In this article, we will talk about everything you need to know about why Alexa is red and how you can fix this issue.
Overview of Alexa
Alexa is a virtual voice assistant that is a readymade feature on Amazon’s best-selling and most popular Echo devices. The most impressive aspect of Alexa is that it can listen to the owner’s orders and answer instantly.
Alexa utilizes artificial intelligence technology to make our digital lives better. It has many in-built skills that can be triggered via voice commands. Right from ordering food to turning on the light, Alexa can help you with everything.
Typically, errors in Echo speakers are displayed in red lights. This means that when you notice red light around the ring of the speaker, you are getting something from the device.
The purpose of the Alexa red ring is that something is wrong, and the device requires your immediate attention. However, you do not have to worry.
What Does the Different Color Rings on Echo Devices Signify?
Before we dig deeper into the Alexa red ring issue, you first need to understand what the different colored light indications mean. The light rings that appear on top of the Echo devices are an appealing and amazing in-built feature.
Almost every Echo speaker in the market today has a light ring on the top. The only exceptions are the latest Echo and Echo Dot speakers. These speakers have a light ring located at the bottom. While the location is different, the visibility remains the same.
On the other hand, the Echo Show Smart Display devices will have a similar light bar on the bottom of the screen.
Besides, Alexa won’t connect to Wi-Fi? Don’t worry, here are some effective fixes to resolve this issue easily for you and know how to connect Alexa to Wi-Fi again.
Now, Let Us Learn More About the Colors.
The most common color is blue. When you give a command to Alexa, you will see a blue ring that starts spinning after a few seconds.
Whenever you get any recommendations from Alexa, you will see many other different colors, each one of them with a different meaning.
For instance, the cyan spotlight on the blue ring signifies that Alexa has heard your voice commands and your request is being processed.
The purple color is an indication that the Echo device is currently in a Do Not Disturb mode. This same color also shows whether there are any Wi-Fi connectivity issues when you are configuring the device for the first time.
A gradual yellow burst after a few seconds means that Alexa has a notification or message for you. It can also mean you have missed a reminder. In these cases, you can make use of simple voice commands to listen to what you have missed.
If the Echo is blinking green, it means that you are receiving a call. Or it can also mean that you are currently attending a call.
The orange ring on the device means that the Echo speaker is attempting to connect to the internet or is in setup mode.
What Does the Alexa Red Ring Signify?
Now, there are several reasons why Alexa is red. In most cases, it means that your Echo speaker is unable to hear your voice commands. Alexa will not respond to your commands until you switch back on the microphone. The red light also appears if you have silenced your microphone.
Another reason why you are seeing the Alexa red ring is that the connection of your camera is not functioning the way it should. In such cases, you will receive a message, something like ‘Sorry, I am having trouble understanding you right now.’
Also, if you wonder how to put Echo Dot in setup mode, let’s show you a detailed guide and everything related to the configurations of the Echo Dot.
How Can You Fix the Alexa Red Ring Error?
Before we get started with the solutions, the first thing you need to understand is why Alexa is red. To do so, check your internet connection. If you fix your internet connection, it will solve all your problems.
However, if the problem still persists, you can try out the fixes that we have mentioned below:
1. Enable the Microphone
As we mentioned before, the reason why Alexa is Red is that the Echo Dot cannot hear your voice commands. By default, you cannot enable or disable the Echo microphone. You can only mute it.
All you need to do is tap once on the Mute button and wait until the red lights are off. When you no longer see the red light, it means the problem has been fixed. If not, there are some other fixes that you can try.
2. Restart the Echo
In case your device cannot connect to the internet, is not responding, or is offline, restarting the device is the simplest solution. This method is easy and quick and will not have any impact on the settings of the device.
Here are the steps to restart your Echo speaker:
- First, disconnect the speaker from the power source.
- Next, you need to wait for a few seconds.
- Plug the Echo Dot back into the power source.
- Now, you simply need to wait for your Echo to power back on.
Once your device has restarted successfully, you should not see the Alexa red ring. However, if the red ring is still there, you can try the next solution.
Also read: Alexa Not Responding? Try These Fixes Now!
3. Restart Your Wi-Fi Network
At times, the reason you see the Alexa red ring might not be the Echo’s fault at all. If you are not connected to the internet or your network is slow or down, you will see the Alexa red ring.
Before you can try your hands on this solution, you need to check whether your internet connection is working. To do this, check your mobile or computer to see whether your Wi-Fi network is working. If you are unable to access the internet, you will have to restart your Wi-Fi router.
Before you commence disconnecting the internet, ensure no one else is using it. Now, follow the steps mentioned below to disconnect your internet connection:
- You first need to unplug the power cables of the router and modem.
- Once done, you simply need to wait for a few seconds.
- Plug in the router and modem back.
- Wait for a few minutes for the router and modem to boot up.
Once done, you can check whether the Alexa red ring issue has been solved or not. If not, we have a couple of more solutions for you.
4. Factory Reset Your Device
Now, this is a solution that can fix any problem you are facing with the Echo devices. It is advised that you use this option as the last-ditch option. However, if none of the fixes mentioned above work, then this is the only solution that will work.
One good thing about Echo’s factory reset is that you will not lose any account-level information and settings with this. It is also advised that you record all your information and settings that you wish to recreate after the factory reset.
Let us look into how you can reset your Alexa device:
- Tap on the Alexa mobile application.
- Next, click on Devices and then on Echo and Alexa.
- Among the list of available devices, tap on the Echo speaker that shows the red ring.
- Here, you need to tap on either Deregister or Factory Reset from the list.
- Confirm the Warning pop-up window and tap on Ok.
- Once done, you need to set up your Echo device and connect it to your Wi-Fi.
5. Get in Touch with Customer Care Support
All the points that we have discussed above are DIY methods of fixing the Alexa red ring problem. However, it is just as likely that these methods will not work. In such cases, there is only one route available – getting in touch with the customer support agents.
Visit the Alexa mobile application and tap on the More option. Here, select the Help and Feedback option. All you need to do is click on the Tap option, and customer service will get in touch with you immediately.
All you need to do now is explain the problem to the customer care agent. He/she will help you through it. Additionally, these agents also have access to device diagnostic methods to help you fix this issue.
Also read: Alexa Won’t Play Music? – 6 Solutions Here!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can the Alexa red ring be fixed without contacting support?
A1: Yes, in most cases, the red ring issue can be resolved by following the troubleshooting steps mentioned in this article. However, if the problem persists, it is advisable to seek assistance from Amazon support.
Q2: Will resetting my Alexa device fix the red ring problem?
A2: Resetting your Alexa device should be considered as a last resort, as it erases all device settings and configurations. Try the troubleshooting steps mentioned earlier before opting for a reset.
Q3: What should I do if my Alexa device shows a different color ring?
A3: Different colored rings on your Alexa device indicate various states or notifications. Refer to the Alexa user manual or the Amazon support website for a comprehensive guide on interpreting ring colors.
Q4: How often should I update the Alexa app?
A4: It is recommended to regularly check for updates and install them as they become available. This ensures that your Alexa app remains compatible with the latest features and resolves any potential bugs or issues.
Q5: Can a faulty power outlet cause the red ring error?
A5: Yes, a faulty power outlet can contribute to the red ring error. Ensure that the power outlet is functioning correctly and provides a stable power supply to your Alexa device.
Final Thoughts
If you are wondering why Alexa is red, you need not worry. This issue is very common among Echo devices. With the help of the methods that we have mentioned above, you should be able to fix the Alexa red ring problem.
If you have any more questions regarding the same, you can let us know in the comment section.
