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How to Customize Echo Show Backgrounds

The Amazon Echo Show is a smart display that allows you to not only interact with Alexa using your voice, but also visually through the touchscreen. One great way to personalize your Echo Show is by changing the default background images to photos, art, or other graphics that you prefer.

Why Customize the Background?

The default backgrounds on the Echo Show are fairly basic and generic. By customizing the background, you can give your Echo Show some personality and make it feel more integrated into your home decor. Some reasons you may want to change the background include:

  • Displaying personal photos of your family, pets, artwork, etc.
  • Matching your Echo Show to your home’s aesthetic or color scheme
  • Setting holiday-themed or seasonal backgrounds
  • Showcasing your interests with backgrounds related to sports teams, TV shows, hobbies, etc.

How to Change the Echo Show Background

Changing the background image on your Echo Show is an easy process that can be done directly on the device or through the Alexa app.

Using the Echo Show Screen

  1. Swipe down from the top of your Echo Show screen to access the settings menu.
  2. Select Home & Clock.
  3. Choose Clock.
  4. Tap on the background theme you want, such as Personal Photos, Photography, Modern, etc.
    • Each theme has several different background options to choose from.
  5. Select the specific background image you want and tap the check mark ✅ to set it.

Using the Alexa App

You can also customize Echo Show backgrounds using the Alexa app on your smartphone:

  1. Open the Alexa app.
  2. Tap Devices in the bottom menu.
  3. Select your Echo Show from the list.
  4. Tap Home & Clock.
  5. Choose Photo Display.
  6. Select a photo from your phone’s gallery to upload.
  7. Tap Choose Image when finished.

The background you selected should now display on your Echo Show!

Tips for Customizing the Background

  • You can upload a single static photo or enable a photo rotation slideshow.
  • Be sure the main subject of your photo is clear and not obscured if placing text or images over it.
  • For custom images, choose those with resolutions suitable for your Echo Show’s screen size.
  • Set the background brightness appropriately so main interface text is still readable.
  • Refresh your background seasonally or for holidays to keep it feeling updated.

Here are some other background customization options to try:

  • Display your Amazon Photos: Enable access to show photos stored in your Amazon cloud account.
  • Add custom themes: Choose from categories like Playful, Photography, and Classic to find fun new backgrounds.
  • Make your own slideshows: Upload multiple photos to rotate automatically.

Match Your Echo Show Interface

In addition to the background image, you can customize other elements of your Echo Show’s interface:

Set the Clock Face

Echo Show has a variety of stylish clock designs to set as your main clock face, with options to show additional info like weather and date.

To change the clock face:

  1. Swipe down and tap Settings
  2. Select Home & Clock
  3. Tap Clock
  4. Browse clock designs and tap one to preview
  5. Tap the ✅ checkmark to set it

Organize Home Cards

Home cards display useful information like weather, calendar events, and smart home controls.

To customize which cards show:

  1. Tap Settings
  2. Choose Home & Clock
  3. Select Home Cards
  4. Toggle cards on or off to add/remove them

Matching your clock, background, and home cards creates a unified Echo Show experience.

Explore Additional Personalization

Beyond backgrounds and the home screen interface, there are a few other ways to tailor your Echo Show:

  • Enable Alexa VoiceView screen reader for accessibility
  • Add “sticky notes” for reminders
  • Set up household profiles so Alexa recognizes individual users’ preferences
  • Limit screen time for kids
  • Install skills to add new functionality

Personalizing your Echo Show helps make the device feel more integrated into your home rather than just a gadget on your counter. Take some time to explore the various customization options – combining your favorite background, clock face, and home cards can make your Echo Show feel uniquely yours.

Conclusion

With just a few taps on your Echo Show screen or in the Alexa app, you can change the default background to an image much more to your liking. Whether you want to use personal photos, fun themes, or holiday-inspired designs, customizing the background is an easy way to make your Echo Show feel more personal.

Matching other elements like the clock, home cards, and overall brightness or color scheme can also help your Echo Show better fit into your home’s style. Don’t be afraid to get creative and swap out backgrounds seasonally or for special events. The ability to customize your Echo Show’s look and feel helps differentiate it from just another piece of technology in your home.

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