The Genesis of Wi-Fi Transformation
This groundbreaking feature comes as a result of Amazon’s acquisition of Eero three years ago. Since then, Eero has risen to prominence as a leading provider of mesh Wi-Fi routers, including their latest offering, the Eero Max 7. With this integration, users can expand their Wi-Fi range by up to an impressive 1,000 square feet, provided they have one of the newer Echo devices. By seamlessly linking their Amazon and Eero accounts, users can enjoy uninterrupted connectivity and a boost in network performance.
The Compatible Echo Devices
Currently, only Echo devices sporting the “Eero Built-in” badge have the capability to serve as Wi-Fi extenders for the Eero mesh network. These include:
Echo Dot With Clock (5th Gen)
Echo Dot (5th Gen)
Echo (4th Gen)
Echo Dot With Clock (4th Gen)
Echo Dot (4th Gen)
It’s important to note that all Eero systems are compatible with this Echo upgrade, with the exception of the first-generation 2016 Eero Home Wi-Fi System. While this integration is undoubtedly a game-changer, it’s essential to manage your expectations regarding the performance. The top speed achievable is 100 Mbps, and the system can support a maximum of 10 connected devices. Additionally, the Echos exclusively support the 5GHz band, which might not penetrate walls as effectively as extenders that support the 2.4GHz band. Nevertheless, considering this feature comes as a complimentary bonus, it’s a substantial win for those who embrace it.
Optimizing the Eero-Echo Partnership
To make the most of this integration, it’s crucial to link your Amazon and Eero accounts. This synergy not only optimizes mesh Wi-Fi extension but also enhances the overall user experience by enabling additional features beyond Eero Built-in, such as a Zigbee Smart Home Hub.
To initiate the process, ensure that you’re using the same Amazon account for Eero, your Echo devices, and the Alexa app, and they must all be connected to the same Wi-Fi network. Moreover, confirm that your Eero system, Alexa app, and Echo speakers are updated. Here’s how:
- Open your Eero app and navigate to Settings > Software version. It should be at least v6.12.1 or later.
- To update your Alexa app on iOS, open the App Store, tap on your Account profile in the top right corner, scroll down to Available updates, and update Alexa if a new version is available.
- For Android users, open the Google Play Store, tap your Profile at the top right, select Manage apps and devices, and update Alexa if a new version is available.
- You can update your Echo speaker by simply saying, “Alexa, check for software updates.”
Once these steps are completed, all that remains is to open the Eero app, go to the Discover tab, tap on Amazon Connected Home, select Eero Built-in, and toggle it on. You’ll see a list of compatible Echo devices, and you can choose the ones you want to use as Wi-Fi extenders. For optimal results, Eero recommends using Eero Built-in on no more than four Echo devices simultaneously and turning off devices that are in close proximity to each other.
A Cost-Effective Solution
While top-tier Wi-Fi extenders and high-end mesh networks offer exceptional performance and support for numerous devices, they can be expensive. For those who are already proud owners of Eero and Alexa Echo devices, this new feature is an unbeatable, cost-effective solution. It offers an impressive boost in Wi-Fi coverage, providing seamless connectivity, all at no additional cost.
In a rapidly evolving tech landscape, staying ahead of the curve is paramount. With the Eero Built-in feature on your Amazon Echo, you can future-proof your home or office network, ensuring that tomorrow belongs to those who embrace it today. Embrace the power of this innovative partnership and elevate your Wi-Fi experience to new heights.
Disclosure: There is an affiliate link in this post and if you buy something, I’ll get a commission at no extra cost to you.
This content is free, and by using these links, You’ll be supporting my work and that means a whole lot to me.