Amazon (Nasdaq: AMZN) has opened up its low-bandwidth network, Amazon Sidewalk, for developer testing.
First launched in 2021, the low-power, wide-area network (LPWAN) connects various devices with a secure and low-cost cloud connection. It doesn’t compete with your internet and mobile data provider, what it does is free up some precious bandwidth by letting less data-guzzling devices — like your Ring cameras and Level smart locks — connect for free.
“We’ve rapidly built out a long-range, low-bandwidth network that now covers more than 90% of the U.S. population, and this is an open invitation for developers to put it to the test,” said Dave Limp, senior vice president of Amazon Devices & Services.
“Many types of connected devices have been limited by the range of Wi-Fi and the cost of cellular technology, which has hindered the ability to connect devices like environmental sensors, leak detectors, and smart locks. Sidewalk is designed to provide a secure, low-cost way to invent and connect a whole new range of devices, and we can’t wait to see what developers build.”
Developers can use the technology, tools, and resources provided by Amazon Sidewalk, AWS, and other silicon companies to build and onboard devices and cloud-based applications to Sidewalk. All they need to do is request a test kit from here.
The test kit regularly pings its location over the network to gauge if there’s sufficient signal strength in the area to deploy a product. It updates clear signal strength readings on a map within a developer portal.
Software Development Kits (SDKs) and Hardware Development Kits (HDKs) are now also available via top firms like Nordic Semiconductor, Silicon Labs, and Texas Instruments. AWS IoT Core for Sidewalk lets developers access and configure their Sidewalk-enabled devices via an easy-to-use web interface and offers a broad range of AWS services developers are already familiar with.
As Sidewalk opens up to developers, customers will have a wide range of choices in the types of devices they can buy. A number of companies have already announced new Sidewalk-enabled devices that would be available later this year.
Netvox will introduce a multi-sensor that combines various sensors such as air conditioning monitoring, water leak detection, and state monitoring into a single device, OnAsset will introduce a new sensor that will provide logistics professionals with data on high-value shipments from delivery origin to destination, and Primax will introduce a smart door lock that will allow for easy installation and access to remote status monitoring, and remote door lock and unlock.
Information for this briefing was found via Amazon, the Verge, New York Times, and the sources and companies mentioned. The author has no securities or affiliations related to the organizations discussed. Not a recommendation to buy or sell. Always do additional research and consult a professional before purchasing a security. The author holds no licenses.
