Own an Echo Studio, Echo Dot, or Ring Floodlight Cam? Amazon's Sidewalk network is designed to extend the range of low-bandwidth devices like smart speakers and trackers. It allows your devices to connect via neighbors' networks if yours drops, and improves efficiency for trackers like Tile.
Sidewalk leverages Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), the 900 MHz spectrum, and other frequencies to simplify device setup, boost low-bandwidth range, and keep devices online beyond home Wi-Fi. This works by sharing connectivity among compatible nearby devices.
Sidewalk activates automatically on June 8 (Tile on June 14) for eligible devices, including: Ring Floodlight Cam (2019), Ring Spotlight Cam Wired (2019), Ring Spotlight Cam Mount (2019), Echo (3rd gen+), Echo Dot (3rd gen+), Echo Dot for Kids (3rd gen+), Echo Dot with Clock (3rd gen+), Echo Plus (all gens), Echo Show (all models/gens), Echo Spot, Echo Studio, Echo Input, and Echo Flex.
Privacy concerns have surfaced regarding data sharing. Amazon's white paper details customer data protections. If you'd prefer not to join this community network, opt out via the Alexa or Ring app before activation. Here's how, based on our hands-on testing with these devices.
Opting out won't impact your devices' performance, per Amazon. To re-enable or adjust later, revisit the Amazon Sidewalk page. There, you can also disable "Community Search," which shares approximate device locations for better Tile accuracy—toggle it off separately if desired.
Pro tip: One user reported re-activation in the Ring app after opting out via Alexa. Double-check both apps periodically, especially if you use multiple devices.
Updated June 1, 2021, 5:20 PM ET: Added Ring app instructions.
