Alexa Brief Mode [Guide with Pictures]

This article will go over how to configure the Amazon Echo smart speaker in order to make it use as a device like Google Home or Microsoft Cortana. This is not an exhaustive guide, so I’ll be touching on important topics such as setting up your voice assistant and connecting it with other devices.

Alexa Brief Mode is a feature that was released in the latest update to Amazon’s Alexa app. This new mode provides users with a quick way to control their devices without having to open up the full Amazon Alexa app. With this guide, you will be able to learn how to use the new features of Alexa Brief Mode and get started right away! Read more in detail here: new alexa devices.

In four easy steps, you may enable Alexa Brief Mode. Simply follow the instructions provided below.

Open your phone’s Alexa app.
Select Settings from the menu icon in the upper left corner.
Select Alexa Voice Responses from the drop-down menu.
Toggle the On/Off switch for Alexa Brief Mode.

3/14/20 – Updated for the Alexa app’s new navigation menu.

Alexa, please don’t say OK.

Is Alexa too chatty? Simply choose Brief Mode and relax in the stillness. Brief Mode is a simple option that reduces Alexa’s speaking time and prevents her from responding OK following orders.

Brief Mode is required if you use Alexa to operate smart home devices. If you say “Alexa, turn on the lights,” for example, Alexa will respond with “OK” before turning on the lights. If you activate Brief Mode, your Echo will just beep and turn on the lights.

In the Alexa app, you’ll see the following description.

What is Alexa Brief Mode, and how does it work?

When enabled, Alexa talks less and instead plays a brief sound instead of a vocal response for certain basic messages.

When you enable Brief Mode, it affects all Alexa devices associated with your account. It is not possible to switch it on for each device separately.

Brief Mode may be activated using the Alexa app on your phone or at https://alexa.amazon.com.

How can I activate Alexa’s Quick Mode?

To activate Alexa Brief Mode, follow these easy steps.

1 – In the Alexa App, go to Settings.

Select Settings from the “Hamburger” Menu in the upper corner of the Alexa App.

Menu Alexa

Alexa Preferences

2 – Select Alexa Voice Responses from the drop-down menu.

In the Alexa Account settings menu, choose Alexa Voice Responses.

Menu of Alexa Voice Responses

3 – Enable Alexa Short Mode.

Switch the Brief Mode switch to the on position.

Toggle Brief Mode on and off

Other Smart Home Alexa Projects

Check out these additional Alexa projects for your smart home now that you’ve prevented Alexa from saying OK.

Alexa Own Commands – Start a routine with your own custom Alexa voice command.
Manage and remove Alexa’s voice recordings and other information under the Alexa Privacy Settings.
Connect Ring to Alexa – Make your Echo devices become doorbell chimes by connecting your Ring Doorbell to Alexa.
Set up an Alexa favorite speaker to improve the sound quality of your music.
Accessories for your Echo Dot – The greatest accessories to make your Echo Dot even better.

P.S. If you have a question, want to assist someone else, or want to share your experiences, please leave a comment below. Thanks!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are brief modes on Alexa?

A: Brief modes are meant to be used in short conversations. They are a way of saying that the person youre talking with is not your primary focus and, as such, should only have brief interactions with you.