Imagine calling out 'Alexander!' rather than 'Alexa!' to make your smart home devices spring to life. While that level of customization isn't here yet, altering your Amazon Echo's wake word can add a personal touch—or just avoid confusion if someone in your household shares a name with Amazon's eponymous assistant.
The Echo's default wake word is 'Alexa', but Amazon does grant the option to change it. Currently, your alternative choices include 'Amazon', 'Echo', and 'Computer'. While the selection is limited, the process to make the change is as straightforward as it is quick.
Altering the wake word can be done via the Alexa app, which is available on both Android and iOS platforms. Once you've opened the app, navigate to the Devices tab, select your Echo device, and then tap 'Wake Word'. A list of the available wake words will appear, from which you can select your preference.
There's also the voice-command option, where you can ask Alexa to change its wake word directly. Although this method is hands-free, it's worth noting that it only allows switching between 'Alexa' and one other wake word, cycling through the available options.
Is changing the wake word just a novelty, or does it serve a practical purpose? For households with an Alexa or an Alex, altering the wake word avoids triggering the device every time someone calls a family member. It's also a fundamental step in creating a unique and personalized user experience.
Bear in mind, the wake word change takes effect immediately across all your connected Echo devices. This ensures a consistent experience in multi-Echo homes, but it also means all users must adapt to the new command.
Finally, while you can name your Echo devices differently within the Alexa app to streamline commands for smart home controls, the wake word remains a global setting across each device—so choose wisely.
As we continue to interact with AI more naturally, we may see a future where wake words can be personalized to anything we like. Until then, the available options provide a small yet delightful means to customize our interaction with technology.
Changing your Alexa wake word isn't just for fun—it's a practical way to prevent unintended activations and personalize your user experience. While choices are currently limited, this minor adjustment goes a long way in making your smart home feel more uniquely yours.
