Alexa has become famous over the years due to its convenience. However, many users complained that they were startled by Alexa’s sudden noise with a blue light at 3 a.m. We are here to shed light on this mystery. 

Alexa can make a sound early at 3 a.m. due to routine settings, reminders or alarms, alert messages and notifications, misinterpretation of the wake word, low battery issues, or auto-updates. If these aren’t the issues, some general errors have occurred. 

Are you facing the same issue? Then this article is for you. We will provide you with a clear understanding of the reasons behind this mystery and solutions to troubleshoot and manage your Alexa when it acts like this.

Introduction to Alexa and Unusual Noises

Alexa is a voice-controlled virtual assistant by Amazon. 

Alexa will listen to your commands and perform tasks without you having to lift your finger. 

I have been using Alexa for several years, and I cannot tell you how easy my life has been since then. 

She answers all my questions, controls my smart home, reminds me about my meetings and works through the reminders, sets the alarm to wake up early, connects to my favorite services, and helps me stay organized. 

Now, why does Alexa suddenly make unusual noises at 3 a.m.? It can be frustrating, especially for the light sleepers. 

There could be several reasons behind it. 

It could be an alarm or reminder you set, a weather report, an auto-update, or your Amazon parcel shipped. 

It could be because Alexa might have mistakenly heard a word close to her wake word. 

Alexa making a sound at 3 a.m. could be due to the routine volume adjustment settings. 

There are several other reasons besides these. 

Please keep reading to learn about them and ways to solve the issues. 

Understanding Alexa’s Capabilities

Alexa is a voice assistant by Amazon. 

You can make her do tasks by commanding and without lifting your phones. 

Alexa is like software that can power your smartphone, but she uses Skills instead of Apps. 

To control Alexa, buy an Alexa-enabled Amazon device, like the Echo or Echo Dot. 

Configure, manage and personalize Alexa with the Alexa app available in the Google Play Store or Apple Store. 

Download the app, connect the device, control Alexa, and make her yours. 

Alexa has several capacities, and below are some of the common ones:

• Report news and weather forecast 
• Provide sports updates
• Control your smart home, cell phones, and other Alexa-enabled devices 
• Play music and podcasts
• Answer your questions about anything you ask her
• Help you with recipes
• Manage your lists and calendars
• Set up alarms and reminders for your daily routine and remind you about them in time 
• Tell stories and jokes 
• Do math
• Administer games
• Find local and small business information
• Find recipes
• Order dinner, call a cab, and shop online 
• Provide you essential notifications regarding any order

Alexa is all you need to make your life easier. 

Why does Alexa make noises? 

As I said earlier, there could be several reasons why Alexa is making a sound at 3 a.m. 

I have faced this a few times before. Upon research, I found several things are responsible. 

I had problems like past set alarms and reminders, unstable Wi-Fi connections, auto-updates, and notifications and alert messages.

In this section, I will share all the possible reasons, including mine, with the solutions. So, let’s begin. 

Scheduled Events and Alarms

One common reason Alexa makes a sound at 3 a.m. is undeleted event reminders and alarms. 

Echo devices allow you to set alarms and reminders for some scheduled events for various needs. 

For example, you might have set an alarm to wake up at 3 a.m. to catch a flight early morning, or you have set a reminder for an early Zoom meeting. 

You might have previously set reminders and alarms but forgot to delete them after the purpose was served. 

The device won’t forget the alarms and reminders if you don’t turn off or delete them. 

These alarms and reminders can pop up and disturb you daily at the set time. 

Troubleshooting: 

You need to delete the old alarms and reminders of events if you do not need them. 

For that: 

1. Go to the Alexa app. 
2. Go to ALARMS AND REMINDERS. 
3. Find the alarm and reminder set for 3 a.m. 
4. Hold it for 5 seconds and delete the alarm and reminder. 
5. Once deleted, your device will no longer make a sound at 3 a.m. 

Volume adjustment routine

Alexa can make a sound in the early morning because of the voice adjustment routine. 

This routine allows you to change the alarm sound and regulate the settings. 

Usually, the volume adjustment routines are set at 3 a.m. 

That is why Alexa will chime daily at 3 a.m., which can interrupt your sleep.  

You can change the volume adjustment settings and prevent your device from making the noise every day. 

Troubleshooting: 

Follow the following to adjust the volume settings:

1. Open the Alexa app on your smartphone. 
2. Select the Alexa icon from the right corner. 
3. You will find the ROUTINE tab when you click on it. 
4. Search for the routine set for 3 a.m. 
5. Find the option WHEN DOES IT HAPPEN by scrolling. 
6. Find the routine set to 3 a.m. 
7. Please change it to your desired time, for example, 10 a.m. or 4 p.m. 
8. After this, Alexa will only chime at your desired time, not 3 a.m. 

Misinterpretation of the wake word or Environmental noises

Sometimes, Alexa will hear the background noise and misinterpret it as her wake word. 

A wake word is a phrase or a name for Alexa that wakes her up from sleep, for example, Alexa (default), Echo, Disney, Computer, etc. 

If your Alexa gets activated at 3 a.m. without any reason, it might be because she has misunderstood any background noise as her wake word. 

That is why choosing a unique wake word at a quiet place with no background noises is recommended. 

Troubleshooting: 

To resolve the issue, you need to change the wake word for Alexa and keep a unique name. 

Alexa is the default wake word. 

There are five more wake words to choose from for Alexa:

• Amazon
• Computer
• Echo 
• Disney 
• Ziggy 

For a unique name, you can keep two words, for example, “Echo, Echo.” 

To change the wake word:

1. Open the Alexa app.
2. Go to DEVICES. 
3. Choose ECHO & ALEXA. 
4. Select your device from the list. 
5. Click on the gear icon on the upper right side and open the DEVICE SETTINGS. 
6. Scroll down and select WAKE WORD. 
7. Select the new wake word and click OK to confirm. 

Automatic Updates and Maintenance

A reason that makes Alexa devices convenient is their auto-update feature. 

The device can auto-update applications and operating systems whenever the developer releases one. 

These updates can often make your device make a sound, even at 3 a.m. There is no fixed time for this. 

Though auto-updates are reasonable, it can be annoying if it happens early in the morning or at midnight. 

Troubleshooting: 

The beep for auto-updates happens briefly, then turns off after the update is complete. 

There is no troubleshooting step for this because updates are routine. 

You can keep the volume low or mute your device to stay undisturbed. 

Noise from Notifications and Messages

Alexa devices can be connected to your phone via the Alexa app. 

So, the phone’s text messages, alerts, and notifications received will make your Alexa device make a sound at 3 a.m. 

The user enables Alexa’s notifications. 

If you turn it on, the notifications will be received on the device and beep. 

Unlike your phones, Alexa devices do not vibrate. 

It produces a sound similar to alarms and reminders. 

Alexa will make noises when you receive texts, emails, and calls, notifications about your parcels, offer notifications from apps, and many more. 

It is normal but annoying for people sleeping at 3 a.m. 

As long as your smartphone is paired with the Alexa device, it will make noises every time you receive any notification. 

Troubleshooting: 

To resolve the problem, turn off the notifications from Alexa or mute the device. 

It will keep your device, the Alexa notifications, the weird noises, and random chiming off. 

If you have lowered Alexa’s volume or muted the device, increase the volume and unmute the button again the following day. 

The best option is to turn off the notifications from Alexa:

• Open the Alexa app. 
• Select the MORE tab. 
• Find the NOTIFICATION bar. 
• Select DISABLE and turn off the settings. 

Unwanted Communications 

Alexa can give and receive communications through calls, messages, announcements, and drop-ins. 

These can make Alexa respond with a loud sound at 3 a.m. 

If your Alexa device is making a sound at 3 a.m., there is a chance that someone is trying to contact you. 

Another situation might be that your Alexa is hacked, and someone is trying to use her without your concern. 

Troubleshooting: 

You can keep Alexa mute or set the setting DO NOT DISTURB to stop this. 

A more permanent solution would be to cut off the unwanted interactions:

1. Open the Alexa app and go to DEVICES. 
2. Go to ECHO & ALEXA and choose your device name.
3. Click on the icon in the upper right corner for DEVICE SETTINGS. 
4. Under the GENERAL category, select COMMUNICATION. 
5. Turn off the unwanted communication settings for the device. 

Disabling the notifications will only apply to the specific device you change the settings for. 

The other units of your Alexa households will still be open for communication. 

Drop-ins are restricted for users within the same Amazon household. 

You can keep your device off for safety concerns or set specific voice profiles so that Alexa replies to only those profiles. 

Interaction with other devices

Suppose you have more than one Echo device nearby. 

In that case, the Alexa devices can make noises at the wrong times, for example, at 3 a.m. 

When multiple Alexa devices are nearby, they could be trying to communicate with each other, responding to each other’s commands or notifications. 

Troubleshooting: 

Try checking the settings on all the devices. 

Turn down the volume, mute, or unplug them at night. 

It will stop the devices from responding to each other’s notifications and commands. 

Low battery problems 

Some Alexa devices operate on batteries, while others need a power source. You have to connect them to the electrical outlet. 

These battery-powered devices will need to be charged from time to time. Alexa will start making noises if you do not charge them in time. 

Alexa operates 24*7, and the battery level will keep getting low with time. 

It can happen at any time of the day, be it 7 p.m. or 3 a.m. So, if your device is making noises, check the battery and put it on charge. 

Troubleshooting: 

If you hear the sound, you must immediately charge your Alexa device. 

Or, you can keep the volume off, mute the device, and put it on charge later in the day. 

To prevent this, you must put the device on charge before going to bed for an undisturbed sleep. 

User Error and Unintentional Activation

Some general errors can cause your Alexa device to make noises early at 3 a.m. 

A glitch might occur for which the device is chiming. 

The reason could be that the device is damaged, some changes are needed in the Alexa app, or clear the cache and data.

Another problem is the Bluetooth error. 

It occurs when you try linking your smartphone with your Alexa device via Bluetooth. 

There is a chance that your Alexa device is trying to pair with other Bluetooth electronics because you might have left the Bluetooth option active earlier. 

The device will try to pair up, and if there is a problem, it will make a sound to notify you. 

It can happen anytime, be it midnight or 3 a.m. 

Troubleshooting: 

Refresh your Alexa app or delete and reinstall it to solve the glitch issue. 

It will reset Alexa to the original settings and solve the issue. 

You can also clear the cache and data for the Alexa app from the App Management option. 

If you suspect the Alexa device is the culprit of the glitches, restart the device. 

As for the Bluetooth error, the best way to resolve it is to command Alexa to turn off the Bluetooth pairing. 

You can also clean Alexa’s saved Bluetooth devices. 

The Bluetooth feature can automatically reconnect to devices that are previously paired. 

If the Bluetooth of both devices is active, Alexa will remind you about the pair by making noises.

So, the FORGET DEVICE option can prevent the connections in the future. 

Here are the steps to remove the pairing: 

1. Open your Alexa app and select DEVICES. 
2. Choose ECHO & ALEXA, and pick the device you want to disconnect. 
3. Select BLUETOOTH DEVICES and tap on FORGET DEVICE. 
4. Confirm your decision, and you are done. 

Instead, the best way is to check the settings regularly and keep the Bluetooth off. 

Failed internet connection 

Alexa will require a good and stable Wi-Fi or internet connection to function, play videos, music, and podcasts online, and reply via voice commands. 

Without a stable connection, these won’t be possible. 

If the Wi-Fi goes stable or down, your Alexa device will make a sound to notify you about the issue. 

It will happen anytime, even at 3 a.m. 

Troubleshooting: 

There is very little you can do at a time like 3 a.m. 

The device beeping during a low internet connection is the device’s way of informing you about the issue. 

You can turn off the volume or mute the device to remain undisturbed.

Or, you can keep your device off at night and turn it on in the morning.

Brief mode is on

Besides the wake word that wakes the device by misinterpretation, another mode makes the device respond to some sounds. 

The model is called the Brief Mode. 

Your Alexa device will respond to random noises and ambient sounds here. 

For this mode, your Alexa device will try to tell you that it is activated and up for any task. 

Troubleshooting: 

When you are sleeping, and the device beeps at 3 a.m., it can be frustrating. 

Any random noise can trigger the device and make a loud noise. 

To troubleshoot this, you need to turn off the mode:

1. Go to MORE and then SETTINGS. 
2. Select VOICE RESPONSES. 
3. Toggle the BRIEF MODE to off in the menu. 
4. The Amazon device will now stop making chiming at random noises. 

Defective unit with hardware or software issues 

Sometimes, you won’t have any of the above issues. 

The problem might be with your device, a defective device. 

The hardware won’t work in a defective device, or the software will constantly glitch. 

As a result, you constantly receive unwanted sounds at random times, for example, at 3 a.m.  

If you have exhausted all the above troubleshooting steps, a defective product is the only thing left. 

In this case, there is no troubleshooting except to replace the device and buy a new one or repair it by consulting the Amazon service center. 

Privacy Concerns and Security Measures

• If you suspect that your Alexa is hacked or someone is trying to use Alexa for which it is making noises at 3 a.m., follow the following security measures:
• Check the device activity logs and browsing history to understand the reason behind the sudden sound at 3 a.m. 
• Keep your microphone disabled at night. No one, even the owner, can access the device through voice commands.
• Set specific profiles. Alexa will reply only to those voices. 
• Keep a unique wake word so no one can guess and use your device. 
• Check the permissions you have provided for any third-party skills. If you feel any suspicious, turn off the permission. 
• Keep Alexa updated. Sometimes, developers provide new updates and firmware with extra security features. 
• Enable two-factor authentication. 
• Keep your device in a location where no one can tamper with it.  

Seeking Customer Support

If you cannot determine why Alexa is making noise at 3 a.m., you can directly ask Alexa. 

If you get a response from her, you are lucky to find the exact reason and solve it. 

If you do not get any response or a wrong reply, contact Amazon Echo device customer support. 

You can contact them through phone calls, live chat, or emails. 

Explain your problem and see what suggestions they provide you. 

Follow their instructions and solve the issue. 

Or, you can take the device from where you have bought it. 

The staff can help you. 

If the problem is hardware-related, the staff will repair it or give you a new one. 

You can get it for free if you still have a warranty period. 

Final thoughts

It can be very annoying when you are sleeping peacefully, but Alexa suddenly makes noises at 3 a.m. If your Alexa makes noises at 3 a.m., common reasons could be past-set alarms and reminders, volume adjustment routine, misinterpretation of the wake word, Bluetooth errors, notifications, auto-updates, low battery, or failed internet connections. 

Any of the above reasons can cause the Alexa device to make noise at 3 a.m. Most of them can be easily troubleshooted. Inspect the problems, troubleshoot them, and rule them out individually. 

Problems related to hardware will require repair and replacement. You can also seek help from the Amazon support team. 

Reference: Amazon Alexa Device Wikipedia

Using Alexa is very convenient. But do you want to use Alexa as a Bluetooth speaker without any Wi-Fi connection? Do not worry; there are ways to do it, and today’s article talks precisely about this.

To use Alexa as a Bluetooth speaker without Wi-Fi, borrow and use your smartphone’s internet via hotspot or pair the Alexa speaker via Bluetooth with your chosen device, like Android, iPhone, Windows, or iMac. Another old method is to use the AUX connection. 

While you can use Alexa as a Bluetooth speaker without Wi-Fi, you cannot use voice commands without an internet connection. To learn everything in detail, read this article till the end to learn how to use Alexa as a Bluetooth speaker without Wi-Fi. 

Introduction to Alexa as a Bluetooth speaker

Alexa is a voice assistant service by Amazon, compatible with all Amazon Alexa devices. 

Bluetooth is a wireless technology that helps data exchange between electronic devices over short distances. 

It can help you connect Alexa devices with other Bluetooth-enabled devices like smartphones and tablets without any internet connection. 

Alexa devices have an in-built Bluetooth capacity to function as wireless speakers. 

You can stream music or audio from your Bluetooth-enabled devices to the Alexa speakers without Wi-Fi. 

To use Alexa as a Bluetooth speaker without any Wi-Fi connections, you must use a Bluetooth-enabled device like a mobile or tablet and the Alexa device supporting Bluetooth. 

Why Use Alexa as a Bluetooth Speaker Without Wi-Fi? 

I love listening to music on my Alexa device. 

Though my device contains Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, I feel more convenient using the Wi-Fi connection. 

Most of the Alexa devices will need a Wi-Fi connection for functioning.

Most Alexa devices will have Bluetooth built-in. So we can use them as a Bluetooth speaker. 

However, some devices will not have Bluetooth connections. 

Those won’t run without Wi-Fi, especially third-party devices.  

Now the question is, why is Alexa used as a Bluetooth Speaker?

I recently went on a vacation and took my Alexa device with me. 

Unfortunately, the place did not have any Wi-Fi connections.

Since there weren’t any Wi-Fi connections, I could not use Alexa to play music online or use voice commands. 

That’s when I considered connecting my smartphone with the Alexa device and then playing music. 

Using an Alexa device as a Bluetooth speaker without Wi-Fi can be helpful in areas without Wi-Fi. 

Here are some possible reasons why we should use Alexa as a Bluetooth speaker:

• With a Bluetooth speaker, you can play music offline. Even if you have a power outage or your Wi-Fi isn’t working, you can still use Alexa to listen to songs. 
• Alexa devices are versatile. Besides using voice commands, you can use them as a speaker. You can use this versatility for various audio, music, podcasts, audiobooks, or audio playbacks.
• By using Alexa as a Bluetooth speaker, you can connect it to any Bluetooth-enabled device despite the operating system. 
• Alexa devices have better audio quality than the standalone Bluetooth speakers. Using them as a Bluetooth device to listen to audio can enhance your listening experience. 

Requirements and Compatibility

Most Amazon Alexa devices will have Bluetooth. So, you can easily use them as a Bluetooth speaker without Wi-Fi. 

However, some Alexa devices, especially third-party Alexa devices, will not have built-in Bluetooth. 

These devices will not play without a Wi-Fi connection. 

So, you need an Alexa device with Bluetooth and functions without Wi-Fi. 

Remember that you cannot use Alexa voice assistant without a Wi-Fi connection. 

To use voice commands, you will need the internet. 

You also need a compatible source device to connect with Alexa. 

The source device should have a Bluetooth connection so that you can connect it with Alexa via Bluetooth.

While pairing, turn on the Bluetooth of both the devices, the Alexa device and the other device with whom you will pair it. 

Lastly, you should install the Alexa app in the source device, i.e., smartphone or tablet. 

Though you can set up Alexa using a browser, I haven’t used it. 

I feel using the Alexa app is easy and convenient. 

Let’s learn to use Alexa as a Bluetooth speaker without a Wi-Fi connection.

Pairing Alexa with a Bluetooth device to use it without Wi-Fi

Alexa is a convenient voice assistant that comes with all Amazon devices. 

Alexa will listen to your commands and answer all your questions as long as she is connected to the Wi-Fi. 

But sometimes, Alexa will lose the Wi-Fi connection under certain circumstances, like:

• ISP issues
• Weak Wi-Fi signals in far and remote places
• Power outage 

You can use Alexa as a Bluetooth speaker without Wi-Fi by connecting it with a source device having a Bluetooth connection. 

Suppose you do not have any internet connection, even on your phone. 

In that case, pair up the Alexa device with a source device via Bluetooth and then play songs from that source device to the Alexa device. 

Another way is to use the AUX connection. 

The process is old but works. 

Let’s learn how to do these steps.

Setting Up Bluetooth Pairing

First, you need to ensure that the Bluetooth devices are discoverable. 

For this, go to Settings, Bluetooth, and turn it on. 

Based on your device, you may have to select DISCOVERABLE or VISIBLE. 

Do this for the Alexa and the source devices with whom you will connect Alexa. 

You can use voice commands to Alexa by saying. “Alexa, connect Bluetooth.”

The source device can be a smartphone, a laptop, a computer, or a Windows or iMac device. 

Pairing with a Source Device

Nerx, you have put the Alexa device into the pairing mode. 

Command Alexa, “Alexa, pair,” and the device will respond to your commands to connect your Bluetooth device. 

For this voice command, your Alexa will require an internet connection. 

If you do not have any internet connection during pairing, open the Alexa app on your phone, turn on the Bluetooth, and pair via the app:

Open the Alexa app and go to DEVICES. 

• Select ECHO & ALEXA. 
• Choose the device you want to pair. 
• Select BLUETOOTH DEVICES, and PAIR A NEW DEVICE. 

Connect the Bluetooth device to Alexa

Find the available Bluetooth devices on the Bluetooth-enabled source device and select the Alexa device from the list. 

Once you have paired and established the connection, the Alexa device will notify you that you have successfully paired it with your device. 

Playing Audio via Bluetooth

After pairing, test it by playing audio or any music from your smartphone or computer. 

You will see that sound will come out from the Amazon Alexa device.

As long as Alexa is connected to your source device via Bluetooth, you can use the Alexa device as a Bluetooth speaker and listen to audio without Wi-Fi. 

If you want Alexa to stop playing the music, you have to turn off your phone’s Bluetooth or the audio of the source device. 

Even if you turn off the Bluetooth of your source device, Alexa will remember your device name and reconnect whenever you turn on the Bluetooth. 

Using an AUX connection 

Using the AUX method is very old, but it works like magic. 

The 3.5 mm jack input is used to connect your headphones. 

Connect it to the smartphone via the audio cable, and the music will start playing from the headphones. 

Fortunately, the AUX connection will work the same in the Amazon Alexa devices. 

However, all Amazon devices will not have an AUX connection. 

Even if you have an Amazon Alexa device, only a few devices will have the AUX output. 

It means they can send the music to another device, like an extra speaker. 

But it will depend on the Amazon speaker type you own. 

Here is a list of some Amazon devices that have AUX input and output:

Contains both AUX input and AUX output:  

• Amazon Echo 3rd Gen  
• Amazon Echo 4th Gen. 
• Amazon Echo Studio  
• Amazon Echo Plus 2nd Gen

Contains no AUX input but has AUX output:  

• Amazon Echo Dot 4th Gen 
• Amazon Echo Show 5 1st Gen  
• Amazon Echo Show 8 1st Gen 
• Amazon Echo Plus 1st Gen 

If you want to use an AUX connection for your Amazon speaker, you should configure this via the Alexa app. 

Here are the steps to do it:

• Open the Alexa app. 
• Select GENERAL SETTINGS. 
• Go to DEVICES, and select ECHO & ALEXA. 
• Select your device and go to AUX. 
• Select the LINE IN option to listen from a different device, for example, a smartphone. Select the LINE OUT option to send audio to another speaker. 

Using Alexa as a Bluetooth speaker without Wi-Fi via mobile hotspot

Here, you will use the internet but not your home network. 

You can connect Alexa to a mobile hotspot from your smartphone. 

You will borrow your phone’s internet and use it to use Alexa as a Bluetooth speaker without your home Wi-Fi. 

We all will have our phones all the time and with their own internet. 

You will need to make a hotspot and then connect the Alexa device to it. 

Turn on the mobile hotspot

Here are the steps to turn on the hotspot on your smartphone:

• Android phone

1. Click on SETTINGS. 
2. Navigate and turn ON the PORTABLE HOTSPOT.  

• iPhone 

1. Go to SETTINGS. 
2. Select PERSONAL HOTSPOT. 
3. Enable ALLOW OTHERS TO JOIN. 

Note down the network name and password coming with the personal hotspot to avoid losing access.

Connect Alexa to the mobile hotspot

Once you have activated the mobile hotspot, you can connect it to Alexa by the following steps:

1. Open the Alexa app on your smartphone. 
2. Go to DEVICES and select ECHO & ALEXA. 
3. Select your Alexa device’s name. 
4. Go to CHANGE, next to the Wi-Fi network. 
5. Choose from the list of available Wi-Fi networks. 
6. Select USE THIS DEVICE AS A WI-FI HOTSPOT. 
7. Choose START. 
8. Write the network name and password from the hotspot. 
9. Click on CONNECT. 

Once connected, Alexa will confirm the connection after it is successful. 

Managing Multiple Connected Devices

There won’t be a problem if your source device has multiple devices connected. 

However, there is a limit to pairing the number of devices. 

If you already have 5-7 devices connected to the source device, your Alexa device will only connect if you unpair some of them. 

The same goes for the Alexa devices.

You can connect multiple devices with the Alexa device but within a limit. 

To manage multiple devices together, you can switch between the devices. 

Or, you can turn off the Bluetooth, disconnect one device you do not require for now, and connect the one you need now. 

Once you have paired, both the Alexa and the source device will remember the pair and reconnect once you turn on the Bluetooth. 

Using Alexa’s Voice Commands

To use Alexa’s voice commands, you need an internet connection. 

Without this, you cannot use Alexa voice assistant. 

If you have problems with the home’s Wi-Fi network, you can borrow your smartphone’s network via hotspot.

Connect your Alexa device to your phone’s hotspot. 

Then, you can use Alexa’s voice commands. 

Conserving Battery Life

When using Bluetooth, extra battery life might be used. To prevent this, here are some steps you can use:

• Since you won’t use the Wi-Fi, please turn it off. 
• Some devices will have battery mode that helps conserve the Alexa devices’ battery life. Keep them enabled to conserve the battery life of the device. 
• Some Alexa devices will have LED lights that can be turned off if not in use. You can turn them off to conserve the battery. 
• Use power-saving features. It will turn off the inactive devices and save battery. 
• Ensure your devices and the apps are updated to their latest software versions. Manufacturers sometimes provide updates that can improve the battery efficiency. 

Limitations of using Alexa as a Bluetooth speaker without Wi-Fi 

Though there is an option to use Alexa as a Bluetooth speaker without Wi-Fi, there might be limitations. 

Audio quality 

When you use Alexa as a Bluetooth speaker without Wi-Fi, the audio quality may not be as good as when it runs with Wi-Fi. 

The quality will be slightly lower than when it streams directly by Wi-Fi.

The reason is that the Bluetooth connections have a lower bandwidth than the W|i-Fi connections. 

However, there won’t be a huge difference. 

Limited Bluetooth range

The range of the Bluetooth technology is quite limited compared to the Wi-Fi’s range. 

You must keep Alexa devices close to your source device for a stable connection. 

On the contrary, Wi-Fi has a broader range. 

You do not have always to stay close to the Wi-Fi router. 

Alexa’s Bluetooth capabilities 

When you use Alexa as a Bluetooth speaker, you cannot access some features of your Alexa device, which makes Alexa smarter. 

For example, without Wi-Fi, you cannot access the voice commands or stream from the online resources and services. 

Alternatives to using Alexa as a Bluetooth device without Wi-Fi

If you do not want to face the above limitations, you can try other alternatives:

Use third-party apps 

Numerous third-party apps and services help you connect the source device to Alexa without Wi-Fi. 

Some apps provide a workaround for streaming audio through Bluetooth or a local network. 

Use alternative devices

If using Alexa as a Bluetooth device without Wi-Fi does not meet your needs, try exploring other audio playback options. 

Portable Bluetooth speakers or Wi-Fi speakers with built-in Bluetooth functionality can give good audio quality and flexibility. 

Troubleshooting Common Issues

You might face challenges while pairing an Alexa device with the source device via Bluetooth to use the device as a speaker. 

But thankfully, we have troubleshooting steps to overcome these challenges. Let’s learn them one by one:

Resetting Alexa’s Bluetooth settings 

When you have trouble connecting the Bluetooth devices with Alexa devices, try resetting Alexa’s Bluetooth settings. 

Command, “Alexa, clear all Bluetooth devices.” Or, go to the Alexa app on your smartphone, find the Bluetooth settings, and clear the devices.

It will eliminate previously connected devices and allow you to refresh and connect the source device quickly. 

Check the Bluetooth device’s compatibility with Alexa

If the Alexa devices are incompatible with the source device’s Bluetooth, then Alexa will not work as a Bluetooth speaker. 

The recent smartphone devices and tablets should work seamlessly with the Amazon Alexa devices. 

If you have an old traditional phone or a third-party Alexa device that does not have Bluetooth, you cannot use an Alexa device as a Bluetooth speaker. 

Ensure that Alexa is within the range of the Bluetooth devices

When you connect an Alexa device with any source device containing a Bluetooth connection, you must ensure that both Alexa and the source devices are in proximity. 

If they are too far away from each other, you cannot play any audio on the Alexa device. 

It will get disconnected from your device. 

Usually, the Alexa device should stay within 33 feet or 10 meters of the Bluetooth-enabled source device. 

Final thoughts 

You can enjoy music offline from your phone or laptop using Alexa devices as a Bluetooth speaker without Wi-Fi. It can be advantageous when facing issues with the home’s Wi-Fi network or a power outage. Make sure that your Alexa device is set up. To use the device as a Bluetooth speaker without Wi-Fi, you have to connect it to another Bluetooth-enabled device. 

Or, you can use your mobile hotspot. You cannot access voice commands or stream anything online without any internet. Properly manage the other multiple connected devices while using the Alexa device as a Bluetooth device. 

You can turn off the Bluetooth of the devices you won’t use now and keep switching between the devices. Try saving battery life by using battery mode and power-saving features. Keep the Wi-Fi off if you won’t use it, turn off the LED lights if needed, and update the software and firmware. 

Reference: Amazon Alexa

Conversing with Alexa is so comfortable and convenient in today’s world that she has become a part of our family. She responds to every question, does every task you ask for, and even plays music on different music streaming apps. But what if Alexa suddenly stops playing Spotify?

Common reasons for Alexa not playing Spotify could be outdated software, Spotify not being linked with Alexa, you have a weak internet connection, Alexa did not get your command, or you have muted Alexa. To fix these, you need to check each of them and troubleshoot. If nothing works, power cycle or reset your device. 

Are you facing this problem? Then this guide is all you need. By the end of this article, you will learn why Alexa is not playing Spotify and the easy solutions to fix it. 

Understanding the Issue

Spotify has been a famous music streaming app for years. 

While Amazon Alexa uses their own streaming service, Amazon Music, it also connects you to other streaming apps, and Spotify is one of them. 

Since Spotify is integrated with Alexa, enjoying music on Spotify has become more convenient for Alexa device users. 

You only need to command Alexa to play songs from the app. 

One day, as usual, I woke up in the morning, and while enjoying my coffee, I commanded Alexa to play some soothing morning music on Spotify.

But unfortunately, it wasn’t playing anything. 

I tried changing my command variations, but Alexa kept failing to play any song. 

I listen to most music on Spotify daily, especially in the morning. 

It helps me energize to stay active for the rest of the day.

So, it was very frustrating for me to find no response. 

Upon inspection, I found that, somehow, Spotify got unlinked. 

So, I had to link it again with the correct account, and then it started playing songs. 

I had a straightforward issue. 

But there are several such issues which we, the users, do not know.  

Out of curiosity, I researched the problem in detail. 

I discovered several other causes that can make your Alexa stop playing songs on Spotify. Most of them are silly and easy to fix. 

In this section, I will share with you all those reasons and the solutions so that you can enjoy songs on Spotify seamlessly without any interruption: 

Sound on the Alexa device is muted or set at a low volume

If your Alexa is not responding to your command to play Spotify, begin with some basic inspection. 

For example, the device might be muted or set at a low volume. 

If that’s the case, your device will not hear you or respond to any of your commands. 

To deal with the problem, look at the top of the Alexa device, and you will find a microphone mute button. 

The icon will be a microphone with a slash. 

Press that button and try commanding Alexa to play on Spotify. 

If your device still does not respond, press the button again and try commanding. 

If Alexa doesn’t reply, the device isn’t muted in the first place. 

So, press the button again and try commanding. 

Another cause might be that the volume is turned off. 

Some Alexa devices, like the Echo Generation 3, are very loud. 

So, many users turn the volume low. 

If you have the same device, try turning up your device’s volume. 

If Alexa responds, your problem is fixed. 

Command her to play music on Spotify and enjoy. 

Conflicting names for Alexa devices 

If you have more than one speaker or smart home group with similar names, Alexa can get confused and won’t respond when you ask her to play on Spotify. 

In that case, you must put a unique name for the devices or groups to avoid conflict. 

Open the Alexa app from your smartphone and check under DEVICES whether the naming convention is correct. 

If you need to put unique names, open your Echo device’s name and rename it. 

You can set names for multiple speakers via the Alexa app:

1. Open the app and tap on DEVICES. Here, you will find the names of your device or group.  
2. Tap on the device or group name you want to rename. 
3. Press SETTINGS or the EDIT button at the top and edit the name. 
4. Complete the process by following the on-screen prompts. 
5. When you say, “Play music in the <Smart Home Group name>, Alexa will play music on the speaker. 

Playlist name issue 

Sometimes, Alexa cannot follow up on the playlist name you have asked her to play the songs from. 

In that case, try checking the playlist name and also change it if needed. 

Avoid punctuations, complicated names, or acronyms in the playlist name. It should be a simple and easy one for Alexa to catch. 

Some people use the same names and put numbers beside them. 

Avoid this, too. 

To check and rename the playlist:

1. Open the Spotify app, and tap on the YOUR LIBRARY tab. 
2. Tap on your playlist. 
3. Click on the 3-dot icon and then select EDIT PLAYLIST. 
4. Tap on the existing name and provide a simple and easy-to-understand name.

Network Connectivity

Alexa devices will work on internet connections. 

If your Alexa is not responding, you might be facing network issues.

Alexa typically tells you if it isn’t connected to the internet. 

There will be a red ring light if you have an Echo Dot 3 or beyond. 

If you see this, check for the network connections.

If they work, open your Alexa app on your smartphone and check that it is connected to the correct Wi-Fi network. 

If not, disconnect and reconnect your Alexa to your home network. 

If everything is fine, but there is still a problem, maybe the Amazon servers are temporarily down, and Alexa cannot process your voice commands for now. 

You have to wait until the servers come back. 

Spotify is not linked to Alexa

Spotify should stay linked to Alexa. 

Otherwise, it won’t play music or respond to your voice commands. 

To check and verify it:

1. Go to the Alexa app. 
2. Go to SETTINGS and then PREFERENCES. 
3. Select MUSIC AND PODCASTS, and then select LINK NEW SERVICE. 
4. Select Spotify and link Spotify with Alexa.

Spotify Account Connection

Your Alexa won’t play Spotify if you have not logged into your Spotify account or connected to the correct account. 

After linking Spotify with Alexa, you must provide the login credentials to log in to your Spotify account. 

Check it in the Alexa app. 

Find the Spotify skill in the app, and check whether you are logged in. 

If not, immediately log in to activate your Spotify account. 

After that, Spotify will email you to confirm the new connection. 

Once you have signed in successfully, your Alexa will again start playing Spotify. 

Sometimes, users can get logged out accidentally. 

In that case, Alexa cannot access your music and podcasts. 

Check your login status to ensure you have signed in. 

App or Skill Updates

Every app runs on software that needs to stay updated. 

If you have not updated the Alexa app or Spotify, Alexa will neither respond to you nor play Spotify. 

You must update the Spotify and Alexa apps from the App Store and Google Play Store on your iOS and Android phones, respectively. 

Open the respective store, search for the app, and check for updates. 

If there is any, click the UPDATE button and download the latest version. 

You will find a blue dot next to the MENU button at the top right on your Homescreen for desktops and laptops. 

Click on it, and select the UPDATE AVAILABLE RESTART NOW option to update your apps to the latest version. 

It should respond and play music. 

Spotify’s shuffle is turned on

Keeping the shuffle on in your Spotify can sometimes create issues with the Alexa devices. 

As a result, your device may not respond when you ask it to play Spotify. 

So, try turning it off:

1. Open the Spotify app. 
2. Scroll and go to the NOW PLAYING box. The shuffle button will be green if the shuffle is active. 
3. Click on the Shuffle button to turn it off.

Voice Commands and Communication

Wrong voice commands can stop the Alexa device from playing music. 

When you say, “Alexa, play music,” that won’t work. 

You need to take Spotify and command Alexa to specifically play music from Spotify, especially if you have multiple music apps and Spotify is not the default player. 

Fortunately, you can set Spotify as your default music streaming app from within the Alexa mobile app. We will address that in the next point.

You must also structure your command to make it clear for Alexa. 

For example, if you want Alexa to play an exact playlist on Spotify, say, “Alexa, play <the name of the playlist> on Spotify.” 

You do not have to add “my” to the command, as that can confuse the app, leading the app not to play. 

Here are some simple Alexa commands for Spotify:

• Stop or Pause. 
• Play or Resume 
• Shuffle or Stop Shuffle 
• Alexa, play <song name> from Spotify. 
• Alexa, play <playlist name> from Spotify. 

If Alexa is the default music app, you may not have to say “from Spotify.” 

These are the commands I mostly use. 

Some Alexa features and services will vary based on the country and the device type. 

Spotify is not set as the default music player

If your device is not playing Spotify, you did not specify Spotify. 

This happens when Spotify is not your default music streaming app. 

If you do not want to specify every time, try setting the app as your default music app. 

When Spotify gets set as a default music, you do not always have to mention Spotify’s name while commanding Alexa to play the song. 

Instead of saying, “Alexa, play <song name> from Spotify,” you can say, “Alexa, play <song name>.” 

To make Spotify your default music streaming app:

1. Take your iPhone or Android phone and open the Alexa app. 
2. Select SETTINGS. 
3. Choose MUSIC & PODCASTS. 
4. Choose SPOTIFY as your default music player. 
5. Press DONE, and you can now play music on Spotify without any problem. 

Try testing Alexa by saying, “Alexa, play music.” 

If it works, you have fixed the problem. 

Podcasts are not supported by this method. You must mention Spotify while playing podcasts from Spotify through the voice commands. 

Alexa is not linked with the correct account

If you have multiple Spotify accounts, Alexa will not play songs from Spotify if you have not linked the correct account. 

You need to link the correct account and make it a default one. After that, Alexa will play songs on Spotify. 

Many users have two or more accounts on Spotify; one is the Premium one, and the others are the Free versions.

If you have more than one account, link the correct one. 

Otherwise, Alexa won’t play songs due to the incompatibility. 

Be careful while pairing the devices, and ensure that the accounts are correctly registered. 

Based on your location, Alexa may work with Spotify Premium only. 

In that case, you must get the Premium one to play Spotify on Alexa. 

Spotify has to be on the Premium version to use voice commands if you want to play Spotify on Alexa via voice commands. 

If you do not want to buy the Premium version, try other music streaming apps, like Amazon Music. 

Software errors 

Sometimes, some software errors and glitches can stop Alexa from playing Spotify. 

But unfortunately, you cannot identify the problem. 

In that case, revoke Alexa’s access from Spotify and relink Spotify with Alexa again. 

The easiest method is changing the default music player to Amazon Music and setting it to Spotify again. 

To unlink the Spotify app from Alexa via the app:

1. Open the app and tap MORE. 
2. Tap the SETTINGS menu and go to MUSIC AND PODCASTS. 
3. Choose Spotify in the list and tap on it. 
4. Click the button saying DISABLE SKILL, and confirm your choice. 

On the Spotify website:

1. Log in to your Spotify account on the Spotify website. 
2. Click on the profile and tap on ACCOUNT. 
3. Click APPS on the list, and look for Alexa that has access to Spotify. 
4. Tap on REMOVE ACCESS and verify your choice. 

Once you have unlinked it, close the app, refresh it, and go to the app and website again. 

In the same way, go to your website and app, select LINK ACCOUNT, and follow the on-screen prompts. 

This should fix the problem. If it doesn’t, try other troubleshooting ways. 

The profanity filter was turned on

The profanity or Explicit filters can sometimes stop Alexa from playing Spotify as a safety measure. 

This setting is active when you have children at home and want to keep them from listening to explicit songs and content. 

All you need to do is turn it off:

1. Open the Alexa app on your smartphone. 
2. Tap on the MORE option and select SETTINGS. 
3. Scroll down and tap on MUSIC AND PODCASTS, and then EXPLICIT FILTER. 
4. Please turn it off on the following on-screen prompt. 
5. Now, check whether Spotify is working. 

Try other troubleshooting tips

If you cannot solve the above issue with the provided troubleshooting steps, try following the solutions in this section.

Sometimes, some temporary glitches are responsible for Alexa not playing Spotify. 

Trying these solutions might solve the issue, and Alexa can again start playing Spotify: 

Remove Echo from Spotify 

If you still have communication problems with your Alexa device, especially with Spotify, Remove the Alexa device from your Spotify.

For that:

1. Log in to your Spotify app. 
2. Go to SETTINGS and remote the device, for example, Echo. 
3. Shut down the app and restart your phone. 
4. Open the Spotify app and pair the Alexa device with your Spotify after the reboot. 

Clear cache and app data on both apps

Try cleaning the cache and app data from both apps. Too much data and cache can lead to overloading and temporary glitches, for which Alexa does not play Spotify. 

Not only with Spotify, this can happen to any other app connected to your Alexa devices. 

To clear app caches and data:

1. Open SETTINGS on your smartphone. 
2. Go to the APP SETTINGS. 
3. Tap on the Spotify app, find the storage option, and tap CLEAR/DELETE CACHE. 

Similarly, find and tap on the Alexa app, find the storage option, and clear the caches. 

After that, restart your phone and check whether Alexa is playing Spotify. 

Restart your phone and Alexa device

When Alexa has issues with Spotify, one of the simple fixes is to restart the phone and the device. 

It will refresh your phone and can even clear the bugs and glitches. 

If you are not having trouble connecting the device to the Wi-Fi, unplug and replug the device.

To restart a device with removable batteries, for example, Echo Dot 4th Gen, remove the batteries and again return them in place. 

Do not worry; restarting will not do anything with your customized preferences. 

Reinstall the apps 

If you still cannot fix it, try deleting both the Spotify and Alexa apps and reinstalling them. 

Uninstall the apps, restart your phone, and install them back. 

Now, link the Spotify account with Alexa in the Alexa app. 

Power cycling the device

Another simple solution is to power cycle the device. 

This troubleshooting step gives you a high chance of solving the problem. 

I recommend turning off the device for 5 to 30 seconds and then turning it on. 

Here’s what you need to do:

1. Unplug the device from the power source. 
2. Wait for at least 15-30 seconds. 
3. Now plug back your device into the power outlet. 
4. Your device will start when the blue right light starts spinning. 

For battery-powered devices, open the batteries and let it be for 15-30 seconds. 

After that, put back the batteries and start your device. 

After you turn it on, check whether everything is working correctly. 

Resetting the Device

Resetting the Alexa device should be used as a last resort.

If you have tried all the troubleshooting tips mentioned above and still cannot fix the problem, resetting can solve it.

Resetting the device will remove all your customized settings and preferences. 

You have to connect your device to the Wi-Fi, link Spotify and login to the accounts, set it as a default music app if you had set it before, and many other things. 

It can be a real pain, but this can solve most of your problems. 

Factory resetting your Alexa device will be different based on the different models. But resetting the Alexa app is easy. 

Go to the Alexa app, and then Settings → Device options → Reset to Factory Defaults → Confirm reset. 

For different devices, follow the following instructions or follow the owner manual:

• Amazon Echo Dot 2nd Gen: Press the Microphone Off and Volume Down buttons for 20 seconds. 
• Amazon Echo Dot 3rd and 4th Gen: Hold and press the Action button for 25 seconds. 
• Amazon Echo Plus 1st Gen: Push the Reset button with a paperclip, pen, or another small tool. 
• Amazon Echo Plus 2nd Gen: Hold and press the Action button for 20 seconds. 
• Amazon Echo Show: Hold and press the Mute and Volume Down buttons for 15 seconds. 

Contacting Amazon Support

If you have exhausted all the troubleshooting steps above, contact the Amazon support team for help. 

You can contact them through the Alexa app, Amazon account, or website. 

Contact them, talk with them, and discuss your problems. 

Also, share the troubleshooting steps you have taken. 

They will provide proper guidance and solutions so that Alexa can start playing Spotify again. 

You can also find their contact number and call them directly to receive the solution over the phone. 

If you are not in a hurry, you also have the option to talk to them through live chats and emails. 

Also read:

• Why Is My Alexa Doing Random Things?
• How Do I Know If My Alexa Has Been Hacked?
• How Do I Stop Alexa From Spying On Me?
• Should I Unplug Alexa At Night?
• Can You Make Alexa Ignore Children?
• Can You Play SoundCloud On Alexa?

Preventive Measures

• Ensure that you have linked Alexa with Spotify and logged into your Spotify account. Also, if you have multiple accounts, ensure you are signed into the correct one. 
• Ensure a strong network connection when using Alexa devices to play Spotify. 
• Use unique and straightforward names for your Alexa devices and the playlists on Spotify. 
• Keep both Alexa and Spotify apps updated to stay free from bugs and glitches and avoid uninterrupted songs. 
• Use the correct and clear commands so that Alexa understands your words and communicates with you appropriately. Mention Spotify if you want Alexa to play music from it. 
• You can set Spotify as the default music player. In that case, you do not always have to specify Spotify. 
• Check for mute and volume buttons in the Alexa device before playing Spotify. 
• Sometimes, you can delete the apps, restart your device and phone, and again reinstall them. It can clear the bugs and glitches and stop you from facing this problem.

Final Thoughts

It is unlikely to run into problems with Spotify on Alexa devices. In most cases, the problem is either with the network issues or skill settings. Ensure a strong Wi-Fi connection and check that Spotify and Alexa are linked and that you’re logged in. 

Use simple names for your Alexa devices and playlist names to avoid conflicts. Always keep your apps up to date. You can set Spotify as your default music player. It can reduce the number of words to use while commanding Alexa and playing Spotify becomes easier. 

Try other troubleshooting tips like unlinking and relinking, clearing caches and data apps, uninstalling and reinstalling, restarting, power cycling, and resetting to solve such problems. Problems related to software glitches can be solved with these solutions. 

Reference: Spotify, Amazon Alexa Wikipedia