The action button plays a crucial role in troubleshooting and how-to guides for Echo users. However, if you own an Echo Show 5, Echo Show 8, or Echo Show 10, you might notice a problem: there is no action button!
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No Action Button on Echo Show
Interestingly, none of the Echo Show models come equipped with an action button. Instead, you can use the screen to perform various tasks such as resetting the device and stopping timers. This method works for all Echo action button tasks except waking up Alexa.
In this article, we will delve into what the Alexa action button does, why the Echo Show lacks one, and how you can utilize the screen in place of an action button.
What Is the Purpose of the Alexa Action Button?
The action button on most Echo devices serves multiple purposes. Here’s what you can use it for:
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Put Echo in setup mode: By pressing and holding the action button, you can reset Alexa and enter setup mode. During this process, Echo displays an orange light, allowing you to connect Alexa to your Wi-Fi network.
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Wake Alexa: When it’s inconvenient to say “Alexa” or when Alexa is unresponsive, a simple press of the action button on an Echo or Echo Dot will grab its attention.
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Stop Alexa alarms and timers: Instead of verbally instructing Alexa to stop an Echo timer or alarm, you can easily press the action button to silence them.
Where Can You Find the Action Button on Echo Show?
Unlike other Echo devices, the Echo Show does not feature an action button. Instead, you can utilize the touchscreen for tasks such as canceling timers or resetting your Echo. However, unlike other Echos, you cannot wake the Echo Show without using the wake word.
For example, when your timers go off, you’ll be presented with a screen that includes a “Dismiss” button. Pressing this button will stop the timer, just as pressing the action button on an Echo Dot would.
In fact, the screen replaces most of the action button’s functions and even several functions of the Alexa app. With the Echo Show’s touchscreen, you have access to all device settings, a feature previously only available through smartphone or computer apps.
Where Is the Reset Button on Echo Show?
To reset an Echo Show, you’ll need to utilize the touchscreen. Follow these steps:
- Swipe down from the top of the screen to bring up the menu bar.
- In the menu bar, select “Settings”.
- Scroll down in the Settings menu until you find “Device Options”. Select that option.
- Scroll through the Device Options menu until you locate “Reset to Factory Defaults”. Select it to reach the confirmation page.
- Press “RESET” to complete the reset process. Ensure that you understand the impact before proceeding.
- Wait for your Echo Show to reset. The process takes roughly 2-3 minutes, during which time the device will restart.
What Are the Buttons on Top of the Echo Show?
The Echo Show comes with three buttons and a slider positioned along the top. Although they do not replace the action button, they serve similar purposes to the other buttons found on the Echo or Echo Dot.
Here’s what these buttons and slider do:
- Mute button: This button disables the Echo’s microphone and prevents the Show from listening for its wake word. When the device is muted, you’ll notice a red bar at the bottom of the screen and a mute icon in the upper right corner. To unmute, simply press the mute button again.
- Volume up and down buttons: These buttons allow you to adjust the speaker volume of the Echo Show. When you press either button, a volume slider will appear, indicating the current volume level. Alternatively, you can control the volume by pressing and dragging on the touchscreen.
- Camera privacy slider: The privacy slider physically covers the Echo Show’s camera. You can manually enable or disable the slider, ensuring your privacy. When you move the slider, you’ll see an info bar at the top of the screen indicating whether the camera is on or off. If you inspect your device’s usual camera lens location, you can observe the cover itself.
How to Put Echo Show in Setup Mode
To put your Echo Show in setup mode, you’ll need to reset the device using the aforementioned steps. Once the reset process is complete, your Echo Show will be ready to set up for a new user.
It’s important to note that you don’t need to use Alexa’s setup mode to change Wi-Fi networks or pair your Echo with your smartphone. You can accomplish these tasks in the settings menu.
There are only two reasons to employ setup mode:
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If you have purchased a used Echo Show and need to switch it to your account. However, this step might not be necessary for new or certified refurbished Echo Shows, as they are shipped ready for setup.
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If your Echo Show is unresponsive due to an Alexa firmware update problem or a similar issue, and you have no choice but to perform a factory reset to resolve it.
What’s Next?
Transitioning from an Echo or Echo Dot to an Echo Show can present some challenges when it comes to screen-based actions. Nevertheless, fear not! The touchscreen is incredibly intuitive, and you’ll quickly appreciate its advantages.
Compared to most Alexa speakers, the Echo Show carries a higher price tag. In fact, the upcoming Echo Show 15 will be the most expensive Alexa device, surpassing even the Echo Studio with its remarkable 3D Audio capabilities.
However, the added functionality of the screen transforms the Echo Show into an exceptional smart hub. It enables various new uses for smart plugs, integration with security camera feeds, and much more. Once you adapt to the absence of an action button, you’ll find the Echo Show to be an incredible device.
Ready to explore more about Echo Show and other related topics? Check out 5 WS, a comprehensive resource for all things tech!
