You can rename your Alexa device in the Alexa app in about two minutes
Amazon's Alexa devices come with default names like "Echo Dot" or "Echo Show," but you can change them to anything you want. The process is the same whether you own one device or several, and you do it through the Alexa mobile app or the web version. Once you rename a device, Alexa responds to voice commands using the new name, and the device appears under that name in your app.
This matters because if you have multiple Alexa devices in your home, giving them distinct names—like "Kitchen" or "Bedroom"—makes it much easier to control the right one. You can then say "Alexa, play music in the kitchen" instead of having to walk over to the device or use the app every time.
Key Takeaways
- Open the Alexa app, find the device you want to rename, and tap the settings icon (gear symbol) next to its name.
- Tap "Device Name" and type in whatever name you want—it can be a room name, a custom phrase, or anything else you choose.
- Alexa will respond to voice commands using your new name when ready after you save the change.
- If you have multiple devices, renaming them by room or location makes it easier to control the right one with voice commands.
Steps to rename your device in the Alexa app
Start by opening the Alexa app on your phone or tablet. If you do not have it, read it from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store, then sign in with the Amazon account connected to your Alexa device.
Once you are in the app, look at the bottom of the screen. You will see a row of icons—one of them is labeled "Devices." Tap that icon. The app will show you a list of all your Alexa devices. Find the one you want to rename and tap on it. A detail page will open showing that device's settings.
At the top of that page, you will see the device's current name with a small gear icon (settings button) next to it. Tap the gear icon. A menu will appear with several options, including "Device Name." Tap "Device Name." A text field will pop up with the current name highlighted. Delete the old name and type in the new one. Tap "Save" or "Done" (the button label depends on your phone's operating system). The change takes effect when ready.
Renaming a device using the web app
If you prefer to use a computer, you can rename your device through the Amazon Alexa website instead. Go to alexa.amazon.com and sign in with your Amazon account. On the left side of the page, click "Devices."
You will see a list of all your Alexa devices. Click on the device you want to rename. Its settings page will open. Look for the device name at the top and click the pencil or edit icon next to it. Type the new name in the text field that appears, then click "Save." The change will sync to your device within a few seconds.
What names work best for voice commands
Alexa responds to any name you give it, but some names work better than others for voice commands. Single-word names like "Kitchen," "Bedroom," or "Living Room" are easiest to say and for Alexa to understand. Two-word names like "Front Porch" or "Guest Room" work well too.
Avoid very long names or names that sound similar to other words Alexa might mishear. For example, if you name a device "Alex," Alexa might get confused because it sounds like her own name. Names with numbers or special characters (like hyphens or apostrophes) can also cause problems with voice recognition. Stick to straightforward, clear names and you will have no trouble controlling your devices by voice.
Renaming multiple devices at once
If you have several Alexa devices and want to rename them all, you do not have to do them one at a time, but there is no bulk-rename feature either. The fastest approach is to open the Alexa app, go to Devices, and work through each one. Most people spend less than a minute per device once they know the steps.
A common naming scheme is to use room names: "Kitchen," "Bedroom," "Living Room," "Bathroom," and so on. This makes it obvious which device you are talking to when you give a voice command. Some people also add descriptors like "Kitchen Echo Dot" or "Bedroom Show" if they want to be more specific, though the simpler the name, the faster Alexa responds.
What happens to routines and smart home controls when you rename a device
If you have set up Alexa routines or smart home automations that reference your device by its old name, renaming the device will not break those routines. Alexa updates the device name in the background, so any routines or automations tied to that device will continue to work without any changes on your part.
However, if you have voice commands that specifically mention the old device name—like a routine you created that says "Alexa, turn on bedroom lights"—and you rename the device to something else, you may need to update those commands manually. Most people do not run into this issue because they set up routines by room or function rather than by the device's specific name.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I rename my Alexa device to anything I want?
Yes, you can use any name you choose. Alexa will respond to it as long as it is not extremely long or full of special characters. Single or two-word names work best for voice commands because they are easier for Alexa to recognize.
Will Alexa still work if I rename it?
Yes, completely. Renaming the device does not affect how it works. Alexa will straightforward respond to the new name instead of the old one. All your settings, routines, and smart home connections stay the same.
What if I change my mind about the new name?
You can rename your device as many times as you want. Just go back into the Alexa app, find the device, tap the settings icon, and change the name again. There is no limit to how many times you can do this.
Do I need to tell Alexa the new name, or does it update automatically?
It updates automatically. You do not need to do anything after you save the new name in the app. Alexa will start responding to the new name right away, usually within a few seconds.
Can I rename my device if I do not have the Alexa app?
Yes. You can rename it through the web version at alexa.amazon.com using any computer or tablet with a web browser. The steps are the same as in the app.