While older Echo speakers still feature an AUX jack, the convenience of voice commands has been discontinued.
Amazon has recently made a change that impacts the AUX input voice commands on several earlier models of the Echo speaker. A customer shared an email from Amazon indicating that phrases like “Alexa, play from line in” and “Alexa, set AUX input” are no longer functional. This alteration could be minor, yet it poses an inconvenience for individuals accustomed to using voice commands to switch to wired audio sources.
The devices affected include the second-generation Echo Plus, third-generation Echo, original Echo Studio, and fourth-generation Echo. Amazon has acknowledged this change, confirming that they communicated with the “very small number of customers” who used voice commands for AUX functionality. However, the company did not provide a reason for discontinuing this feature.
On a positive note, the physical AUX connection remains operational, allowing users to play audio via a cable. Moreover, the Alexa app can still be utilized to manage the AUX input settings for compatible models.
What does the AUX port on older Echo speakers do?
The 3.5mm AUX jack found on supported Echo speakers can perform two roles based on the specific model. It functions as an input, enabling the device to play audio from external sources like smartphones or computers, or as an output, directing Alexa’s audio to an additional speaker or amplifier. Both uses utilize the same physical connection, just in reverse directions.
Models such as the third-generation Echo, fourth-generation Echo, and second-generation Echo Plus support both input and output functionalities, whereas the original Echo Studio only accommodates input. In contrast, older Echo Dots provide output options only. The latest generation of Echo Dots has eliminated the 3.5mm port altogether.
There remains a strong incentive to keep older devices, such as an early 2000s Sony CD changer, which can connect to an original Echo Studio using an RCA-to-3.5mm cable. This allows users to enjoy their CDs through the Echo without the need for a Bluetooth transmitter or replacement of the player. Despite the recent reduction in Alexa’s functionality, the physical connection remains unaffected.
AUX is still usable, but with limitations
If you own a compatible Echo connected through a 3.5mm audio cable, you can still access the AUX feature via the Alexa app. By selecting your speaker under the Devices section, you can find the AUX Audio setting and enable Line In to play audio from external devices. For models that support both input and output, Line Out allows sound to flow from the Echo to another wired speaker or receiver. Depending on the Alexa app version, this option may appear under General settings.
Once connected, users must utilize the controls of the source device to initiate playback or navigate through tracks. Previously, voice commands were used to manage the AUX input, but now control lies with the connected equipment.
In conclusion, there’s no immediate need to replace your Echo device simply to maintain AUX functionality. However, be mindful that any upgrades to Echo devices featuring a 3.5mm input may lead to the loss of this feature, such as when upgrading from a first-generation Echo Studio to a newly designed model in the coming years.
