If you own an Echo Dot, you probably ask Alexa about the weather, music, or the news. It’s a great addition to any home and allows for more smart home automation. However, if your Wi-Fi suddenly stops working, you might be wondering if the Echo Dot will still work.
Below, we’ll discuss how the Echo Dot works and which features you can and can’t use without Wi-Fi.
Can You Use Echo Dot Without Wi-Fi?
The Echo Dot is a device that has to be connected to Wi-Fi to work properly. Without Wi-Fi, you won’t be able to use Alexa features, and the Echo Dot just becomes a regular speaker without smart capabilities.
Most smart devices, including the Echo Dot, have to be connected to Wi-Fi for a few reasons:
Simply put, the Echo Dot needs Wi-Fi to take the commands you give it and get information back from the external servers.
What Echo Dot Features Are Available without Wi-Fi?
Certain features will keep working without Wi-Fi, but not very many. For example, you can still use the speaker to play music with Bluetooth, but this will only work if you have already set up the Bluetooth connection before the Wi-Fi quit working.
To use the Echo Dot as a Bluetooth speaker, follow these steps:
- Open the Alexa app on your smartphone or tablet.Select Menu.Choose Settings.Select Bluetooth.Select a device from the list.Click Forget.Repeat this step for all the Bluetooth devices you have on the list.
All devices will need to be forgotten so that the Echo Dot can recognize the Bluetooth connection. If you need more help setting your speaker up with Bluetooth, check out this guide.
How Can I Use My Echo Dot Without Wi-Fi?
Without Wi-Fi, you will have to connect Alexa to a hotspot to continue using internet features. The hotspot will use your phone’s data to secure an internet connection between it and the Echo Dot.
To connect the Echo Dot to a hotspot, follow these steps:
- Open the Alexa app.Select Devices.Select Echo & Alexa.Choose your device from the list.Choose Change next to Wi-Fi network.Follow the instructions in-app and make sure your select your smart device’s network.
You should now be able to use your Echo Dot as normal.
Note: Keep in mind that hotspot streaming is often slower than Wi-Fi, especially if used for several hours. It may take Alexa longer to respond, and music may take longer to stream or upload.
Does the Echo Dot Use Wi-Fi All the Time?
The Echo Dot relies on an internet connection to perform most of its features and functions. Without Wi-Fi, Alexa and the Echo Dot can’t access or use Spotify, Google, or any other app.
However, know that the Echo Dot will only use Wi-Fi when it needs access to retrieve or send data. For example:
- Alexa will use Wi-Fi when you give it a command.Alexa will not use Wi-Fi when it’s idle.Alexa needs Wi-Fi when you ask it to access an app or platform.If you’re not currently using Alexa, it won’t be using the Wi-Fi.
