If you have an Amazon Echo device or a Ring camera or doorbell your device will become part of a nationwide network called Amazon Sidewalk on June 8.
According to Amazon, Amazon Sidewalk is a shared network that helps devices work better. Operated by Amazon at no charge to customers, Sidewalk can help simplify new device setup, extend the low-bandwidth working range of devices to help find pets or valuables with Tile trackers, and help devices stay online even if they are outside the range of their home WIFI. In the future, Sidewalk will support a range of experiences from using Sidewalk-enabled devices, such as smart security and lighting and diagnostics for appliances and tools.
The Sidewalk will get switched on June 8 and you’ll be automatically opted in on all eligible devices. Devices include Ring Floodlight Cam, Ring Spotlight Cam Wired, Ring Spotlight Cam Mount, Echo, Echo Dot, Echo Dot for Kids, Echo Dot with Clock, Echo Plus, Echo Show, Echo Spot, Echo Studio, Echo Input, and Echo Flex.
Amazon has a white paper available informing customers on how their information and privacy is protect, but if you would rather not participate in this Sidewalk you can opt out before June 8:
USING THE ALEXA APP
- In your Amazon Alexa app, select the “More” icon at the lower right hand corner of the screen
- Go to “Settings” > “Account Setting” > “Amazon Sidewalk.” (If you’re not connected to any Echo or Ring devices, you might not see this option.)
- Use the toggle to disable Sidewalk
USING THE RING APP
- In your Ring app, go into your Control Center by tapping the the three-lined icon in the upper left-hand corner of the screen
- Select “Sidewalk” and use the slide button to opt out
- You’ll be ask to confirm your opt-out. You can opt back in the same way.
According to Amazon, opting out will not affect the function of your devices.
