Alexa Sidewalk Internet sharing - UK customers emailed by mistake

[Davit2005]

Sidewalk essentially allows a neighbour's internet connection as a backup for devices such as Alexa speakers and Ring security cameras.

 

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-55059696

 

Yeah I was one of these people who got the email.

 

Whilst it's nice to get up, go to bed or leave home and give one command to deal with CCTV, lights, etc. I'm still in 2 minds to junk Personal assistants, buy some cheap tablets and just use Home Assistant (or HASS.IO) instead. Currently have HomeAssistant tied into most of the smart home and setup to get Public Transport and Weather updates.

Edited December 2, 2020 by Davit2005

[mavhc]

Use the voice assistant to control HA

[Davit2005]

Use the voice assistant to control HA

 

Worth a thought.

 

HomeAssistant has ability to sense when specific WiFi clients (works with Unifi) are connected so that is another option at least for leaving/arriving home routines. Just got to remember when I leave my phone at home or the battery has run out or Wifi is off, Lol.

Edited December 2, 2020 by Davit2005

[mavhc]

Or when you have a visitor, and you leave and all the lights turn off while they sit there in the dark pleading with Alexa.