The appeal of Amazon’s Echo (or Alexa, as it is commonly known) include a variety of abilities ranging from instant news updates, streaming music, and having questions answered about any topic on a whim! While Alexa is growing more popular each day, there are alternative ways to put your Amazon Alexa to use.

If you do not have Wi-Fi in your home, or if you are planning on heading out for a vacation, you can still use your Alexa as a Bluetooth device with a bit of preparation. There are two ways to use Alexa without Wi-Fi:

• Use a mobile hotspot

• Connect Alexa via Bluetooth

Why Alexa Does Not Work Without Wi-Fi

Amazon’s Alexa is a device that strictly revolves around Wi-Fi to access everything from Google to various music-streaming services. Without Wi-Fi it is simply impossible to connect to these applications and features. In order to make the most out of your Amazon Alexa investment, a Wi-Fi connection or hotspot must be available to get started and to take advantage of all that the device has to offer.

Using Alexa as a Bluetooth Speaker

If you are wondering, “does the Amazon Echo Dot have to be plugged in?” that answer varies between power and connectivity. One way to utilize Alexa without having internet access or a steady Wi-Fi connection is to use your device as a Bluetooth speaker. To get started, you do need access to a Wi-Fi connection for the pairing process. If you do not have Wi-Fi in your home or while you are traveling, consider opting for a public Wi-Fi location or a venue that offers hotspots, always that any Wi-Fi connection you choose is secure to keep your personal and private data safe to avoid potential hackers or malicious individuals.

Once you have established a basic internet connection, you can quickly pair your phone with your Amazon Alexa. The following steps will help you pair your devices, so you can use your Alexa in the future without connecting to Wi-Fi:

• Open the Alexa application on your smartphone, select “Menu” and choose “Settings”.

• Pick the device you would like to pair.

• Select Bluetooth.

• Select a device from the list, then select “Forget.” Repeat this step for all other Bluetooth devices on the list.

Getting the Most out of Your Amazon Alexa

After your Alexa has successfully paired with your Bluetooth device, you can begin using Alexa as a second speaker. You can now stream any music, podcasts, and other audio material you have on your device. If you seek additional services and features, it is important to remember that a Wi-Fi connection is necessary. Amazon Alexa focuses on the ability to connect in order to maximize what it has to offer.

If you choose to opt for Wi-Fi in the future, be sure to do so with a secure connection that is safe and reliable.

If you are looking for a smart home automation device that works without Wi-Fi or integrates with Amazon Alexa products, check out security systems from Brinks Home™. Our systems work off of a Z-wave mesh network that makes your smart home devices continue to work when Wi-Fi is down. Contact a Brinks Home Security Consultant today to learn more.