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What Does It Mean When Alexa Is Yellow?

We explain what the yellow lights mean, and why you don't need to be worried

Reviewed By: Kevin Pocock

Last Updated on May 10, 2023
alexa is yellow
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The Amazon Alexa Echo devices are available in different sizes and shapes. Some of them are screens, while others are orbs and cylinders. 

But you will see they all have one thing in common: the Alexa voice assistant and an LED indicator light to update you about the current status of your voice assistant. 

On those traditional Echo speakers, there was a light ring that could illuminate in different colors based on the current status of your assistant. But what about that yellow light ring? 

Let’s find out what this yellow ring is all about. 

What Does the Yellow Ring Look Like on Alexa & Should I be Worried? 

Nothing to worry about when you see that yellow ring on your Alexa. Your device will show this color for a few seconds; after that, it will just die away and pulse again. 

Some audio alerts can accompany this, but that might not necessarily happen. This yellow ring can be easily missed if no one is around to look at it. And that’s why people begin showing their concerns when they see it. 

If you have a cylinder or that puck-like device, the luminous yellow light will be in ring form. This light will be located right at the base if you have that orb-shaped device. And with the Echo Show, a bar will be on top of the screen. 

What Does This Yellow Ring Mean?

When the yellow light or ring turns on, it means your Alexa has something to inform you. It might be a reminder, a message you have just received, or any other notification. 

For instance, if you use your Alexa app to send and receive voice or text messages, someone else might send you using their Echo. The yellow ring will light up to indicate that. It will also light up if you have set a reminder and missed the audio notification. Some other activities can initiate this yellow light. But overall, the primary meaning here is that Alexa has something new to alert you about. 

Conclusion

You can ask by saying, “Alexa, play my messages” or “Alexa, check my notifications.” Of course, you can visit your Alexa app using your computer or smartphone. 

If that yellow light keeps pulsing, you might have to check your reminders. Set the correct permissions and turn off all other notifications for your Alexa app. It might indicate any of your current Amazon orders. 

Kevin is the Editor of PC Guide. He has a broad interest and enthusiasm for consumer electronics, PCs and all things consumer tech - and more than 15 years experience in tech journalism.