Alexa, Amazon’s virtual assistant, is built into every Echo device. Normally, it works without any problems, but if you started to notice failures in capturing and reproducing commands, resetting the device to factory settings can help resolve the issue. Below, I’ll show you how to do this, both in the app and on the device itself.
How to Restore Alexa to Factory Defaults
In addition to solving possible problems, the restore also unlinks your Amazon account and erases all usage history, an important measure if you want to sell the device. That said, follow the instructions below to learn how to perform the procedure in the Alexa app, available for Android and iPhone (iOS) :
- Enter the devices area: Open the app, tap on “Devices” in the lower right corner and then on “Echo and Alexa”;
- Select device: Tap the name of the device you want to restore;
- Access the settings: Tap the gear icon in the top right corner to display the options;
- Unregister: Scroll down until you find the “Registered to” section. Once this is done, tap “Unregister” and then “Unregister” again to confirm the action — from this moment on, the Echo device will enter configuration mode and will display an orange light, indicating that the device has been reset.
How to Reset Alexa on Echo Device
3rd and 4th generation
Press the action button (“ball” icon) for 20 seconds.
2nd generation
Press the mute button (microphone icon with one line) and the volume down button for 20 seconds.
1st generation
Insert a fine-tipped object into the small physical reset button on the bottom of the device. Then wait until the light alternates between orange and blue twice.
Resetting Alexa can help resolve issues, but this process doesn’t work miracles. Therefore, if the device continues to have some kind of defect, contact Amazon to claim the warranty (if it is within the deadline).
