7 Amazon Echo Common Questions and Issues (Solved!)

The Amazon Echo is definitely one of the most talked about gadgets out there but it is not all that it seems to be on paper. Even if you want to use it as a baby monitor, you’ll be surprised to learn that it’s possible.

Just like any other device, problems and issues are a part of the deal with the Amazon Echo, but you should not worry before reading this article as you may find a solution that works for you.

Why can’t I register Amazon Echo?

This error usually appears when you connect your Echo to a Dual Band/Mesh network. Let’s assume you have two or more dual-band/mesh routers in your home, meaning they broadcast both a 2.4G and a 5G signal.

Earlier generations of the Amazon Echo (e.g: 1st gen) are only compatible with a 2.4G connection which means they are not compatible with 5G Wi-Fi. So, here’s what you can do to fix the problem.

1. On your phone, long-press the Wi-Fi icon and go to the network settings.
2. Tap on “Forget Network” on all your Mesh wi-fi network connections and leave only a 2.4G connection.
3. Put the Gen 1 Amazon Echo into “Setup Mode” and then open the Alexa app on the phone.
4. At this point, you may still experience trouble. Wait for a while, and then manually switch the Echo to Amazon-XXXX.
5. After it says “Connected”, finish the setup from there.

Why is my Amazon Echo not able to use Spotify?

This issue started after an update on Alexa back in August 2022. Alexa’s commands list is fairly limited, and if you use the command “Alexa, play my favorite music” or “Alexa, play One Republic”, etc, then Spotify never plays the requested song.

If you have Spotify set as default in the Alexa app, you should stick to the most simple command “Alexa, play *song name*” and Alexa will pay for the requested music.

Can Amazon Echo be used as a Bluetooth speaker?

You may use your Amazon Echo device as a Bluetooth speaker in a variety of ways. Below are two methods you can make that happen!

Method 1#: Pairing

Bluetooth is used to pair your smartphone or another device to your Echo speaker. All you have to do is make sure your smartphone and Echo speaker are paired.

You can do this by going to your phone’s Bluetooth settings and selecting your Echo speaker. Here’s how.

1. Put your Bluetooth device in pairing mode.
2. Open the Alexa app.
3. Select Devices.
4. Select Echo & Alexa.
5. Select your device.
6. Select Bluetooth Devices, and then Pair A New Device.

Method 2#: 3.0mm Audio Cable

For individuals who wish to link their device to Alexa, there is a better approach. A 3.0mm audio cable is required to do so. The package your Echo comes in normally contains this cable.

A little adaptor for the power socket is also required. These supplies are available at practically all hardware stores.

Can Amazon Echo be used as a baby monitor?

It is indeed possible. Using two Amazon Echo (or Show, Dot, Tap, or Spot) devices or an Echo device and your phone as a baby monitor is possible with Alexa’s Calling function.

All you need is an Echo device in the baby’s room, an Echo device or another phone with the Alexa app installed, and Alexa Calling turned on. In case you lose connectivity, enabling Drop-In is an important advantage.

Here’s how you can go about it.

1. The baby’s room device should have the volume all the way down. When the baby is sleeping, this will prevent you from being heard, and if you need to reconnect to Drop In, it won’t sound like a loud bell when you do so.
2. Call or Drop In your other Alexa device from the device in the baby’s room. This can be a different Echo unit or even your phone.
3. When your other device rings, take the call while in the other room.
4. Keep the line open while the baby is sleeping, and when the baby wakes up, just disconnect.
5. You may use an Echo Spot or Echo Show in the same way as a video baby monitor if you chance to own one.

Can Amazon Echo work without Wi-Fi?

Because Alexa is not intended to function without the internet, the Amazon Echo cannot be used totally offline. She won’t respond to commands because the entire voice recognition procedure is done in the Cloud.

There are two operations, nevertheless, that can be performed without an internet connection.

Alarms still work, but they are unreliable because they are not immediately sent to the device. Bluetooth audio also functions, but Alexa must first be configured online.

If you only want a Bluetooth speaker and don’t have Wi-Fi, you’d be better off buying a Bluetooth speaker.

If you like, you can also get Alexa by purchasing one of its mobile variants (like the Echo Tap, which is no longer available) that can use your smartphone as its internet.

Is Amazon Echo battery-powered?

There is no internal battery in the Amazon Echo. Actually, the only device with a rechargeable battery is the Echo Tap.

In order to use Echo (Gen 1 or 2), you often need to maintain it always plugged into a power outlet. If you unplug Echo from its power supply, it will switch off.

On the other hand, the Amazon Echo Dot may function without being plugged into a power source if you have an Amazon Echo Dot Smart Battery Case, which transforms the gadget into a mobile version of itself.

Wherever you travel, this accessory will enable it to function for roughly 8 hours at a reduced volume.

Amazon Echo is not loud enough. Can I fix it?

This issue could be the outcome of two different things. A difference between Alexa’s and your device’s volume values or excessive concentration of dust on the speaker.

Here’s how you can fix either of these issues.

Fix 1#: Maximize Volume

Alexa adjusts the volume from 0 to 10. However, if Alexa’s voice sounds louder than music, it means you’re not making the most of your Amazon Echo device. This is pretty easy to fix.

Press the + volume symbol on the speaker until the volume reaches its maximum.
Use “Alexa, Volume Up” or “Alexa, Volume 10” to increase the volume.

When you turn up Alexa’s volume to its highest setting, take note that the sound may become distorted. Setting a maximum Alexa volume of about 7 may give you the desired result. Simply play around with different values.

Just like the Apple HomePod mentioned in a previous article, the Amazon Echo doesn’t have a cooling system

Fix 2#: Dust Concentration

Excessive dust concentration on the speaker’s surface could also result in a muzzled-up sound. It is an extreme situation but it is not rare in dusty environments. If you use your Echo in your workshop, for instance, dust may gather on a thick layer around the device.

To avoid that, make sure you frequently clean up your Echo’s surface with a duster or a pressurized air can for better results.

Final Thoughts

For the vast majority of people, the Amazon Echo is great. For others, it may be frustrating or even useless.

The Echo’s ability to improve depends on how you integrate it into your life. For example, if you intend to use it offline, its usefulness will be limited.

On the other hand, if you are able to take advantage of Alexa’s numerous skills and use the device properly based on what your needs are, then it can serve as one of the most useful devices in your home.