Change Your Alexa Wake Word on Any Device

You can change what word wakes up your Alexa device — the default is "Alexa," but you can switch to "Amazon," "Echo," or "Computer" instead. The process takes less than a minute and works the same way on every Alexa device: phone app, web browser, or the device itself. You do not need to restart anything or contact Amazon support.

The wake word change applies only to that one device. If you have multiple Alexa devices in your home, you change each one separately. Once you pick a new wake word, Alexa stops responding to the old one when ready.

Key Takeaways

  • Your four wake word options are Alexa, Amazon, Echo, and Computer — you cannot create a custom wake word.
  • The fastest method is the Alexa app on your phone: tap the device, go to Settings, select Wake Word, and pick a new one.
  • You can also change it in a web browser at alexa.amazon.com by selecting your device and editing the wake word setting.
  • The change takes effect when ready, and Alexa will no longer respond to the old wake word.

Change the Wake Word Using the Alexa App

Open the Alexa app on your phone and tap the Devices icon at the bottom right. Select the Alexa device you want to change. Tap the Settings gear icon in the top right corner of that device's page.

Scroll down and tap Wake Word. You will see four options: Alexa, Amazon, Echo, and Computer. Tap the one you want to use. The app will confirm the change, and your device is done — no restart needed.

If you have a Fire tablet, the Alexa app layout is slightly different but the path is the same: Devices > your device > Settings > Wake Word.

Change the Wake Word in a Web Browser

Go to alexa.amazon.com in any web browser and sign in with your Amazon account. Click Devices in the left menu, then select the Alexa device you want to change.

Under the device name, click Edit. Scroll to Wake Word and select a new one from the dropdown. Click Save. The change is live when ready.

This method works on any computer or tablet. You do not need the Alexa app installed.

Change the Wake Word Directly on the Device

On most Alexa speakers and displays, you can change the wake word without using an app or browser. Press and hold the Action button (usually on top of the device) until the light ring turns orange. Say "Change wake word" or "Settings."

Alexa will ask you which wake word you want. Say one of the four options: Alexa, Amazon, Echo, or Computer. Alexa will confirm the change and return to normal operation.

On Echo Show devices, you can also go to Settings > Device Settings > Wake Word and tap your choice. The exact menu path varies slightly by model, but Wake Word is always under Device Settings.

What to Do If the Change Does Not Work

If your device still responds to the old wake word after you change it, restart the device by unplugging it for 30 seconds and plugging it back in. After it reconnects to Wi-Fi and shows a blue light ring, test the new wake word.

If the app shows an error when you try to save, check that you are signed into the Alexa app with the same Amazon account that owns the device. Sign out and sign back in if you are unsure. Then try changing the wake word again.

If you cannot see the Wake Word option in Settings, your device model may not support wake word changes. Most Echo speakers, Echo Dots, Echo Shows, and Fire tablets do support it, but some older or budget models do not.

Why You Might Want to Change Your Wake Word

The most common reason is a name collision — if someone in your home is named Alexa, the device will respond every time you say their name. Switching to "Computer" or "Echo" solves this without any confusion.

Some people change the wake word for privacy reasons, preferring a less common word when guests are over. Others straightforward prefer the sound of a different word in their home.

You can always change it back to Alexa or try a different option later. There is no limit to how many times you can switch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a custom wake word instead of the four options?

No. Amazon only offers Alexa, Amazon, Echo, and Computer as wake word choices. You cannot create a custom wake word or use a name that is not on that list.

If I change the wake word on one device, does it change on all my Alexa devices?

No. Each device has its own wake word setting. If you have three Echo devices, you can set one to "Alexa," one to "Echo," and one to "Computer" if you want. You change each one separately.

Will changing the wake word affect routines or voice commands I have set up?

No. Routines and commands work the same way regardless of which wake word you use. You just say the new wake word instead of "Alexa" to start them.

What happens if I forget which wake word I set?

Open the Alexa app or go to alexa.amazon.com and check the device settings. The current wake word is always shown in the Wake Word section. You can also test by saying each of the four options out loud until one works.