How to Update an Echo Dot

This article explains how to update an Echo Dot, including how to receive automatic updates and how to manually update an Echo Dot.

How Do I Update Echo Dot Software?

Under normal circumstances, your Echo Dot will update its software automatically from time to time. However, a number of things can cause an update to fail, or a Dot to not update itself right away when an update becomes available. If you suspect your Echo Dot needs an update, you can force it to update. 

Here’s how to manually update an Echo Dot:

1. Make sure your Echo Dot is on, connected to your Wi-Fi network, and connected to the internet.
   

   Use an Alexa command like, “Alexa, what time is it?” to verify it’s on and connected.

2. Press the mute button.
   

3. Verify the ring light turns red, or the mute button turns red.
   

4. Wait for the Echo Dot to update.
   

   If the Dot is already fully updated, it won’t update.

Does My Echo Update Automatically?

Echo Dot is designed to update automatically, as long as it’s connected to the internet and isn’t busy with another task. If your Echo Dot is in a noisy environment where it constantly has to determine whether or not someone is addressing it, or it’s constantly in use playing music, activating smart home devices, and performing other tasks, it may experience difficulties performing automatic updates.

An Echo Dot also can’t update itself if it isn’t connected to the internet, so a spotty or weak internet connection can prevent updates. An update can also fail for a number of other reasons, so manually updating an Echo Dot is sometimes necessary.

Does An Echo Dot Need to be Updated?

Your Echo Dot may or may not need to be updated, depending on whether or not it has been installing its automatic updates regularly. Amazon does release software updates from time to time, so every Echo Dot does need to be updated eventually. Software updates can increase the stability of your Echo Dot, close security loopholes, add new features, and more.

If you suspect your Echo Dot may need an update, you can check whether or not one is available on the Amazon website. You’ll need to check the version of the software on your Echo Dot, compare that to the number of the latest release. If your Echo Dot has an old version of the software, then it needs to be updated.

Here’s how to check if your Echo Dot needs an update:

1. Navigate to the Alexa page on Amazon's site.
   

2. Click Settings.
   

   

3. Click your Echo Dot in the list of your devices.
   

   

4. Scroll down to the About section, and look at the Device software version.
   

   

5. Navigate to the Alexa Device Software Versions site, and check the latest software version for your Echo Dot.
   

   

6. If your Echo Dot has an older version installed, it needs an update.