If your SwitchBot Bot isn't pressing buttons properly, won't connect via Bluetooth, or isn't working with your smart home system, this guide covers the most common problems and solutions.
Bot Not Pressing Buttons
When the SwitchBot Bot doesn't activate:
- Check battery level - replace CR2 battery if low
- Ensure the Bot is properly positioned on the button/switch
- Verify the mounting adhesive is secure
- Check that the arm can move freely without obstruction
- Clean the adhesive surface and reattach if slipping
- Adjust the arm angle for optimal button contact
Bluetooth Connection Problems
When the Bot won't connect to your phone:
- Ensure Bluetooth is enabled on your phone
- Move closer to the Bot (within 30 feet)
- Force close the SwitchBot app and reopen
- Toggle Bluetooth off and on again
- Remove the Bot from the app and re-add it
- Check for interference from other Bluetooth devices
Remote/Cloud Control Not Working
If you can't control the Bot outside Bluetooth range:
- A SwitchBot Hub Mini or Hub 2 is required for remote control
- Ensure your Hub is online and connected to WiFi
- Verify the Bot is linked to the Hub in the app
- Check your internet connection
- Restart the Hub if remote commands aren't working
- Re-link the Bot to the Hub if connection is lost
Press and Hold Mode Not Working
When long press mode fails:
- Verify Press and Hold mode is enabled in device settings
- Adjust the hold duration in the app
- Check that the Bot arm has enough clearance for extended movement
- Ensure the button being pressed can handle sustained pressure
- Test with a shorter hold duration first
Switch Mode vs Press Mode Issues
Understanding the two operation modes:
- Press Mode - Bot presses and releases (for buttons)
- Switch Mode - Bot toggles position and stays (for switches)
- Use Press mode for doorbell buttons, coffee makers, etc.
- Use Switch mode for light switches, rocker switches
- Add the switch attachment for Switch mode operation
- Check mode setting matches your use case
Integration with Voice Assistants
When Alexa or Google Home won't control the Bot:
- A SwitchBot Hub is required for voice assistant integration
- Enable the SwitchBot skill in Alexa or Google Home app
- Link your SwitchBot account to the voice assistant
- Discover devices after linking the skill
- Ensure the Bot has a simple name Alexa can understand
- Try renaming the Bot if voice commands don't work
Scheduling and Automation Issues
If schedules aren't triggering:
- A Hub is required for scheduled operations
- Check that schedules are enabled in the app
- Verify the time zone is set correctly
- Ensure the Bot is connected to the Hub
- Delete and recreate problematic schedules
- Check for conflicting automation rules
Weak Press Force
When the Bot doesn't press hard enough:
- Replace the CR2 battery with a fresh one
- Reposition the Bot closer to the button center
- Check that nothing is limiting the arm movement
- Ensure the mounting surface is stable
- The Bot may not work with very stiff buttons
- Consider using multiple Bots for heavy switches
Factory Reset
For persistent issues:
- Press and hold the button on the Bot for 15 seconds
- Wait for the indicator to flash rapidly
- Remove the Bot from the SwitchBot app
- Re-add the Bot as a new device
- Reconfigure mode settings and schedules
- Re-link to Hub if using remote control