Since Amazon Alexa burst onto the scene in 2014, millions have spoken the name “Alexa” countless times, issuing commands and asking questions. If you’re among those who use Alexa regularly, you might have wondered, “What Names Can You Change Alexa To?” While you can’t technically rename Alexa to something entirely different, you do have the power to change the wake word your Amazon devices respond to. This article will guide you through understanding and changing your Alexa device’s wake word, enhancing your smart home experience.
The default wake word for Amazon Echo and other Alexa-enabled devices is “Alexa.” However, Amazon recognizes that users may want more flexibility. That’s why they offer a selection of alternative wake words you can choose from. Unfortunately, completely custom names aren’t supported, but you can select from “Amazon,” “Echo,” or “Computer” in addition to the default “Alexa.”
This limited selection still provides valuable options for various reasons. Perhaps you have a household member named Alex, leading to accidental activations. Or maybe you simply prefer a different wake word for personal preference or to better suit your home environment. Whatever your reason, changing the wake word is a straightforward process that can be done via the Alexa app or directly through your device.
To clarify, while you can’t change Alexa’s name in the sense of giving it a completely new personal name like “Jarvis” or “Samantha,” understanding the concept of the “wake word” is key. The wake word is simply the trigger that tells your device to start listening for your commands. Changing it doesn’t alter Alexa’s functionality or personality, just the word you use to initiate interaction.
How to Change Your Alexa Wake Word Using the Alexa App
The easiest and most common method to change your Alexa device’s wake word is using the Amazon Alexa app on your smartphone or tablet. This method provides a visual and intuitive way to navigate the settings. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Open the Alexa App: Locate and open the Amazon Alexa app on your iPhone, iPad, or Android device. Ensure your device is connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your Alexa speaker for seamless communication.
2. Access the Menu: Once the app is open, look for the menu icon, represented by three horizontal lines, usually located in the top-left corner of the screen. Tap this icon to expand the app’s main menu.
3. Navigate to Settings: From the expanded menu, find and tap on “Settings.” This will take you to a comprehensive list of Alexa settings and preferences.
4. Enter Device Settings: Within the Settings menu, scroll down until you find “Device Settings” and tap on it. This section allows you to manage settings for individual Alexa-enabled devices linked to your Amazon account.
5. Choose Your Device: You will see a list of your Alexa devices. Select the specific Amazon Echo or Alexa-enabled device for which you want to change the wake word. If you have multiple devices and want them all to use the same new wake word, you’ll need to repeat these steps for each device.
6. Find the Wake Word Option: Scroll down the device settings page until you locate the “Wake Word” option. Tap on “Wake Word” to proceed to the wake word selection screen.
7. Select Your New Wake Word: On the “Wake Word” screen, you’ll see the available options: “Alexa,” “Amazon,” “Echo,” and “Computer.” Tap on your desired wake word to select it. The app will confirm your selection, and the change will be applied to your device within a few moments.
Changing the Wake Word Directly Through Your Alexa Speaker
For a quicker, voice-activated approach, you can also change the wake word directly through your Amazon speaker. This method is convenient if you’re near your device and prefer a hands-free approach.
Simply say, “Alexa, change wake word.” Your device will respond and guide you through the available wake word options. Follow the verbal prompts to select “Amazon,” “Echo,” or “Computer” as your new wake word. This method is a fast alternative to using the app, perfect for making a quick change.
Considerations When Choosing a New Wake Word
While the available wake word options are limited, consider these points when making your choice:
- Household Names: Avoid wake words that sound similar to names commonly used by people in your household to prevent accidental activations.
- Common Words: Similarly, avoid choosing “Computer” if it’s a word frequently used in your daily conversations, as this might also lead to unintended activations.
- Pronunciation: Choose a wake word that is easy for everyone in your household to pronounce clearly for reliable device activation.
- Personal Preference: Ultimately, the best wake word is the one that you find most convenient and natural to use. Experiment with the different options to see which one feels right for you.
Conclusion
While you can’t change Alexa’s name to a completely custom word, understanding that you can change the wake word offers valuable customization. Choosing between “Alexa,” “Amazon,” “Echo,” and “Computer” allows you to personalize your smart home experience and potentially reduce accidental activations. Whether you use the Alexa app or voice commands, changing the wake word is a simple process that can make interacting with your Alexa devices even more seamless and tailored to your needs.
