How to control your TV with Alexa, and what to do when it stops working
With the right setup you can say, "Alexa, turn on the TV" or "Alexa, pause". How it works depends on whether you have a Fire TV or a different TV, so the first step is working out which.
Fire TV and Fire Stick
If you have a Fire TV Stick or Fire TV device, link it to your Echo in the Alexa app. Look in Devices and + then Add Device, and choose the TV or Fire TV option. Menu names in the Alexa app change from time to time, so if yours looks slightly different, look for the closest wording rather than worrying.
Once linked you can ask Alexa to open apps, search for shows, pause, play and rewind. Turning the TV on and off by voice may depend on the TV supporting HDMI-CEC. That is a setting on the TV itself, often called Anynet+, Bravia Sync, Simplink or something similar.
Other smart TVs
Many smart TVs from big brands have an Alexa skill or link in their own settings. Install the skill in the Alexa app, sign in to the TV brand account and allow the link. Then discover devices.
When it stops working
- Check the TV and Fire Stick are on, and on the same Wi-Fi as your Echo.
- Restart the Fire Stick by unplugging it for a few seconds.
- Check the TV's own settings to make sure HDMI-CEC or network control is still on after any TV update.
- In the Alexa app, check the TV is still shown as linked. If not, remove it and add it again.
- Say the TV's name clearly, as Alexa may hear it differently.
If only the power fails
Often Alexa can turn the TV on but not off, or the other way round. That usually points to a TV setting such as eco or quick start. Look in the TV's menus. We cannot say exactly where, as it varies for each brand.
When to get more help
If you have changed your TV, soundbar or Wi-Fi and it all stopped working, ask for help rather than repeatedly removing devices. Vision Tech can set it up properly.