Amazon removes Alexa’s ability to control Echo AUX input
▼ Summary
– Amazon has disabled voice commands via Alexa to control devices connected through the AUX input on specific Echo models.
– Users received notifications informing them that requests like ‘Alexa, play from line in’ are no longer supported.
– The change impacts older Echo devices including the Echo Plus 2nd Gen, Echo 3rd Gen, Echo Studio 1st Gen, and Echo 4th Gen.
– Physical audio connectivity via the 3.5 mm port remains functional for direct listening without voice control.
– Users can still manage AUX input settings using the Alexa app on their mobile devices.
Amazon has officially disabled voice control features for the AUX input on select Echo smart speakers, effectively ending the ability to manage external audio sources through Alexa commands. This shift marks a significant reduction in functionality for users who relied on integrating legacy audio equipment with their smart home ecosystem.
The change was communicated directly to affected customers via email earlier this week. The notification provided specific details regarding the new limitations, stating clearly: “This is a reminder that as of today, voice commands to control your Echo device’s Aux input are no longer available. Requests like ‘Alexa, play from line in” or “Alexa, set aux input’ will no longer work.” A screenshot of this correspondence shared by a Reddit user confirmed the widespread distribution of these messages. An Amazon spokesperson later verified the information to Ars Technica, confirming that the company has indeed rolled out this update.
While the removal of voice commands may inconvenience some users, the underlying hardware connectivity remains intact. The physical 3.5 mm AUX ports on affected devices continue to function normally, allowing audio to pass through from connected sources without interruption. Furthermore, users retain the ability to toggle the AUX input settings manually through the Alexa mobile application. This means that while hands-free voice activation is gone, software-based management of the feature is still possible.
It is important to note that this update does not impact all Echo devices. Amazon has not manufactured an Echo speaker with a 3.5 mm port for several years, so the change only applies to a specific subset of older models. The affected devices include the Echo Plus 2nd Gen, released in 2018; the Echo 3rd Gen, which launched in 2019; the original Echo Studio, also released in 2019; and the Echo 4th Gen, which came to market in 2020. For owners of these specific units, the transition represents a permanent loss of a once-unique integration capability, even if basic audio passthrough remains operational.
(Source: Ars Technica)
