Introduction
By default, Alexa will call you by your first and last name associated with your Amazon account. And while Amazon doesn’t make it possible to create a nickname that Alexa can call you instead, it is possible to get Alexa to call you a different name by modifying your Alexa contact information. Also, don’t worry, changing what Alexa calls you won’t change your information associated with your Amazon account.
Some of the images associated with the steps are included inline below. All images associated with these steps can be seen in the embedded YouTube video. Also, please note that you’re not able to leave a comment directly on this article. If you have a question or feedback, please leave it on the YouTube video.
Steps to Get Alexa to Call You a Different Name
- Launch the Alexa app on your iPhone, iPad or Android device, and then tap “Communicate” in the menu along the bottom of the screen. The Communication screen is shown.
- Tap the icon featuring a silhouette of a person at the top of the screen. The Contacts screen is displayed.
- Tap your name that appears at the top of this list. The My Communications Settings for your account is shown.
- Tap “Edit” on this screen. The Edit Contact screen is displayed.
- Tap to change the fields associated with your first and last name to reflect what you want your Alexa devices to call you, and then tap “Save.” In this example, I’ll change my name to James Howlett. Going forward, when your Amazon Alexa devices address you, they will use the name you entered. Again, this doesn’t affect your larger Amazon account, but is just changing your name in Alexa’s list of contacts. Images are included below.
5 Reasons to Have Alexa Call You a Different Name
1. Personal Preference and Comfort
Many individuals opt to have Alexa call them by a different name out of sheer personal preference. This choice could stem from disliking their legal name or finding a nickname more reflective of their identity. For instance, someone named Jonathan might prefer the more casual “Jon.” Using a name that feels more “you” can significantly enhance your interaction with the device, making the technology feel more personable and tailored to your life.
2. Privacy and Security
In today’s digital age, privacy is more crucial than ever. By having Alexa call you by a pseudonym, you can add an extra layer of security to your interactions. This is particularly useful in environments where conversations might be overheard. If someone overhears your device interactions, using a different name can prevent them from obtaining personal information that could be used in identity theft or other malicious activities.
3. Fun and Novelty
Using a different name can also introduce an element of fun and novelty into your daily routine. Imagine the delight in having Alexa call you “Batman” or “Queen Elizabeth.” This can be a whimsical way to lighten your day or add a touch of humor when interacting with your smart devices. It’s a simple tweak that can bring a smile to your face and anyone else who might be listening.
4. Household Harmony
In households with multiple people sharing smart devices, setting unique names for each user can help Alexa better differentiate between voices and commands. This functionality ensures that Alexa responds accurately to personalized requests, such as playing music playlists or setting reminders, based on who is speaking. It enhances user experience by making interactions smoother and more efficient.
5. Testing and Development
For developers and tech enthusiasts, changing the name Alexa responds to can be part of testing how voice assistants handle variations in input. This can provide insights into developing more robust voice recognition features. It’s also helpful for those creating tutorials or demonstrations, showing how customizable and flexible these devices can be in adapting to different user settings and preferences.
