How To Fix Alexa Error 701?

Asking Alexa questions is fun and useful unless you get ineffective responses like “unable to reach the requested skill” or “Hmm, I don’t know that“. Other times, you may notice your device responds in a strange tone or nothing when you ask a query. All these are signs of error 701 which is common to Alexa users. There can be many reasons behind such errors, such as corrupted files or network issues. The following guide details how to fix Alexa error 701 on your device using various effective methods. So, stick till the end to know it all!

What Is Alexa Error 701 And How To Fix This Error: Step-by-Step Guide

What is Alexa Error 701?

Alexa error 701 is a common issue appearing in Alexa devices. It is commonly displayed on the device’s screen or communicated through a voice prompt.

You can identify error 701 by Alexa’s lack of response. But, the following repetitive phrases and conditions also state Alexa’s malfunction. Let’s look into that.

Alexa: “There was a problem with the requested skill’s response”.

If Alexa responds with “there was a problem with the requested skill’s response” instead of carrying out the job, it means Alexa is facing error 701.

It’s because your skill terminated the session as there was a problem with the response it returned. This indicates that the return answer from your skill was faulty, leading to error 701.

Alexa: “Unable to reach the requested skill”.

If you ask Alexa a question like launching or opening a skill, her normal response is to perform that operation. It can be anything like setting the alarm or streaming music.

But if Alexa responds with “unable to reach the requested skill,” it is another sign of Alexa error 701. In this case, Alexa will attempt to process your query, but the session will be terminated.

Alexa: “Hmm, I don’t know that”.

Even if you ask the trickiest questions, Alexa will reply with something fun or amusing. But random responses like “hmm, I don’t know that” state error 701.

When Alexa cannot interpret the input outside of a skill, she will respond with this error message. It’s because Alexa fails to understand what you are asking for or which skill to use.

Alexa: error tone

An audio-only response comprising an error tone is another sign of Alexa error 701. An error tone will appear when Alexa cannot identify what you just said to an utterance in your interaction model.

In this case, Alexa will respond to you in an error tone. It means she could not securely match your words to the parameters you had set in your interaction model.

Alexa: empty/null response

One of the many reasons Alexa gives a null response is error 701. When you ask Alexa a question, it may happen that your speech might never fully load. So, you might not get a response, and Alexa does not attempt to answer the query.

4 Causes of Alexa Error 701

Error 701 is one of the most common issues you can face while using Amazon Alexa. Many reasons, like device, internet, or connectivity problems, can cause this error. This can also occur when you are trying to connect a device with Alexa that is not compatible.

Let’s have a closer look at these causes so that you can know how to fix Alexa error 701 100%:

Weak WiFi Signals

One of the main reasons for this error is the weak internet connection. An unstable connection will impact Alexa’s performance. It’s because Amazon Alexa is entirely reliable on WiFi and data networks.

Alexa will have trouble connecting and responding to your voice command if your router or connection is facing some problems.

Software Issues

Alexa error 701 can also occur when your device software cannot process the voice commands. This can be due to outdated software. These days Amazon is coming out with new updates to improve the performance of their devices. So, it’s important to check all your device updates to ensure it runs at its best.

A dated software will cause Alexa to lag, and it won’t be able to respond to the input. To avoid this issue, frequently update your Alexa device’s software. It will help ensure optimal device performance and responsiveness.

Problems with Hardware

Sometimes the error may occur due to problems in the device hardware. The device might have faulty firmware, or it might have a short circuit of some loose wire or any other issues that can lead to Alexa error 701.

So, take the device to a certified technician or contact customer support for help diagnosing and fixing the issue. Trying to fix hardware issues on your own can lead to further damage and void any warranty that may be in place.

Router or Modem issues

Internet issues are the leading cause of error 701. Suppose the WiFi signals in your area are weak or your router is facing some issues connected with the main server. Both of these will affect the functioning of Alexa.

Internet issues are the leading cause of error 701. Suppose the WiFi signals in your area are weak or your router is facing issues with the main server. Both of these will affect the functioning of Alexa.

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5 Ways to Fix Alexa Error 701

Let’s look into various ways on how to fix Alexa error 701.

Method 1: Restart the Device

When Alexa shows error 701, the first thing to do is restart the device. All the system memory registers get refreshed by a restart, making the device ready for a fresh start. Restarting your device more frequently will keep it operating at peak performance.

You can restart your Alexa device whether it is battery-enabled or not. Let’s see how to do that. 

• Remove the power adapter or your device from the socket. Wait for at least 30 seconds and reconnect the device to restart Alexa.
• You can restart removable battery-powered gadgets by taking out and reinserting the batteries.

After restarting the device, please wait for it to connect to a network. Then try asking a question to test if the error 701 has been resolved.

Method 2: Check the WiFi Connection

A stable WiFi connection is important for Alexa devices to function effectively. When you talk to Alexa, an audio recording of your request or instruction is sent to Amazon’s cloud over your WiFi connection.

Make sure the router is functioning correctly. Also, look for wires if they are appropriately connected. 

You could try doing a power cycle if the router seems to malfunction. Just disconnect the router from the main power supply and wait a while before connecting it back in.

After restarting the network connection, wait for Alexa to connect it.

Method 3: Update Your Device

An outdated software is more likely to face Alexa error 701. Usually, saying “Check for software updates” straight to Alexa will update it. But because Alexa may not respond in error 701, you should update your device manually.

First, check if your device is running on the latest software. Here’s how to do that.

• Open the Alexa App on your phone.

• Navigate to the More tab.

• Tap Settings.

• Scroll down and find About.

• In the About section, look for the App Version.

• Compare the app version to the latest Alexa software available.

If your device is outdated, here is how you can update it to the latest software. 

• Make sure your device is switched on and connected to WiFi.
• Look for the mute button on your device. You can recognize the mute button by a circle or a microphone with a strikethrough.
• Wait a few seconds until the light becomes red, indicating the mute function is on.
• Again wait for a few minutes. If an update is required, Alexa will announce it before initiating the installation. After finishing, the device will restart using the most recent firmware.

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Method 4: Clear Cache on Your Alexa Device

Files residing in your Alexa device for a long time can become corrupt. If you do not remove them, they can cause the gadget to face Alexa error 701. In such a case, clearing Alexa’s memory can help run the device optimally. Here’s how you can do that.

• Open the Alexa App.

• Navigate to the More tab.

• Select Settings.

• Go to Alexa Privacy.

• Once opened, tap Review Voice History.

• Here, you will find a list of everything you have asked Alexa. You can tap the arrow next to the question > Delete recording.

Method 5: Reset Your Alexa Device

If nothing works, a factory reset might solve error 701. But remember that resetting will erase all the data from your Alexa device. This will include any personal information and settings you have done on the device.

Let’s see how to reset your Alexa device.

• Make sure your Alexa device is on and connected to WiFi.
• Press and hold the action button for about 25 seconds.
• Wait until the light ring turns off. When it automatically turns on after a few seconds, release the button.
• Again wait for a few seconds until the light ring becomes orange.
• The screen will show various instructions to set up your device. It will indicate that your Alexa device has been reset successfully. After that, you should follow the on-screen instructions to set it up again.

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4 Tips to Prevent Alexa Error 701

Errors like these can impact the performance of your device. If not fixed on time, they can also lead to an unsatisfying experience.

So, here are some tips to help you prevent any such errors in the future and ensure that your device runs smoothly.

Update your software regularly

Frequent updates are necessary for the device to work at its total capacity. These updates ensure the proper functioning of your device and prevent security breaches.

So, automatic updates on your Alexa are good to avoid missing important updates. Besides, regular updates also bring new features to enhance your experience with Alexa.

Keep a check on Hardware

Besides software updates, taking care of your device’s exterior surface is also important. Regular cleaning and avoiding exposure to extreme temperatures or moisture are essential. It can help extend your device’s lifespan.

Firmware malfunctions can also lead to connectivity problems and cause Error 701. So, make sure your Alexa has updated Hardware.

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Clean the device history

Alexa’s voice history can fill up over time, affecting its performance. You must delete old voice recordings routinely to help avoid mistakes. Frequently deleting old voice recordings also protects user privacy and prevents functional errors. It also avoids security breaches by minimizing personal data stored on the device.

So, reviewing and managing voice history settings frequently helps optimal performance and security.

Proper device placement

If your device is far from the router, it will have trouble connecting. Besides, lousy placement will also cause the device to malfunction. It’s because the gadget won’t be able to recognize voice commands properly.

Consider using a WiFi extender or moving the router closer to the device. This will help improve the connection between Alexa and the router. Plus, ensure no physical obstructions between the device and the router.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Different reasons like network issues, outdated software, or corrupted files can cause the Alexa error 701. You can fix it quickly by checking WiFi, updating the device, removing cache files, and restarting it. As a last resort, you can also try factory resetting the gadget. Following these methods will likely solve the issue. But if it doesn’t, we recommend contacting Amazon customer support for further help. They can better help track the error and provide practical ways to fix it.

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