A yellow ring pulsing on your Amazon Echo device can be perplexing. It’s one of several colored signals your Echo uses to communicate different statuses and notifications. This article will decode the mystery of the yellow light and explain other Alexa light ring colors and their meanings.
Alexa yellow light
If your Alexa is flashing yellow, it usually signifies that you have a notification or a missed reminder. This could be anything from a package delivery update to a reminder you set earlier. A cheerful “bum, bum!” sound often accompanies the flashing yellow light. Common notifications include:
- Package Delivery Updates: Alexa will notify you when an Amazon package has been delivered or when a “Subscribe & Save” item is about to ship.
- Missed Reminders: If you’ve set a reminder and haven’t dismissed it, Alexa will pulse yellow to alert you.
To address the yellow light:
- Hear Notifications: Say, “Alexa, tell me my notifications.” Alexa will read them aloud, and the yellow light will turn off.
- Delete Notifications: Say, “Alexa, delete all my notifications,” to clear them without hearing them.
Decoding Other Alexa Light Ring Colors
Beyond yellow, your Alexa device uses a variety of colors to communicate. Here’s a comprehensive guide:
Solid Red Light: Microphone Muted or Error
Alexa red light
A solid red light generally indicates that the microphone is muted. Press the microphone button again to unmute. If the microphone isn’t muted, the red light might signal an error like Wi-Fi connectivity issues or a problem with Alexa.
Blue Light with Spinning Cyan Segment: Alexa is Listening
Alexa blue light
When you speak to Alexa, a blue light appears with a spinning cyan segment pointing in the direction from which she’s listening. This light also indicates that Alexa is processing your request.
Spinning Orange Light: Setup Mode or Connection Issues
Alexa orange light
A spinning orange light means the device is in setup mode. If your device isn’t new, this light indicates potential internet connection problems.
Pulsing or Spinning Green Light: Incoming or Active Call
Alexa green light
- Pulsing Green: Indicates an incoming call. Say, “Alexa, answer,” or “Alexa, ignore.”
- Spinning Green: Signals an active call or a “drop in” from another Echo device. Say, “Hang up,” to end the call.
Purple Light: Do Not Disturb or Setup Issues
Alexa purple light
- Brief Purple Flash: Confirms Do Not Disturb mode is activated. This blocks calls and notifications, but not alarms or timers.
- Solid Purple During Setup: Indicates a problem with the Wi-Fi setup.
Spinning White Light: Away Mode
Alexa white light
A spinning white light means Alexa Emergency Assist (formerly Alexa Guard) is in “away” mode. Say, “Alexa, I’m home,” to deactivate it. A white light also appears when adjusting the volume.
Conclusion: Understanding Your Alexa Device
Understanding Alexa’s light signals allows you to interact with your device more effectively and troubleshoot any potential issues. The yellow light, signifying notifications, is just one piece of the puzzle. By familiarizing yourself with the full spectrum of colors, you can unlock the full potential of your Amazon Echo.
