Voice-command recognition in smart speakers can be affected by placement, background noise, echo, distance and even similar names for connected devices.
Practical troubleshooting steps include repositioning the speaker, cleaning it with a dry cloth, and using distinct device and room names.
Amazon Echo also allows a different wake word for each device.
Change location and try again.
If the speaker is dusty or dirty, clean it with a dry cloth. It may also help to move it to another location or room. Fans and other speakers, echoes, and being too far from the speaker can make it difficult to recognize the voice. Try to place it at least 12 inches (30,5 cm) away from walls.
If you have more than one smart speaker, it may be that the one that isn't the closest one is responding. If the app allows it, lower the sensitivity of the speaker that accidentally turns on. On Amazon Echo, you can also set a different wake word for each device.
After changes in location or settings, try again with voice commands. Make sure the speaker can do what you ask it to do, and speak clearly, using short phrases.
If you have smart devices in your home, give each one a different and clear name. Similar names can cause the speaker to confuse the devices. It also helps to have clear names for rooms within the home app.
Set up your voice recognition
On Amazon Echo, open the Alexa app and select More > Settings > Account Management > Your Profile > Voice ID . You will be asked to say a few phrases to set up your voice recognition. Voice ID is also recognized across different platforms.
For Google speakers, open the Google Home app and select Settings > Google Assistant > Voice Match . You can set up to six different voices for each home.
On your Apple HomePod, open the Home app, select your user profile, and turn on Recognize My Voice . To make Siri work better across devices, open your phone's iCloud settings. Tap See All next to Saved to iCloud and turn on Siri.
If all else fails, unplug the speaker from the power outlet for a minute and plug it back in. A factory reset deletes your customized settings, so only try this if nothing else has worked.
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