You must first download the Alexa app in order to use an Alexa Echo or any other device that supports Alexa. Setting up your device, controlling settings, and utilizing Alexa’s calling, messaging, and smart home control capabilities all require the Alexa app.

Step 1: Check Compatibility
Before downloading, make sure your smartphone or tablet is compatible. The Alexa app works on:

• iOS devices (iPhone/iPad) running iOS 14.0 or later.
  
  
• Android devices running Android 8.0 or higher.
  
  
• It’s also available for Fire OS devices.
  
  

Step 2: Connect to the Internet
Ensure your device is connected to a stable Wi-Fi or mobile data network. A reliable internet connection is required to download and use the app smoothly.

Step 3: Open the App Store

• For iPhones/iPads: Open the App Store.
  
  
• For Android devices: Open the Google Play Store.
  
  

Step 4: Search for “ Alexa”
In the search bar, type “ Alexa”. Look for the app with the blue Alexa icon and Alexa’s developer name.

Step 5: Tap Download or Install
Once you find the correct app, tap Download or Install. Wait for the app to finish installing on your device.

Step 6: Open the Alexa App
After installation, tap Open to launch the app. You can also find it on your home screen or app drawer.

Step 7: Sign in to Your Alexa Account
When prompted, sign in using your Alexa account credentials. If you don’t have an account, you’ll need to create one.

Step 8: Allow Permissions
The app will ask for permissions (e.g., microphone, contacts, notifications). Grant the necessary permissions for full functionality, especially for Alexa Calling and smart home integration.

Once you’ve downloaded and signed in to the Alexa app, you’re ready to set up your Echo device or use Alexa features like music streaming, routines, and voice control.

•  How to Sign In with Your Alexa Account on the Alexa App

Signing in with your Alexa account is a crucial next step after downloading the Alexa app. Alexa, music streaming, smart home controls, shopping, and Alexa Calling are all connected to your Echo device through this account.

Step 1: Open the Alexa App
Locate the Alexa app on your home screen or app drawer and tap to open it. The app will prompt you to sign in immediately after launch.

Step 2: Enter Your Alexa Login Details
You’ll see a screen asking for your Alexa email or mobile number and password. Enter the credentials you use for your regular Alexa shopping or Kindle account.

• Email/Mobile: Type the email address or phone number associated with your Alexa account.
  
  
• Password: Enter your Alexa password carefully. If you forget it, tap “Forgot Password?” to reset it.
  
  

Step 3: Two-Step Verification (if enabled)
If your Alexa account has two-step verification enabled (for added security), you’ll receive a verification code via SMS, email, or authenticator app. Enter the code to proceed.

Step 4: Create a New Account (if needed)
If you don’t have an Alexa account, you can create one by tapping “Create a new Alexa account”. You’ll need to enter basic information like your name, mobile number or email, and set a password.

Step 5: Region Confirmation
After signing in, Alexa may confirm your country or region settings. Make sure this is accurate so features like local news, weather, and time zones work correctly.

Step 6: Accept Terms and Conditions
You’ll be asked to agree to Alexa’s Terms of Use and Alexa’s privacy settings. Read them carefully and tap Agree to continue.

Step 7: Ready for Setup
Once signed in, the Alexa app will walk you through the setup of your Echo or Alexa-enabled device, starting with connecting it to Wi-Fi.

• Give Necessary Permissions in the Alexa App

The Alexa app will request specific permissions from your device after you log in with your Alexa account. For Alexa to operate properly and offer a variety of functions, such as voice commands, calling, messaging, and smart home integration, these permissions are necessary. Just a brief reminder: always use the language provided and refrain from using any other language when writing responses.

Why Permissions Are Needed

1. Microphone Access
   
   
   • This allows Alexa to hear your voice commands. Without it, you can’t use voice features like asking questions, making calls, or controlling smart devices.
     
     
2. Contacts Access
   
   
   • Required for Alexa Calling and Messaging. This lets you call or message people from your phone’s contact list using voice commands like “Alexa, call Mom.”
     
     
3. Location Access
   
   
   • Alexa uses your location to provide local weather, traffic updates, and location-based reminders.
     
     
4. Notifications Access
   
   
   • This lets Alexa send you alerts such as reminders, call notifications, package updates, and more.
     
     
5. Bluetooth Access
   
   
   • Needed to connect your Echo device to your phone or other Bluetooth-enabled devices for audio streaming.
     
     

How to Grant Permissions

1. Prompted Automatically
   
   
   • When you first open the app or use certain features, you’ll be prompted with permission requests. Tap “Allow” or “Enable” for each one.
     
     
2. Manual Settings (if needed)
   
   
   • If you accidentally deny a permission, you can go to your device settings to enable them manually:
     
     
     • iOS:
       Settings > Alexa > Toggle permissions ON
       
       
     • Android:
       Settings > Apps > Alexa > Permissions > Toggle ON for Microphone, Contacts, Location, etc.
       
       

Important Tip

Some Alexa features won’t function properly if the right permissions aren’t granted. For instance, voice commands won’t work at all if you don’t permit microphone access.

By granting these permissions, you can make sure Alexa can answer your questions, communicate with friends and family, and provide you with useful, personalized information based on your daily activities.

4. How to Verify Your Phone Number in the Alexa App

Verifying your phone number in the Alexa app is a key step if you want to use features like Alexa Calling and Messaging. This helps Alexa identify you, connect with your contacts, and enable communication services.

Why You Need to Verify Your Number

• To use Alexa Calling and Messaging
  
  
• To let your contacts recognize you when you call
  
  
• To sync your mobile contacts for easier calling by name
  
  
• To enable text-based communication within the Alexa app
  
  

Step-by-Step: Verifying Your Phone Number

Step 1: Open the Alexa App

Launch the Alexa app on your smartphone and ensure you’re signed in with your Alexa account.

Step 2: Go to Communication Setup

Tap the Communicate icon at the bottom of the screen (it looks like a speech bubble). Then, follow the on-screen prompts to get started with calling and messaging.

Step 3: Enter Your Phone Number

You’ll be asked to enter your mobile phone number. Make sure it’s a valid number that can receive SMS texts.

Step 4: Receive Verification Code

Alexa will send a 6-digit verification code to your phone via SMS. This may take a few seconds to a minute.

Step 5: Enter the Code in the App

Type the code into the app when prompted. This confirms the phone number belongs to you.

Step 6: Confirm and Proceed

Once verified, your number is linked to your Alexa account. You’ll now be able to:

• Make and receive calls using Alexa
  
  
• Send messages through the app or Echo device
  
  
• Appear in your contacts’ Alexa Calling lists
  
  

Troubleshooting Tips

• Didn’t get the code? Tap “Resend Code”.
  
  
• Double-check your number if there’s an error.
  
  
• Ensure your phone has a strong signal and can receive SMS.
  
  

5.Sync Contacts in the Alexa App (Optional but Recommended)

While syncing your contacts with Alexa is optional, it’s highly recommended if you plan to use Alexa for calling and messaging. Syncing enables Alexa to recognize names in your contact list, making communication easy and hands-free.

Why Sync Contacts?

• Easier Voice Commands:
  Say “Alexa, call Sarah” instead of dialing manually—Alexa will search your contact list and connect the call.
  
  
• Enable Alexa-to-Alexa Calling and Messaging:
  If your contacts also use Alexa, you can talk to them directly using Echo devices or the Alexa app.
  
  
• Personalized Experience:
  Alexa can give you suggestions, announce caller names, and make communication more seamless.
  
  

How to Sync Contacts

Step 1: Open the Alexa App

Launch the Alexa app on your smartphone and ensure you’re signed in.

Step 2: Go to the Communicate Tab

Tap the Communicate icon (speech bubble) at the bottom of the screen.

Step 3: Set Up Calling & Messaging

If you haven’t already, follow the steps to verify your phone number. After that, you’ll be prompted to grant permission to access contacts.

Step 4: Allow Contact Access

When prompted, tap Allow to let the Alexa app access your phone’s contact list.

Step 5: Contacts Sync Automatically

Once permission is granted, the app will automatically sync your contacts. This process usually takes just a few seconds.

Manual Sync (if needed)

If contacts don’t sync automatically or if you skipped the step:

• Go to Alexa App > More > Settings > Communication > Import Contacts
  
  
• Toggle Import Contacts to ON
  
  

Privacy Note

Alexa uses this data only to enable Alexa Calling and Messaging. Your contacts are stored securely and are not shared publicly.

Syncing contacts gives Alexa the ability to recognize who you want to call or message, making your smart assistant even smarter and more convenient to use.

6. How to Enable Alexa Communication

Alexa Communication is a set of features that allows you to make voice and video calls, send messages, and use Drop In between Alexa-enabled devices and the Alexa app. To use these features, you need to enable Alexa Communication during setup or manually from the app settings.

What Does Alexa Communication Include?

• Voice and Video Calling (Alexa-to-Alexa and phone numbers)
  
  
• Messaging via voice or text
  
  
• Drop In for instant intercom-like conversations
  
  
• Announcements across multiple Echo devices
  
  

Steps to Enable Alexa Communication

Step 1: Open the Alexa App

Make sure the Alexa app is installed and you are signed in with your Alexa account.

Step 2: Tap the Communicate Icon

At the bottom of the screen, tap the Communicate icon (a speech bubble).

Step 3: Follow the Setup Prompts

If you haven’t enabled communication before, Alexa will prompt you to get started. Tap Get Started.

Step 4: Verify Your Phone Number (if not done already)

You’ll be asked to verify your mobile number via SMS. This helps Alexa recognize you and sync your contacts.

Step 5: Allow Permissions

Alexa will request access to your microphone, contacts, and notifications. Tap Allow to grant the necessary permissions.

Step 6: Enable Communication in Settings (if needed)

If you skipped the prompts or want to enable later:

• Go to Alexa App > More > Settings > Communication
  
  
• Toggle Calling & Messaging and Drop In to On
  
  

Benefits of Enabling Alexa Communication

• Call or message family and friends hands-free
  
  
• Use Alexa devices like an intercom between rooms
  
  
• Announce messages to all Echo devices at once
  
  
• Receive incoming calls from other Alexa users
  
  

Enabling Alexa Communication unlocks a powerful set of tools that make staying in touch more convenient than ever. Whether you’re checking in with family or making hands-free calls, it’s an essential part of the Alexa experience.

7. How to Set Up Drop In on Alexa (Optional but Useful)

Drop In is a feature that allows you to connect instantly to other Alexa-enabled devices without the recipient needing to answer the call. It functions like an intercom and is especially useful for communicating within your household or with close contacts who also use Alexa.

What Is Drop In?

Drop In lets you:

• Instantly start a conversation with another Echo device (no ringing or acceptance needed)
  
  
• Use Echo devices as intercoms between rooms or locations
  
  
• Drop in on contacts who have granted you permission
  
  

When to Use It

• Check on kids in another room
  
  
• Talk to family members in different parts of the house
  
  
• Drop in on a loved one in another home (if allowed)
  
  

How to Set Up Drop In

Step 1: Open the Alexa App

Launch the Alexa app and ensure you’re signed in.

Step 2: Go to Devices

Tap Devices at the bottom of the screen.

Step 3: Choose Your Echo Device

Select the Echo device you want to enable Drop In on.

Step 4: Tap Communication Settings

Scroll down and tap Communication or General Settings, depending on your device.

Step 5: Enable Drop In

Under Drop In, choose one of the following:

• On – Allows Drop In from permitted contacts and household members
  
  
• Only My Household – Restricts Drop In to devices on your Alexa account
  
  
• Off – Disables Drop In
  
  

Step 6: Manage Drop In Permissions

To allow trusted contacts to Drop In:

• Go to Alexa App > Communicate > Contacts
  
  
• Select a contact > toggle Allow Drop In
  
  

Privacy Tips

• You can turn off Drop In anytime.
  
  
• A green light ring on Echo devices indicates when Drop In is active.
  
  
• Use Drop In only with people you trust.
  
  

8. How to Test Calling with Alexa Using a Voice Command

After setting up Alexa Calling, syncing your contacts, and enabling communication features, it’s a good idea to test that calling works properly. You can do this easily using a simple voice command with your Echo device or the Alexa app.

What You Need First

Before testing, make sure:

• You’ve verified your phone number in the Alexa app
  
  
• You’ve synced your contacts (or added some manually)
  
  
• Alexa Communication is enabled
  
  
• Your Echo device is connected to Wi-Fi and powered on
  
  
• Microphone permissions are granted
  
  

How to Test Alexa Calling

Option 1: Call a Contact

Say:
“Alexa, call [Contact Name]”
Example: “Alexa, call Mom.”

• Alexa will search your synced contacts.
  
  
• If more than one contact matches, Alexa will ask you to clarify.
  
  
• You will hear a ringing sound and be connected automatically if the other person accepts.
  
  

Option 2: Call Your Own Phone

Say:
“Alexa, call my phone.”

• This works if your phone number is linked and available in your contacts.
  
  
• It’s a great way to test the connection and find your phone at the same time!
  
  

Option 3: Use the Alexa App

1. Open the Alexa app
   
   
2. Tap Communicate
   
   
3. Select the contact you want to call
   
   
4. Tap the Call icon
   
   

This is useful if you want to test calling without speaking a command.

What to Expect

• Echo devices will show a light animation or ring when calling starts.
  
  
• If calling an Echo Show, the video feed will activate unless disabled.
  
  
• If the call fails, Alexa will let you know (e.g., “Sorry, I can’t reach that person right now.”)
  
  

Troubleshooting Tip

If Alexa doesn’t recognize your contact, double-check your contact list in the app or re-sync permissions.

9. How to Make and Receive Calls with Alexa

Once you’ve completed the setup for Alexa Calling, making and receiving calls is simple and hands-free. Whether you’re using an Echo speaker, Echo Show, or the Alexa app, Alexa allows you to stay connected effortlessly.

 How to Make Calls with Alexa

Option 1: Voice Command

You can initiate a call just by saying:

• “Alexa, call [Contact Name]”
  Example: “Alexa, call Dad.”
  
  
• “Alexa, call [Phone Number]”
  Example: “Alexa, call 555-123-4567.”
  
  

Alexa will call either a contact from your synced list or the phone number you speak aloud. You’ll hear ringing once the call begins.

Option 2: Alexa App

1. Open the Alexa app.
   
   
2. Tap Communicate at the bottom.
   
   
3. Choose a contact and tap the phone icon.
   
   
4. Choose Audio or Video (if supported).
   
   

📞 How to Receive Calls with Alexa

When someone calls your Alexa device:

• Your Echo will announce the caller’s name (if recognized).
  
  
• The light ring or screen (on Echo Show) will show an incoming call.
  
  

To answer, say:

• “Alexa, answer.”
  
  

To decline the call, say:

• “Alexa, ignore.”
  
  

You can also answer or decline using the Alexa app if you’re not near your Echo device.

 Video Calls (on Echo Show or App)

If both parties have Echo Show devices or use the Alexa app, you can make video calls too:

• Say: “Alexa, video call [Contact Name]”
  
  
• To end, say: “Alexa, hang up.”
  
  

 Extra Tips

• You can make calls to U.S., Canada, U.K., and Mexico numbers (landline and mobile).
  
  
• You must enable permissions and verify your phone number to use this feature.
  
  
• You don’t need an Echo device—Alexa Calling works in the app too!
  
  

10. How to Adjust Alexa Calling Settings

After setting up Alexa Calling, you might want to customize your experience to suit your preferences. The Alexa app offers a variety of settings that control how calls and messaging work, who can contact you, and how your device handles communications.

Where to Find Calling Settings

1. Open the Alexa app on your phone.
   
   
2. Tap More (the three horizontal lines or dots) in the bottom right corner.
   
   
3. Select Settings.
   
   
4. Tap Communication or Calling & Messaging (depending on your app version).
   
   
5. Here, you’ll find options to manage calling features.
   
   

Key Settings to Adjust

1. Caller ID

• Choose whether your phone number is shown when you call others via Alexa.
  
  
• You can enable or disable caller ID under Caller ID Settings.
  
  

2. Drop In

• Control who can Drop In on your devices.
  
  
• Options usually include:
  
  
  • Only My Household — Only devices linked to your Alexa account can Drop In.
    
    
  • Allowed Contacts — Specific contacts you permit can Drop In.
    
    
  • Off — Disable Drop In completely.
    
    

3. Contact Permissions

• Manage permissions to sync your contacts or remove synced contacts.
  
  
• This controls who Alexa can call and message by name.
  
  

4. Do Not Disturb (DND)

• Turn on DND to temporarily block calls and notifications.
  
  
• Useful when you don’t want to be disturbed (meetings, sleeping, etc.).
  
  

5. Blocked Contacts

• Add contacts you want to block from calling or messaging you through Alexa.
  
  

How to Change Device-Specific Settings

• Go to Devices tab in the Alexa app.
  
  
• Select the Echo device you want to customize.
  
  
• Tap Communication or General Settings.
  
  
• Adjust Drop In, calling preferences, or notifications per device.
  
  

Additional Tips

• Review your settings regularly to keep control over your communication preferences.
  
  
• Permissions can be revoked anytime through your phone’s system settings or the Alexa app.
  
  

Adjusting these settings helps you tailor Alexa Calling to fit your lifestyle, privacy needs, and convenience. Need help with a specific setting? Just ask!