexa is a combination of waves and seagulls. While listening to it, you can vividly imagine sitting on the beach at sunset and trying to fall asleep.

“Alexa, play beach sound.”

Read More

Rainforest

Rainforests have a unique ambiance to them. Birds flying over your head, water dripping from leaves, and footsteps of curious animals, the perfect combination for relaxation.

“Alexa, play rainforest sound.”

Read More

Space Deck

What sounds do astronauts hear when cursing around the earth in a spaceship? If you are fascinated by the space, then listening to the sounds from a Space Deck will help you fall asleep faster.

“Alexa, play space deck sound.”

Read More

Spa Music

You can use Alexa to recreate the sound you usually hear at a spa. This is perfect for deep meditation. Moreover, you can also make Alexa play it on loop. You can also set a timer for it.

“Alexa, play spa music.”

Read More

Top Alexa Sleep Sound Creators

Alexa Skill – Sleep Sound by Alexa Jar

If you are new to Alexa skills and confused about how to add a skill, you can resort to the Alexa Jar Skill. This is a popular Alexa skill for sleeping sounds and hosts a combination of sounds for falling asleep, meditating, or simply sipping on coffee while sitting in your rocking chair. 

This skill includes sounds of rain, shower, whales, fountains, and 30+ different others. The free plan is enough for the average user, but if you want an edge, you can opt for the premium plan as well. It only costs $1.99 a month. After you get the premium plan, you can listen to HD quality sounds, make a 10-hour loop with no gaps, and also mix different sounds.

After you get this skill, simply say 

“Alexa, ask Sleep Sounds for a list.”

You will then hear all the supported sounds. If you want Alexa to surprise you say, “Random”, and Alexa will pick a random sound for you.

Alexa Skill – Sleep And Relaxation Sounds

Another leading sound skill for Alexa is Sleep and Relaxation Sounds. This skill is free for any Alexa user. To get started, say “Alexa, open Sleep Sounds.” To play specific sounds, say “Alexa, play rain sound.” Replace the word rain with the sound you want to hear.

This skill boasts a collection of 125 high-quality sounds. Whether you want to meditate, sleep, or relax, you will always find the right sound for that purpose. Also, if you want to focus on your studies, you can benefit from their collection of sounds for focus. If you have a baby at home, don’t worry, Alexa has sounds and lullabies to help your kids fall asleep too. 

The Sleep and Relaxation Sounds have both a free and a premium plan. With the premium plan, you will unlock the features to combine sounds, save custom ones, listen to higher quality sounds, and enjoy no gaps. To learn about membership plans, say 

“Alexa, ask Sleep Sounds about Membership”

Other Skills for Sleep Sounds

Best Alexa Sleep Sounds: Conclusion

We hope you now have everything you need to use the best Alexa sleep sounds and meditation sounds on your own. 

We have listed some of our favourite sleep sounds to get you started which we hope is helpful. If any particular sleep sounds work for you, please leave a comment below as it could help other insomniacs!

The post 2024 Best Alexa Sleep Sounds to Relax, Meditate or Doze Off! appeared first on Smart Home Perfected.

Quick Update: In 2021, Logitech announced they were pulling the plug on the Harmony smart remotes. They said they will continue to support existing users for the foreseeable future, while also updating the platform and adding new devices. However, they will no longer manufacture universal remotes. I've listed them below as they are selling off their existing stock, however, I've bumped them down the list.

Best IR/RF Blaster Remote Controllers

9.0

SwitchBot Hub 2

Top PickMatter bridge with built-in Temperature and Humidity Sensor

View Price

8.8

BroadLink RM4 Smart Home Hub

Runner-UpVersatile RF/IR Control for a truly universal remote controller

View Price

8.5

MoesGo Universal Remote Control

Affordable OptionCompact RF/IR Controller

View Price

8.0

Fire TV Cube

4K Amazon Streaming for making your TV experience even smarter!

View Price

My main recommendation is the SwitchBot Hub 2. It supports all the functions of a smart remote/IR blaster but also includes a thermometer, hygrometer, and light sensor to extend functionality for air conditioners and smart thermostats. 

As for an alternative, I can recommend the BroadLink RM4 which includes both IR and RF support.

My Experience

As mentioned, in my home, I’ve configured my smart remote to universally control all devices in my home theater using the MoesGo Wi-Fi IR Control Hub. 

This does away with 7 individual remotes which previously controlled my electric heater, projector, set-top box, HDMI switch, Android box, surround sound, and strip lights! 

For the finishing touches, I created an Alexa IR blaster by hooking up my smart remote control, which uses the SmartLife app with Alexa routines. 

I can now instruct her to “Activate Cinema” which turns on all devices simultaneously! I can also request her to “Switch to Chromecast” or “Switch to TV” which cycles through the various HDMI inputs between my switcher and projector.

Read on to learn about the best smart remote controls and which ones are best for your home!

9.0

Top Pick

1. SwitchBot Hub 2

Matter bridge with built-in Temperature and Humidity Sensor

View Price
On Amazon

The SwitchBot Hub 2 is a smart Wi-Fi thermometer and hygrometer that can extend your IR remotes into your smart home platform.

Specifications

• Sensors: Temperature, humidity, and ambient light
• Programmable Buttons: 2
• Batteries: No, plugs into a wall outlet
• Compatibility: Alexa, Google Assistant, HomeKit (via Matter), Siri, SmartThings, IFTTT
• Dedicated App: Yes
• Connectivity Options: Wi-Fi, BLE, and IR

With the ability to combine dozens of IR remotes and control them via voice commands and mobile apps, the SwitchBot Hub 2 stands out as my top smart IR blaster/universal remote. 

The hub can also track humidity and temperature, not to mention the ability to trigger scenes using two dedicated buttons; ideal for users who don’t use a smartphone or issue voice commands.

Compatibility

The hub supports Matter and can be used with SwitchBot Lock, Curtains, and Blind Tilts, as well as smart assistants such as Alexa, Google Home, and Siri. Read my guide on the Matter standard here.

The devices sync well with systems like Alexa, Google, and also Apple HomeKit via Matter.

Installation Complexity

Setup for the SwitchBot Hub 2, however, can be difficult. Some users found this stage somewhat tricky, while others reported issues with the adaptive brightness feature, mentioning that it makes the display too bright in dim rooms.

8.8

Runner-Up

2. BroadLink RM4 Smart Home Hub

Versatile RF/IR Control for a truly universal remote controller

View Price
On Amazon

With support for over 100,000 appliances, and 433MHz RF band, BroadLink’s RM4 Pro is the most widely-compatible smart remote for all your non-smart devices.

Specifications

• Sensors: Temperature and humidity via the Micro-USB cable (purchased separately)
• Programmable Buttons: No
• Batteries: No, plugs into a power brick via Micro-USB
• Compatibility: Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri, IFTTT 
• Dedicated App: Yes
• Connectivity Options: Wi-Fi, IR, and RF

The BroadLink RM4 Pro Smart Home Hub never fails to impress me with its versatility. It works well with 433MHz RF devices like curtain motors and light switches with the potential to cover more than 100,000 IR and RF-enabled devices.

This hub’s focus on smart functionality and user experience is one of its strong points. With voice and app controls, it works with popular platforms such as Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, IFTTT, and Siri. 

2.4GHz Wi-Fi

However, a major flaw that’s holding it back is 2.4GHz Wi-Fi. So it’s not as future-proof or universal as it claims to be. 

Also, some users have faced setup challenges and unstable connections with Wi-Fi.

8.5

Affordable Option

3. MoesGo Universal Remote Control

Compact RF/IR Controller

View Price
On Amazon

The Moes Go Universal Remote Hub is the most straightforward device to combine all your IR and RF remote controllers and control them via a compatible app.

Specifications

• Sensors: No
• Programmable Buttons: No, controlled and configured through the app
• Batteries: No, plugs into a wall outlet or charging brick
• Compatibility: Tuya/Smart Life App with Alexa and Google Assistant for voice commands
• Dedicated App: Yes
• Connectivity Options: 2.4GHz Wi-Fi, IR, and RF (IR-only option can be purchased separately for a lower price)

The MoesGo Control hub directly interfaces with the Tuya/Smart Life App, letting you command devices through your smartphone. It also supports voice assistants such as Alexa and Google Assistant, bringing hands-free voice control into the mix.

Supported Devices

This smart remote is a quick study, memorizing commands from your regular IR remotes. It can handle your TV, air conditioner, and dozens of other remotes.

Along with hundreds of compatible devices, you can also use the DIY copy function to make this smart remote controller learn to work with other smart devices and home appliances such as LED fireplaces, ceiling fans, or simple heaters. 

Notable Drawbacks

Unfortunately, this remote limits you to a 2.4G WiFi connection. On top of that, pairing with RF or IR devices could prove frustrating for beginners.

8.0

4. Fire TV Cube

4K Amazon Streaming for making your TV experience even smarter!

View Price
On Amazon

A hands-free smart remote from the world’s largest online retailer Amazon. The Amazon Fire TV Cube is the fastest and most popular Fire TV.

Specifications

• Sensors: No
• Programmable Buttons: No, but includes playback control and dedicate remote
• Batteries: No, Cube plugs into a wall outlet with 2 AAA batteries required for the remote
• Compatibility: Alexa
• Dedicated App: Yes
• Connectivity Options: Wi-Fi 6E

Note: Compared to the previous version of this product, the latest model comes with Wi-Fi 6E support for the latest home routers, a new faster processor, and additional HDMI, USB-A, and Ethernet slots.

The Amazon Fire TV Cube is the most powerful and reliable remote controller that can stream video, music, and games to your TV. 

Fire TV is compatible with multiple streaming platforms. You can connect it with Netflix, Prime Video, YouTube, HBO, Apple TV, and many more. 

Voice Commands

Thanks to voice command compatibility, you can extend control to your smart devices and appliances from across the room. You can also use the Alexa Voice Remote to adjust the volume on your TV without having to convey a voice command.

Besides that, you can use this smart hub to change the live cable or cable channels using your voice. Even when the TV is off, you can use simple voice commands to make Alexa check the weather or turn on the lights. 

Streaming Features

As soon as you get this upgraded Fire TV, you will get access to 4K Ultra HD content, and support for Dolby Vision, HDR, and HDR10+.

This smart Fire TV control is compatible with a soundbar and an A/V receiver. 

Also, performance has improved: it's faster and more responsive. With an octa-core processor, it smoothly switches between apps and handles graphic-intensive games pretty well.

Issues

All that being said, some users did hit a few snags when trying to set it up.

Syncing the remote and other gadgets can also be tricky as updates and resets can be necessary to get it to work right. Overall, it might take some patience to set everything up.

8.0

5. SofaBaton X1 Universal Remote Control

Customizable Scenes and Universal Control for Home Entertainment Systems

View Price
On Amazon

The X1 universal remote can control most of your home entertainment devices, from your TV to your gaming console, AV receivers, and even your smart devices like Philips Hue and Sonos Speaker.

Specifications

• Sensors: No
• Programmable Buttons: Yes, several physical buttons and “One-Touch” Activities that can be selected from the remote’s display
• Batteries: Yes, the remote comes with rechargeable batteries
• Compatibility: Alexa and Google Assistant for voice commands
• Dedicated App: Yes
• Connectivity Options: Wi-Fi, IR, and Bluetooth

The SofaBaton X1 Universal Remote Control can merge all of your entertainment and smart devices into a single remote controller. 

It supports over 500,000 IR and Bluetooth devices covering everything from TVs to game consoles, smart lights, and speakers.

SofaBaton Hub

The SofaBaton X1 comes with a hub, remote controller, and two extra IR boosters, making it one of the best IR smart remotes on the market. 

The hub centralizes the smart remote, allowing you to incorporate your existing remote controllers and provide smart functionality such as voice commands and the option to control scenes or smart devices using the dedicated remote. 

On top of that, you can ping the remote using the hub, which can be extremely helpful in a pinch.

Dedicated Remote

The SofaBaton X1 remote has light-up keys, meaning it’s easy to see in the dark. Plus, its 2-inch screen helps in quickly-switching devices and scenes, ensuring a seamless entertainment experience

Known Issues

The X1's compatibility with home assistants is a standout feature. However, users have reported certain issues - from interface problems to the device forgetting saved macros, and scenes.

7.8

6. Frankever Smart IR Remote Control

Highly Affordable Hub to Consolidate Dozens of IR Remotes

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On Amazon

The Frankever Wi-Fi smart hub is a much more affordable alternative that’s compatible with over 50,000 devices. Whether that’s entertainment, A/C, fans, light switches, and more.

Specifications

• Sensors: No
• Programmable Buttons: No, controlled and configured through the app
• Batteries: No, plugs into charging brick via USB
• Compatibility: Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri, IFTTT
• Dedicated App: Yes
• Connectivity Options: 2.4GHz Wi-Fi and IR

FRANKEVER’s R4 is a pocket-sized IR remote hub that can replace dozens of your IR remotes. It’s compatible with over 50,000 infrared appliances, whether that’s TVs, DVD players, air conditioners, fans, and more.

It brings it all to your phone via the Smart Life app, turning it into a true universal remote.

Voice Assistants and Custom Scenes

There's good news for Alexa, Google Assistant, and IFTTT users as the hub is voice command-friendly and allows you to customize scenes and timers with the included remote controllers. 

So, want to switch on the A/C at a particular time, condition, or voice command? Consider it done!

iPhone users aren't left out either as it easily complies with Siri's instructions.

Difficulty of Initial Setup

Unfortunately, like many other hubs on this list, the initial setup can be a pain, especially for newcomers.

7.5

7. Logitech Harmony Companion

DISCONTINUED – Over 270,000 compatible devices!

View Price
On Amazon

The Logitech Harmony Companion (including Hub) is one of the first smart remote controllers of it's kind; featuring voice commands and a dedicated App to control scenes and devices.

Specifications

• Sensors: No
• Programmable Buttons: Yes, controlled and configured through the app
• Batteries: Yes, rechargeable remote controller with the hub plugged into a wall outlet
• Compatibility: Alexa
• Dedicated App: Yes
• Connectivity Options: 2.4GHz Wi-Fi and IR

DISCONTINUED

The Logitech Harmony Companion is more than a TV remote. Known for top-notch electronics, Logitech built this tidy gadget to be handheld and fully customizable for smart home technology.

The remote has a Lithium Metal battery so you can easily recharge the remote while you control your smart devices via the Harmony Remote app.

Use Cases

This smart remote controller works with over 270,000 smart devices that include Smart TVs, satellite and cable boxes, Apple TVs, Game Consoles, Philip Hue lights, and many more.

Users can easily set up this device from their computer or use the dedicated app that is available for both iOS and Android.

Drawbacks

I like how it consolidates control of a ton of different devices into a simple hub. But, there's a catch: setting it up could requires some patience and technical know-how.

7.5

8. Logitech Harmony Home Elite

DISCONTINUED – Great touchscreen interface

View Price
On Amazon

The Logitech Home Elite remote is the quintessential big brother with customizable One-touch functions and an improved remote controller

Specifications

• Sensors: No
• Programmable Buttons: Yes, controlled and configured through the app
• Batteries: Yes, rechargeable remote controller with the hub plugged into a wall outlet
• Compatibility: Alexa
• Dedicated App: Yes
• Connectivity Options: 2.4GHz Wi-Fi, IR and RF

DISCONTINUED

The Logitech Harmony Elite beats older models with a touchscreen display, customizable one-touch options, and a better rechargeable battery.

Even though it's discontinued, I’m still love its features, allowing it to control many devices, and establish itself as a true universal remote thanks to constant updates.

All good things aside though, this smart controller does run into the same faults as the competition. Users do mention its complex setup and non-intuitive mobile app interface.

What are Smart Remotes and IR/RF Blasters?

A smart remote control is a device that can wirelessly control various electronic devices such as TVs, streaming devices, sound systems, and smart home devices. 

It relies on Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or infrared technology to communicate with the devices, allowing users to easily manage and operate them from a single remote, mobile app, or even through voice commands. 

Depending on their functionality, you can also make them trigger scenes, allowing you to automate your non-smart devices by mimicking their specific remote controller’s behavior. 

Further Automation

This opens up a new realm of possibilities, allowing you to automate scenes such as turning off the TV at a specific time or turning on the air conditioner when it’s too hot (with the help of a smart thermometer). 

What to Look for When Purchasing a Smart RF/IR Blaster Remote Controller

With the ability to combine the behavior of all your existing non-smart remotes and take center stage as the virtual conductor for your smart home orchestra. These devices are truly invaluable. 

However, they tend to be more expensive and might run into certain issues, so making sure you pick the right device is paramount. 

So when picking a smart IR/RF blaster to de-clutter your remote controllers, you need to look for:

Compatibility

In this regard, it's not just about whether the remote can connect to your devices, it's about how well it integrates with your existing smart ecosystem. 

Take the SwitchBot Hub 2, for instance. It's not just designed to control SwitchBot devices. It's also able to absorb the operation of many IR remote controllers and help bridge them into large-scale platforms like Alexa and Google Assistant, opening up possibilities for advanced control and automation.

Ability to Take on Both IR and RF Remotes

In the same vein, if your home is strewn with infrared and RF devices, your smart remote should be able to handle both. 

Like the BroadLink IR/RF Smart Home Hub, which speaks both IR and RF languages fluently. Or the SofaBaton X1 Universal Remote, which has a database compatible with up to 500,000 IR & Bluetooth devices.

Try to Ensure Compatibility With the Direct Brand and Models of Your Existing Devices

So, be sure to check – and double-check – that whichever smart remote you're considering plays nice with all your existing tech. 

It's not a fun surprise to find out your new remote can't talk to half the devices in your house, trust me.

Ease of Use

Besides their premium price tag, the steeper learning curve is what many users complain about with these types of smart remote controllers. 

As such, a key consideration should be how effortlessly you can combine another remote and control it.

Look For a Seamless Setup Process 

Ideally, your remote should involve a setup process that's a cinch to navigate through. For instance, consider the SwitchBot Hub 2. 

It's a smart device, but its real genius is in its user-friendly nature. The setup is simple and it even boasts smart buttons for easy control.

Similarly, the BroadLink RM4 Pro comes equipped with a user-friendly app – no fuss, just function. 

Futureproofing

When choosing a smart remote control, be mindful of its ability to scale and adapt to your needs. 

Both BroadLink RM4 Pro and the SwitchBot Hub 2 flexibly accommodate new devices, growing with your smart home. The scalable nature of these remote controls lies in their compatibility, and learning capabilities. 

Learning Ability and Frequently Updated Libraries

The BroadLink includes an online updated IR library and manual learning option for new devices, making it adaptable as you add more to your home automation. 

The same goes for SwitchBot, boasting a smart learning feature, allowing it to cater to the addition of multiple infrared remotes. 

Making sure you go for a device with these futureproof functions will prevent the need for replacements as your smart home expands.

Extra Features

When selecting a Smart Remote, you need to consider additional features that align with your usage habits and preferences. 

For instance, if you use an air conditioner, humidifier, or space heater, the SwitchBot Hub 2 or BroadLink IR/RF Smart Home Hub might be beneficial. 

Using Sensors and Other Smart Devices to Enhance Automation

They’ve got the option to interface directly with sensors that can help you automate certain functions. This can be anything from turning on the A/C at a particular temperature to turning on the lights when it gets dark.

That being said, you can do the same thing, provided you have third-party smart sensors set up and connected to the same platform. 

Programmable Buttons and Triggers

Also, let's not forget about programmable buttons – having the ability to streamline your favorite activities or scenes is a game-changing feature. 

The Fire TV Cube perfectly embodies this idea, enabling you to not only control your TV but also manage other smart home devices with ease. 

So make sure to note down the programmability of these smart remotes and map out their functions to see if they can contribute to your ideal smart home setup.

How I Tested

This lineup was a passion project for me because, with my experience using the MoesGo Universal remote controller in my home, I have firsthand experience of what it’s like to set these up and use these devices for an extended period.

However, I also did extensive online research on various other smart remote controllers. 

Mainly, I focused on factors such as ease of setup and use, compatibility with different devices and brands, range and reliability of the blaster, and integration with mobile apps and voice commands.

Based on my personal experience plus a good deal of research and testing, I was able to compile a list of the best smart remote controllers.

As such, I made sure to include devices that covered a range of features and budgets since not everyone is willing to go for the MoesGo Universal.

FAQs

What is a Smart IR/RF Blaster Remote Controller and How Does it Work?

An IR/RF blaster with smart remote control is a device that allows you to control multiple smart devices, like your TV, sound system, and streaming services, all from one central hub.

It works by copying the settings of your non-smart remote and then mimicking the appropriate signal.

Can I Use a Smart IR/RF Blaster Remote Control with All My Existing Devices?

Most of these smart remote controllers are designed to work with a wide range of devices, including popular brands of TVs, sound systems, and streaming devices. However, it's always a good idea to check the compatibility list or the manufacturer's website to ensure your specific devices are supported.

That being said, some devices do offer the option to “learn” or manually program a specific remote controller. However, they still need to follow the same IR/RF frequency band for this to work.

Do I Need an Internet Connection for these IR/RF Smart Remote Controllers to Work?

Yes, you'll need an internet connection for the initial setup and to download any necessary updates or firmware. Once your smart remote control is set up, it can control your devices without requiring an active internet connection.

That being said, you will miss out on app control and voice commands, so being connected to the internet is the best option. 

Are Smart IR/RF Blasters Remote Controllers Easy to Set Up?

Unfortunately, most of these devices can be difficult for beginners to set up. This is an issue that’s very common across these types of devices since there are thousands of non-smart controllers that use different signals to control their corresponding equipment and appliances. 

So unless you’re configuring a remote for a popular brand of TV, air conditioner or entertainment system, you might have a tough time getting to copy the behavior of certain remote controllers to this smart device. 

What’s the Difference Between a Smart IR/RF Blaster and Non-Smart Universal Remote Controllers Sold by Third Parties 

While both universal and smart remotes can operate multiple devices, there’s a significant difference in their capabilities. Universal remotes can control devices like your TV, Blu-ray player, set-top box, and home theater system. 

In contrast, a smart remote extends to modern tech like smart lights or thermostats. It’s the universal remote's gadget-savvy cousin – commanding a greater ecosystem with a touch, a swipe, or a voice command.

What are the Pros and Cons of Setting Up a Smart IR/RF Blaster?

Smart remotes offer control over many devices, and customization, and often include voice commands. 

However, they can be more costly than basic remotes, and depending on your tech aptitude, difficult to set up and automate. 

Verdict 

9.0

SwitchBot Hub 2

Top PickMatter bridge with built-in Temperature and Humidity Sensor

View Price

8.8

BroadLink RM4 Smart Home Hub

Runner-UpVersatile RF/IR Control for a truly universal remote controller

View Price

References

• https://www.switch-bot.com/
• https://www.broadlink.ae/product-page/broadlink-rm4-pro
• https://www.sofabaton.com/x1.html

The post 8 Smart Remote Controls – Alexa Control with IR / RF Blasters appeared first on Smart Home Perfected.

This can occur spontaneously or when moving the device to another location. It can result in not being able to hear Alexa’s responses, or not being able to hear music or other people on video calls or drop-ins. Other times alarms, reminders or news updates may be missed due to the issue.

In this article, I walk through 12 troubleshooting steps to try to resolve the problem. To help others out, it would be great if you could leave a comment at the bottom of the page and let everyone know what worked for you and what didn’t.

Note: This article relates to all versions of the Amazon Echo Show from the original 1st and 2nd generation devices to the newer Echo Show 5 (1st & 2nd Gen), Echo Show 8 (1st & 2nd Gen), Echo Show 10 (3rd Gen) and Echo Show 15.

Before we get started, I'm making the assumption that the volume is not all the way down to the point where no sound is coming out! If that’s the case then simply turn it up by pressing the plus button or saying “Alexa, increase volume”. Anyway, on to the list!

1. Restart Device by disconnecting power cable from back of Echo Show

To power cycle a device, I typically advise people to plug out a device from the wall outlet, wait 30 seconds and then plug it back in. However for the Echo Show, Amazon actually recommends the opposite – i.e. unplug from the device as opposed to the wall.

I’m not sure if this is a specific hardware issue with the Echo Show 2nd Gen, however this technique seems to regularly work to solve the problem.

While not a permanent fix, this seems to be the most common way to temporarily resolve the problem of no sound with your Amazon Echo Show.

Below are the step-by-step instructions on how to do this correctly.

There’s an entire thread of irate Echo show owners over on the Amazon forum here if you’d like to read up more about this.

2. Ensure Bluetooth Is Not Connected or Turn up Bluetooth Speaker

The second most likely reason for sound problems with your device is that it is connected to a bluetooth speaker which is turned down. In this scenario, it is best to either unpair the bluetooth device from the Amazon Echo Show so the native speaker is used, or simply find the bluetooth speaker and turn it up!

Below are step-by-step instructions on repairing your bluetooth speaker in case there's an issue with that connection.

3. Unplug Aux Cable if Connected

Similar to the Bluetooth example, if you have an external speaker connected via the auxiliary cable, that device may be turned off or turned down.

4. Microphone disabled / muted

Another obvious one! It's possible that the problem is not with a lack of sound from the device, but that you have the mute button switched on so Alexa cannot hear your commands to respond to!

On the top of the device is the “disable microphone” button. Once you see the red indicator, you know the device is muted and the microphones are switched off. Sliding back or pressing this button will allow the device to pick up commands which it can then respond to.

No Sound on Audio/Video Calls or Drop-Ins

If you are not hearing sound from another party in a call or drop-in, then it’s possible that they have their microphone disabled.

Similar to your own device, they’ll need to ensure the red light is not showing on their device.

5. Nearby Echo speaker picking up commands

I’ve had situations where I’ve asked Alexa on my Echo Show a question, and instead of responding, another Echo speaker in a different room responded. 

If the volume level is quite low on that other Echo speaker, then it might seem like there’s no sound coming from your Echo Show.

If multiple devices hear a question, the one that hears it the loudest should respond however that’s not always the case.

If you suspect this may be happening to you, you can confirm it in your Voice History on the Alexa app where a single command will be listed more than once with the other recordings tagged  as “Audio was not intended for this device.”

Finally, if this is your problem, then the only solution may be to move one of the devices further out of earshot.

6. Wrong Name for Speaker or Group

If you are trying to play music or a podcast by using the device's name or a group name, you may have the name wrong.

You can check the name of the device and any groups or multi-room groups the device is in, by going to the Alexa App and clicking Devices.

By clicking Echo & Alexa, you can see the exact name of your Echo Show.

On the Devices screen you can see the various Group names and by clicking in you can see which devices are in which group.

You can do this by going to the Alexa App and clicking Devices. At the bottom you’ll see Speaker Groups and from there you can edit existing multi-room setups.

7. Multi-Room Setup

Similar to the above scenario, if you are facing the issue of no sound coming from your Echo Show while trying to play music in a multi-room group setup, here is a recommendation. Try removing and adding the device to the group again and if that doesn't work, try deleting and setting up the multi-room group again.

8. Do Not Disturb Mode Enabled

If you are awaiting a call, notification or message which does not come through, it’s possible that Do Not Disturb mode is enabled on your Echo Show.

You can check this by swiping down on your device to see if the Do Not Disturb feature is toggled on.

9. Out of Date Software

Software updates can sometimes resolve sound issues on your Alexa Echo Show. To check for and install software updates, follow these steps:

If there are any available software updates, your Echo Show will automatically download and install them. After the updates have been installed, restart your device and see if the sound issue has been resolved.

10. Factory Reset your Echo Show

If none of the above work, it’s worth factory resetting your device back to its default settings.

To do this you swipe down on your Echo Show and go to Settings > Device Options. At the bottom, you have the option to Reset to Factory Defaults. Press this and then follow the instructions to wipe the device and start fresh.

This may help if there was a corrupted firmware update that caused a problem with the sound output.

You can also deregister and re-register your device on the Alexa App.

11. Use the correct power adapter

If you’re not using the power adapter that originally came with your Echo Show, then you may encounter some odd behavior. This can happen if the voltage and amperage is lower or higher than what the Echo Show requires to run correctly.

In this instance, it's best to find the original power cord or look for an official replacement online.

12. Damaged / Faulty Hardware

In my experience, I encountered a problem with an Echo speaker which in retrospect was located too close to a sink and eventually suffered water damage.

If your Alexa Echo Show has been damaged, it, unfortunately, might be time to replace it. On the other hand, if your device is new and has never produced sound, it is worth exploring the possibility of a replacement under warranty.

Sound is playing but is distorted

In some cases, you may experience some trouble with sound distortions. This may be that the audio is not working properly, is muffled or difficult to hear. The Amazon Echo Show has multiple built-in speakers.  In some cases, some of these speakers may be working just fine whilst others may not be.

The main cause of distorted audio is prolonged music playback on high volume, which can result in damage to the speakers. If the audio is crackly or makes a popping noise, you may have to replace the speakers inside the device or the device itself.

If you experience trouble with audio on one or both speakers, the internal cable connections that connect the speakers to the rest of the device may be frayed.

If your device is still within warranty, you could look to get a replacement.

If not and you have the skills, you could open the speakers to fix and reattach the connections. There are guides available online on how to do so. You should remember that the moment you pop open your speakers, you will forfeit your warranty so it's definitely your last port of call. Therefore, if you are unsure of what to do, it is best to contact customer support for guidance on what to do next.

At SmartHomePerfected we always advise readers not to undertake any work they are not competent in performing and if in any doubt, it is best to seek the assistance of a professional.

When all else fails … contact customer service and look for a replacement!

If you have worked through this guide and still have no sound coming from your Amazon Echo Show or are having persistent problems requiring regular reboots, it may be time to pick up the phone and contact customer service. If the device is still under warranty you may be entitled to a replacement if the issue is a manufacturing fault.

Conclusion

I hope this guide helps you resolve your problems with your Amazon Echo Show. 

If you have any thoughts or feedback on the troubleshooting tips detailed above, it’d be great to hear from you in the comments below.

Sources

amazonforum.com

The post Solved in 2024: No Sound from your Amazon Echo Show! appeared first on Smart Home Perfected.

Does Alexa need a steady WiFi connection to work at its best? A lot of Alexa's key features rely heavily on applications and services that are based in the cloud. Consequently, it's crucial to ensure consistent internet access through a dependable WiFi network.

There are a small subset of features on an Echo speaker or display that can still function without an active Wi-Fi or internet connection. The specific features available depend on the exact model you have. Below I walk through what features work without Wi-Fi and how you can use your Echo device without having a fixed internet connection.

Note: The latest Echo Show displays can be connected to the internet via a micro-USB > Ethernet adapter. In this case, you don’t need Wi-Fi, yet you can still avail of all Alexa features. 

Why Alexa needs Wi-Fi for most functions

Alexa’s functions can be broadly broken down into local / on-device functions and cloud functions. 

For example, Alexa uses audio pattern-recognition software installed on the Echo speaker to recognize the “wake word”. Once it hears the “wake word”, it then records the audio request and sends it to the cloud for processing. The cloud service then interprets the request using “natural language processing”, carries out an appropriate action (such as checking if there is traffic in the area) and sends the response back to the device, to be relayed to the user. 

In the above example, without an active Wi-Fi or internet connection, Alexa won’t be able to send the request to the cloud. This is why the vast majority of Alexa features won’t be available without Wi-Fi.

Does Alexa Need WiFi: What Alexa features work without WiFi or when your device is offline?

Certain models of Echo speakers and displays can support a limited number of voice commands to carry out various functions. This is similar to the audio pattern-recognition software used to recognize the “wake word”, so cloud processing is unnecessary.

1. Basic Features

Without Wi-Fi, you can ask your Echo device to increase, decrease and control your volume level. As it has an internal clock, it can still give you the date and time. You can also dismiss reminders, alarms and timers that were previously set and scheduled to go off as these are saved on the device and not in the cloud. You can’t however create new timers, reminders or alarms as this requires cloud processing.

2. Smart Device Control

Certain Echo devices have an inbuilt Zigbee radio which allows them to be used as a smart home hub. This includes the Echo 4th Gen, Echo Plus (1st and 2nd Gen) and Echo Studio speakers alongside the Echo Show 10 (2nd & 3rd Gen) smart display. The various Echo Dot speakers do not have this Zigbee chip.

By pairing your Zigbee light switches, bulbs, plugs and locks to Alexa, you can then control them via this Echo hub.

You can enable “Local Voice Control” by going to the Alexa App > Devices > Select the Echo device > Settings > Local Voice Control. 

This allows you to use a limited set of voice commands to control these devices if your Wi-Fi or internet connection goes down.

Note: As ridiculous as it sounds, you actually need to be online to enable local voice control in the app! Also I’ve seen some discussion online noting that this setting has disappeared for some users with newer devices – I’m not sure if it’s simply becoming a standard fallback option when the Wi-Fi cuts out or if Amazon are discontinuing the feature.

3. Bluetooth

Your Echo device can be configured to act like a Bluetooth speaker, so you can stream music or podcasts from your phone without Wi-Fi.

For Echo speakers, unfortunately, you need Wi-Fi to initially pair your phone to your speaker. Once paired, you then no longer need Wi-Fi. You can achieve this by setting up a temporary Wi-Fi hotspot from your phone which I walk through in the next section.

As Echo Show devices have a display interface, you can access the Bluetooth settings menu and pair a device without a Wi-Fi connection.

Note: Alexa on a Fire TV stick is 100% dependent on a Wi-Fi connection and cannot operate at all without it.

How to use your Echo Speaker as a Bluetooth Speaker

How to use your Echo Show Display as a Bluetooth Speaker

How to connect Alexa using mobile data and a hotspot

Using a mobile hotspot is a simple alternative to connect your Echo speakers and displays to the internet without having access to a fixed Wi-Fi router. After all, the principle is the same as using a dedicated Wi-Fi connection for your home or office.

As discussed in the last section, this is great if you want to quickly pair your phone to your Echo speaker over Bluetooth and then use it offline.

All you need to have is a smartphone that has its own data internet connection and data package with a provider. So, below is a step-by-step outline of how to connect Alexa to a mobile hotspot.

Note: Echo speakers can download a large amount of data so make sure you have a mobile data plan to support this type of connection.

How does a mobile Hotspot work?

Mobile hotspots work similarly to a Wi-Fi connection. Your smartphone uses its hot-spot online connection to a data network as if it were a broadband data source.

Your mobile phone hot-spot uses its 3G/4G/5G cellular network to connect to the internet and then share this connection with other devices.

So, if you are in a home with no broadband connection, you can instead use your smartphone’s data package to provide online access to electronics such as a smart TV, laptop, or Alexa devices through the mobile hot-spot. You must ensure that your mobile data connection is strong though and you have a data package large enough to facilitate these other devices. Otherwise, you may end up with a rather large bill from your mobile carrier.

I hope that the above sheds some light on using your Alexa device without Wi-Fi and the possible workarounds.

Sources

https://www.amazon.com/gp/help/customer/display.html?nodeId=201602230

https://developer.amazon.com/en-US/docs/alexa/smarthome/zigbee-support.html

https://www.amazonforum.com/s/question/0D56Q00009T2o0jSAB/does-echo-4th-gen-support-local-voice-control

The post 5 Essential Facts: Does Alexa Need WiFi to Function Effectively? appeared first on Smart Home Perfected.

Sure, Alexa is great for checking the weather or getting the latest news, but sometimes it's fun to mix things up and see how she responds. Asking her to tell a joke or asking strange questions can lead to some hilarious responses.

And that's where Super Alexa Mode comes in! It's one of the many “Easter Eggs” hidden within Alexa's programming. Think of it like a secret code that unlocks a special mode where Alexa talks like a video game character. It's silly, it's fun, and it's definitely worth trying out!

What Is Super Alexa Mode?

Super Alexa Mode is a secret command that activates a fun easter egg hidden in Alexa. When triggered, Alexa responds with a nerdy joke and sound effects.

How To Unlock Super Alexa Mode

You can activate Super Alexa Mode on your device with the right sequence of voice commands. This mode won’t actually add or remove any features, so no need to worry!

All you gotta do to enable it is repeat these words out loud …

“Up, up, down, down, left, right, left, right, B, A, start.”

If you nail it, Alexa will reply …

“Super Alexa mode activated. Starting reactors, online. Enabling advanced systems, online. Raising dongers. Error. Dongers missing. Aborting.”

And that’s it! Alexa will then go all hush-hush on you. Now, don't get too excited because it doesn't really DO anything. But hey, it’s still a cool party trick to impress your friends, right?

What is the origin of the Super Alexa Mode Code?

The code used to activate Super Alexa mode is the Konami code. This code was created by a programmer named Kazuhisa Hashimoto, who was the head developer for a popular game called Gradius on Nintendo.

While developing the game, Hashimoto thought it was too difficult, so he made a secret code to make it easier for him to play. He was going to take the code out before they sold the game, but he forgot. Other people found out about the code and started using it in other Konami and Non-Konami games, such as Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, BioShock, and Tetris Effect.

Is Super Alexa Mode dangerous?

Super Alexa Mode is simply a hidden Easter egg feature that allows users to activate a secret conversation between themselves and Alexa.

It's not dangerous and simply triggers a series of words and phrases. It does not provide any additional functionality or features to the device. and is meant for entertainment purposes only.

What Can Super Alexa Mode Do

Not a lot! Some believe that this mode activates a whole range of new features, but in reality, it doesn't. After triggering the mode, Alexa will not have any additional features. 

The sole purpose of this mode is to let users mess around with their Alexa device.

Are there any other Alexa Easter Eggs?

We know how movies add Easter Eggs like hidden messages or inside jokes for viewers to discover. There are hundreds of Easter Eggs in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, for example. 

If you thought the Konami code was the only cool trick up Alexa's sleeve, you're in for a treat! There are many other Easter Eggs that Alexa has hidden away just waiting for you to discover. Here are some of the best ones:

• “Alexa, your base belongs to us.”
• “Alexa, beam me up.”
• “Alexa, do a barrel roll.”
• “Alexa, do you know Glados?”
• “Alexa, Simon says …”
• “Alexa, what's the first rule of Fight Club?
• “Alexa, launch Photon Torpedoes”
• “Alexa, launch Red Alert!”
• “Alexa, show me the money!”
• “Alexa, where is Chuck Norris?”

These are just a few examples of the many fun Easter Eggs that Alexa has in store for you. Make sure to try them all out and see if you can find any more hidden gems!

How do you turn Super Alexa Mode Off?

To turn it off, you can simply say …

• “Alexa, turn off Super Mode”

Although, there's usually no need to turn it off as it doesn't actually do anything!

Conclusion

So there you have it, folks! Alexa’s Super Mode can bring a smile to anyone's face, particularly if you're a retro gamer! Don't forget, it doesn’t actually have any functionality so there’s no need to worry about disabling it.

Happy “Easter Egg” hunting!

Sources

Konami

Wikipedia

Smart Home Perfected

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