Alexa’s default wake word can sometimes be problematic. Accidental activations, especially in households with similar names or frequent mentions of “Alexa,” are common. Thankfully, changing Alexa’s name is a straightforward process. This guide provides a step-by-step walkthrough on How To Change The Name Of Your Alexa device, offering solutions for personalized customization.
While completely renaming Alexa with any word isn’t possible, Amazon provides several alternative wake words to choose from. These options offer a degree of personalization while maintaining reliable functionality.
Melissa McCarthy for Alexa
Changing Alexa’s Wake Word: A Step-by-Step Guide
Here’s how to change Alexa’s name using the Amazon Alexa app:
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Open the Alexa App: Launch the Amazon Alexa app on your Android or iOS device.
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Navigate to Devices: Tap the “More” button (three horizontal lines) in the bottom right corner, then select “Devices.”
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Select Echo & Alexa: Choose “Echo & Alexa” from the “Device Type” dropdown menu and tap “Apply.”
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Choose Your Device: Select the specific Echo device you want to rename.
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Access Device Settings: Tap the settings gear icon in the top right corner of the device screen.
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Change the Wake Word: Scroll down and tap on “Wake Word.” You’ll see a list of available alternatives: “Amazon,” “Computer,” “Echo,” and “Ziggy.”
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Select Your Preferred Wake Word: Choose the wake word that best suits your needs and preferences. “Ziggy” is often the least likely to trigger accidentally.
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Confirm Your Choice: Once selected, Alexa will confirm the change. You can now use the new wake word to activate your device.
Customizing Each Alexa Device
Remember that wake word changes are device-specific. You’ll need to repeat these steps for each Alexa device you want to rename. This allows for personalized wake words in different rooms or for different family members.
Beyond Renaming: Exploring Other Alexa Customizations
While changing the wake word is a key personalization feature, you can also customize Alexa’s voice, language, and speaking rate within the same Device Settings menu. Experiment with these options to create a truly personalized Alexa experience.
Frequently Asked Questions About Changing Alexa’s Name
Why can’t I use any name for Alexa?
Amazon restricts wake word options to ensure accurate voice recognition and minimize accidental activations. The chosen wake words are phonetically distinct and less likely to be confused with everyday conversation.
Conclusion
Changing Alexa’s name, or rather, her wake word, is a simple yet effective way to personalize your smart home experience. By following these steps, you can reduce accidental activations and create a more customized interaction with your Alexa devices. While custom names aren’t supported, the available alternatives provide sufficient options for most users.
