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Ugh, the QR code setup can be so finicky! You're definitely not alone in having trouble with this—it's honestly one of the most common complaints people have about setting up the newer Echo Dots. The good news is that it's usually something simple causing the problem.
Nine times out of ten, it's a lighting issue:
This happens more than you'd think:
Sometimes the Alexa app just needs a kick in the pants:
Don't panic! You can totally skip the whole QR code thing:
If nothing's working and you're getting frustrated:
Amazon's QR code setup is supposed to make things easier, but when it doesn't work, it's actually more annoying than the old method. The manual setup works just fine and honestly isn't that much more complicated—you just type in your Wi-Fi password like you would with any other device.
Don't let a stubborn QR code ruin your day! Skip it and get your Echo Dot working the old-fashioned way. Once it's set up, you'll forget all about the setup drama anyway.
Nope, no 3.5mm port on the Echo Dot 5th generation, and honestly, this is probably the biggest bummer about the newer models. If you're coming from an older Dot where you could just plug in your favorite speakers, this change is going to sting a bit.
Amazon started removing the 3.5mm port with the 4th generation back in 2020, and they kept it gone for the 5th gen. So if you have a 3rd generation or older, you got lucky with that port!
Had the port: 1st, 2nd, and 3rd generation Echo Dots Don't have the port: 4th and 5th generation Echo Dots
Look, I get why they did it, even if I don't love it:
But still... sometimes you just want to plug something in!
Most people end up using Bluetooth speakers anyway, and it works pretty well:
If you already have speakers you love:
If wired audio is really important to you:
Is it annoying? Yeah, especially if you had a perfect setup with your 3rd gen Dot. But most people adapt pretty quickly. Bluetooth has gotten really good, and the convenience of wireless usually wins out.
If you're super attached to your wired speakers, you might want to hunt down a 3rd generation Echo Dot while they're still available, or just bite the bullet and get a Bluetooth adapter for your existing speakers.
The Echo Dot 5th generation is a great device, but Amazon definitely made this decision with wireless users in mind.
Amazon really stepped up their game with the Echo Dot 5th generation's sound quality! If you've been using an older Dot and wondering if the upgrade is worth it, the answer is a resounding yes.
The Speaker Got Bigger Amazon managed to fit a larger driver into the same compact size, and wow, what a difference it makes. We're talking about roughly double the volume output compared to the 4th generation, and that's before you even get into the quality improvements.
Smarter Audio Processing They completely rewrote the software that handles audio processing. Think of it like getting a better DJ who knows exactly how to make your music sound good through this particular speaker.
You'll immediately notice the difference. The bass actually has some presence now (not subwoofer level, but way better), and Alexa's voice sounds so much clearer. Plus, you can actually turn it up loud enough to hear across the room without it sounding terrible.
This is like going from a transistor radio to a decent Bluetooth speaker. The improvement is honestly impressive for such a small device.
Perfect for:
Pretty good for:
Still not great for:
Look, it's still an Echo Dot—it's not going to replace your soundbar or bookshelf speakers. But for what it is (a compact smart assistant that also plays music), Amazon finally made one that doesn't sound like it's coming through a tin can.
If you're using it mainly for smart home control and the occasional podcast, you're going to love the upgrade. And if music is important to you but you're tight on space, this little guy will actually surprise you with how decent it sounds now.
The biggest win? You can finally have a conversation with Alexa without having to stand right next to it or shout across the room!
No, the Echo Dot 5th generation doesn't include a built-in Zigbee hub, and you're definitely not alone in wondering about this. It's honestly one of the most common questions people have when trying to figure out which Echo device to buy for their smart home.
Amazon keeps the Echo Dot compact and affordable by leaving out some features you'll find in their bigger devices. Think of it this way: the Echo Dot is like the starter car in a lineup—it gets you where you need to go without all the premium features.
The devices that DO have Zigbee hubs:
The ones that don't:
Not having Zigbee doesn't mean you can't build an awesome smart home with your Echo Dot! You've actually got plenty of options that work just as well.
Tons of smart devices these days connect straight to your Wi-Fi—no hub needed:
If you fall in love with a particular brand that needs a hub, you can always add one:
Many devices work through their manufacturer's Alexa Skill. Just enable the skill in your Alexa app, and you're good to go.
Here's what actually works well in practice:
Start simple with a few Wi-Fi smart plugs or smart bulbs. They'll connect right to your Echo Dot, and you can say things like "Alexa, turn on the living room lamp." Once you get comfortable with that, you can branch out to other devices.
Pro tip: Stick with one brand when you're starting out. It makes everything way more reliable and easier to manage.
Your Echo Dot might not have Zigbee, but it's still going to make your home feel pretty magical!
Sony has taken the unusual step of suspending distribution of its latest firmware update for the popular a7 IV mirrorless camera. Firmware version 6.00, which was recently made available to users, has been pulled from distribution after reports of widespread malfunctions.
According to Sony, the firmware update can cause significant instability on some a7 IV cameras. While the company has not detailed the specific nature of the malfunctions, the decision to suspend the update suggests the issues are serious enough to warrant immediate action.
The a7 IV, released as a versatile full-frame mirrorless camera aimed at both photography and video enthusiasts, has been a popular model in Sony's Alpha lineup. Firmware updates typically bring improvements and new features, but version 6.00 appears to have introduced problems rather than enhancements.
Camera owners who have already installed firmware 6.00 may be experiencing instability issues with their devices. Those who have not yet updated should avoid doing so until Sony releases a corrected version or provides further guidance.
The suspension remains in effect as Sony works to address the problems. The company has confirmed awareness of the issue but has not yet announced a timeline for when a fixed version of the firmware will be available.
This incident highlights the potential risks of firmware updates, even from major manufacturers. Users are advised to monitor Sony's official channels for updates on when a stable version of the firmware will be released. In the meantime, a7 IV owners should continue using their current firmware version and hold off on any updates until Sony provides the all-clear.
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