Echo Show Not Responding to Voice Commands? Try These Fixes

Is your Echo Show not responding to voice commands? Learn the most common causes and follow these quick troubleshooting steps to get Alexa working again.

For Alexa Helpline Or Customer Support

The Echo Show combines the power of Alexa with a smart display, making it one of the most versatile devices in your home. But when your Echo Show stops responding to voice commands, it can quickly become frustrating—especially when Alexa ignores your requests completely.

In this guide, we’ll cover the most common reasons why Echo Show is not responding to voice commands and walk you through practical, easy-to-follow fixes to restore functionality.

Why Is My Echo Show Not Responding to Voice Commands?

When your Echo Show doesn’t react to "Alexa" or other voice prompts, it usually boils down to one of the following issues:

• Microphone is muted

• Alexa didn't hear you clearly

• Software glitch or outdated firmware

• Echo Show is offline or disconnected from Wi-Fi

• Wake word not detected

• Do Not Disturb or privacy settings enabled

Fortunately, most of these issues are simple to troubleshoot.

How to Fix Echo Show Not Responding to Voice Commands

1. Check the Microphone Status

A muted microphone is one of the most common culprits.

How to check:

• Look at the top of your Echo Show. If the mic off button is glowing red, the microphone is muted.

• Tap the microphone button once to unmute. You should see the red light turn off.

Now try saying, "Alexa, what time is it?" to see if it responds.

2. Ensure You're Using the Correct Wake Word

Alexa devices won’t respond unless they hear their wake word.

Tips:

• Say "Alexa" clearly and without background noise.

• If you changed the wake word, confirm it in the Alexa app under:

  Devices> Echo & Alexa> [Your Echo Show]> Wake Word

Try switching it back to "Alexa" if it was changed unintentionally.

3. Reboot the Echo Show

A simple restart can fix temporary software glitches.

How to restart:

• Unplug your Echo Show from the power outlet.

• Wait 10 seconds, then plug it back in.

• Wait for it to reboot fully and try a voice command again.

4. Check the Wi-Fi Connection

If your Echo Show is offline, Alexa won’t process voice commands.

To verify:

• Swipe down on the Echo Show screen.

• Tap Settings> Network to check your Wi-Fi status.

• Reconnect or switch to a stable Wi-Fi network if needed.

You can also test internet access on another device to rule out router issues.

5. Turn Off Do Not Disturb

When Do Not Disturb is enabled, Alexa may ignore non-urgent voice commands.

To disable:

• Swipe down on the Echo Show screen.

• Tap the Do Not Disturb icon (a circle with a line through it).

• Or say, "Alexa, turn off Do Not Disturb."

6. Check Alexa’s Voice History

Sometimes Alexa hears your command but doesn’t understand it.

To review what Alexa heard:

• Open the Alexa app.

• Go to More> Activity> Voice History.

• See if Alexa picked up your command or misinterpreted it.

This can help you diagnose microphone sensitivity or misheard phrases.

7. Update the Device Firmware

An outdated system can cause performance issues.

How to check for updates:

• Swipe down> Settings> Device Options> Check for Software Updates

• Make sure your Echo Show is plugged in and connected to Wi-Fi.

8. Factory Reset (Use as a Last Resort)

If nothing else works, a reset may be necessary.

Steps:

• Swipe down> Settings> Device Options> Reset to Factory Defaults

• Reconnect your Echo Show and go through the setup process again.

Final Thoughts

If your Echo Show is not responding to voice commands, the issue is often minor and easily fixable. Start by checking the microphone, wake word, and Wi-Fi connection, and work your way through the other steps as needed.

By following this guide, you’ll get your Echo Show listening and responding again in no time.

Need help with Alexa? Call the Alexa Helpline for assistance with setup, troubleshooting, and device issues. Expert support available 24/7. Get help now—your smart home made simple.