Extend Amazon Echo Reach with Voice Remote
Expanding Your Amazon Echo's Capabilities
The combination of Alexa and the Amazon Echo provides a powerful voice-controlled personal assistant experience, coupled with a versatile hardware platform.
However, even the highly sensitive microphones integrated within the Echo devices possess inherent limitations regarding range and accessibility.
Enhancing Whole-House Voice Control
To broaden the operational scope of your Echo, consider utilizing the compatible Voice Remote accessory.
This addition facilitates whole-house functionality, allowing for voice commands to be registered and executed from a greater distance.
The Voice Remote effectively extends the reach of your Alexa-enabled system throughout your home.
It’s a simple way to improve the convenience and usability of your smart home setup.
Extending the Range of Your Amazon Echo
This guide isn't particularly relevant if you reside in a compact living space, as a single, centrally located Echo device will likely provide sufficient microphone coverage. However, those living in larger homes or apartments may encounter limitations with their Echo’s reach.
Despite having sensitive microphones, it can be challenging to issue commands to Alexa from distant areas like basements, upper floors, or other parts of the house.
The Voice Remote Solution
For frequent Echo users who regularly utilize Alexa to control smart home devices, manage music, or create to-do lists, being outside the Echo’s audible range can be frustrating. A solution is to pair your Echo with Amazon’s official Voice Remote for Amazon Echo, priced at $29.99.
This allows for seamless and immediate interaction with your Echo from any location within your home.
Related: How to Stop Your Amazon Echo from Listening In
The remote also offers an added benefit for privacy-conscious users. It can function as an on-demand microphone system, even if the main Echo unit’s microphone is disabled.
Remote Package Contents
The Voice Remote package includes both the remote itself and a base. The base is magnetic, enabling attachment to both the remote and any metallic surface.
For mounting on non-magnetic surfaces, a reusable adhesive strip is also provided within the package.
It’s worth noting that, due to high demand for both Echo devices and the Voice Remote, the remote appears to be temporarily out of stock as of this article’s publication.
Connecting Your Remote to Your Echo Device
Establishing a connection between your remote and Echo is generally a simple process, though minor issues can occasionally arise. Begin by unpacking the remote control and inserting the necessary AAA batteries. Set the remote aside briefly while you prepare the next step.
Next, launch the Amazon Alexa application on your smartphone. If you are a new Echo user and require assistance with the initial Echo setup, a comprehensive guide can be found elsewhere on our site.
Within the Amazon Alexa app, locate and tap the menu icon situated in the upper left-hand corner. From the sliding menu that appears, select "Settings," which is typically found near the bottom of the list.
In the "Settings" menu, choose the specific Echo device you intend to pair the remote with. For example, you might select "Jason's Echo" as illustrated above.
In some instances, you may encounter the option "Forget device remote" instead of "Pair device remote." Since only one remote can be actively paired with an Echo at a time, this is common if the device was previously owned. Select "Forget device remote" before proceeding to pair a new one.
The application, and your Echo device itself through spoken prompts, will then guide you to confirm that the batteries are correctly installed in the remote. You will be instructed to press and hold the central Play/Pause button for a duration of 5 seconds.
Release the button, and within approximately 40 seconds, both the application and the Echo should confirm that the pairing process has been successfully completed.
Controlling Your Echo with the Remote
The Echo remote offers dual functionality, encompassing both voice activation and controls for physical media. Volume adjustment is achieved through the plus and minus buttons, while playlist navigation is facilitated by the left and right arrow keys.
Playback can be started or halted using the prominent central play/pause button. Voice commands operate similarly to those used directly with the Echo device, but with a key difference.
A wake word isn't required when utilizing the remote; activating the microphone icon serves as the activation signal. Instead of saying "Alexa, play some Christmas music," simply state "Play some Christmas music" after pressing the microphone button.
Beyond its practical applications, the Voice Remote’s “Simon Says” feature provides entertainment. While amusing when used in close proximity to the Echo, its potential for playful deception increases significantly when operated remotely.
Imagine instructing your children to complete a chore, then discreetly using the remote to issue a command like, "Simon Says 'Nicole, your father requested you take out the trash.'" The resulting surprise is almost guaranteed.
Do you have a specific technical inquiry regarding voice assistants, smart home technology, or other contemporary innovations? Send your questions to ask@howtogeek.com, and we will endeavor to provide helpful responses.