Alexa is Amazon’s voice assistant, integrated into a wide range of devices like Echo speakers, Fire TVs, and more. Many users enjoy the convenience Alexa offers, but some wonder whether it’s possible to change the wake word—that is, the name you say to activate the device—from “Alexa” to something else.
This article explores the possibilities, limitations, and alternatives related to changing the wake word on Alexa-enabled devices. It will provide detailed guidance, highlight the supported wake words, and discuss what you can do if you prefer a different name.
What Is the Alexa Wake Word?
The wake word is the specific word or phrase that a voice assistant listens for before it starts processing your commands. For Amazon Alexa devices, the default wake word is “Alexa”.
This means the device stays in standby mode until it hears the wake word, which helps prevent accidental activations.
Changing the wake word helps personalize your experience, avoid confusion with other devices or people, and sometimes improve privacy by choosing something less common or more distinctive.
Can You Change the Alexa Wake Word?
Yes, but with some limitations. Amazon allows users to select from a small number of predefined wake words for their Alexa devices.
You cannot create a completely custom wake word, but you can choose an alternative from the options provided by Amazon.
“At this time, Alexa devices support a limited set of wake words for activation.” — Amazon Help Center
Supported Wake Words for Alexa Devices
Currently, Amazon offers a few different wake words for Alexa-enabled devices. The available options vary slightly depending on the device and region, but generally include:
| Wake Word | Description | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| Alexa | The default and most widely used wake word. | All Alexa devices |
| Echo | An alternative wake word referencing Amazon’s Echo devices. | All Alexa devices |
| Amazon | Uses the company’s name as the wake word. | Most Alexa devices |
| Computer | A unique, sci-fi inspired wake word option. | Some Alexa devices, primarily in English-speaking regions |
If you want to change the wake word, you are limited to these choices. Custom wake words or nicknames are currently not supported.
How to Change the Wake Word on Alexa
Changing the wake word on your Alexa device is a straightforward process. You can do this via the Alexa app on your smartphone or tablet, or directly on some Echo devices with screens.
Step-by-Step Guide Using the Alexa App
- Open the Alexa app on your iOS or Android device.
- Tap the Devices icon at the bottom.
- Select Echo & Alexa to view your devices.
- Choose the device for which you want to change the wake word.
- Scroll down and tap Wake Word.
- From the list, select your preferred wake word (Alexa, Echo, Amazon, or Computer).
- Confirm the change and wait a few moments while the device updates.
Changing Wake Word Using the Device Settings
For devices with screens, like the Echo Show, you can also:
- Swipe down from the top of the screen and tap Settings.
- Navigate to Device Options or Device Settings.
- Tap Wake Word.
- Select the desired wake word from the list.
After changing the wake word, your device will begin listening for the new term. You do not need to restart the device.
Can You Use a Custom Wake Word?
Unfortunately, as of now, Amazon does not support custom wake words beyond the predefined ones listed above. This limitation is mainly due to the complex technology required to reliably detect a wake word without false activations.
Allowing custom wake words would require Amazon to train their speech recognition models on every possible user-defined term, which is not practical. Additionally, it could impact the device’s accuracy and responsiveness.
Note: Some third-party voice assistants and smart home hubs allow custom wake words, but Alexa remains restricted to its official options.
Why Does Amazon Limit Wake Words?
There are several reasons why Amazon restricts the wake words you can use:
- Accuracy: Alexa’s voice recognition system is optimized for a specific set of wake words to minimize errors.
- Security: Limiting wake words helps reduce the chance of accidental activations or misunderstandings.
- Brand consistency: The wake words reflect Amazon’s branding and create a consistent user experience.
- Technical constraints: Training models for every possible custom wake word would require significant resources.
Alternatives if You Want a Different Name
If you want a voice assistant with a completely customizable wake word, or if you want to avoid the Alexa name, here are some alternatives and workarounds to consider.
Use Other Alexa Wake Words
As mentioned, you can choose from “Echo,” “Amazon,” or “Computer.” These are the only officially supported alternatives. For example, saying “Echo, what’s the weather?” instead of “Alexa” might feel more natural to some users.
Use a Different Voice Assistant
If customization is a priority, you might consider other platforms like:
| Assistant | Custom Wake Word Support | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Google Assistant | No | Uses fixed wake words like “Hey Google” or “Ok Google” |
| Siri (Apple) | No | Wake word is fixed as “Hey Siri” |
| Mycroft AI | Yes | Open-source assistant that allows custom wake words |
| Snips (Acquired by Sonos) | Yes | Had custom wake word support; now part of Sonos |
Use Voice Shortcuts or Routines
While you cannot change the wake word itself, you can create routines in the Alexa app that respond to custom phrases after the wake word. For example, you might say:
“Alexa, start movie time”
This triggers a sequence of actions without needing to change the name “Alexa.” It’s a way to personalize your interaction within the existing framework.
Use a Bluetooth or Smart Hub with Custom Wake Word
Some third-party devices or hubs might support custom wake words and then forward commands to Alexa or other assistants. These setups tend to be more complex and less common but might suit advanced users.
Tips for Reducing Confusion with the Wake Word
Even if you cannot select a fully custom wake word, there are ways to make Alexa’s activation less intrusive or confusing:
- Choose an alternative wake word: If “Alexa” is commonly said in your home, try switching to “Echo” or “Computer.”
- Adjust the wake word sensitivity: In some devices, you can reduce how sensitive Alexa is to the wake word to avoid accidental triggers.
- Mute the microphone: When you don’t want Alexa to listen, press the mute button on your device.
- Place devices strategically: Position Alexa devices away from areas where the wake word might be spoken unintentionally.
How to Change Wake Word Sensitivity
While not exactly changing the wake word, adjusting the sensitivity can help Alexa better recognize or ignore the wake word.
- Open the Alexa app.
- Go to Devices > Echo & Alexa > select your device.
- Tap Wake Word Sensitivity (if available).
- Adjust the slider to make Alexa more or less sensitive.
Note: Not all devices support this feature.
Summary: What You Need to Know
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Can you change “Alexa” to any custom name? | No, only a limited set of predefined wake words are allowed. |
| What are the supported wake words? | Alexa, Echo, Amazon, Computer. |
| How to change the wake word? | Change it via Alexa app or device settings under “Wake Word.” |
| Why no custom wake words? | Due to technical constraints, accuracy, and branding reasons. |
| Alternatives for custom wake words? | Use other assistants like Mycroft AI or third-party solutions. |
Final Thoughts
While the inability to fully customize the wake word may be disappointing for some, the options Amazon provides allow users some flexibility. Choosing between “Alexa,” “Echo,” “Amazon,” or “Computer” can help tailor the experience to your preferences and household needs.
For users seeking full customization, exploring alternative voice assistants or open-source platforms may be the best path forward. Meanwhile, Amazon continues to improve Alexa’s capabilities and might expand wake word options in the future.
Understanding these limitations and options can help you better utilize your Alexa device and enjoy a more personalized smart home experience.
