Amazon Sidewalk: Cool new technology or a security risk?
Alexa, Ring users can opt out of Amazon’s internet-sharing network.
Amazon Sidewalk networks can overlap so close neighbors devices can still operate when their internet connection goes down.(Rossman, James)
6:00 AM on Jun 10, 2021 CDT
If you own an Amazon Echo Alexa voice assistant or Ring doorbell or camera, I’m hoping you’ve at least heard of a new technology from Amazon called Sidewalk, which is drawing a bit of controversy.
Amazon Sidewalk shares a small portion of your internet service with Amazon devices and third-party gadgets that partner with Amazon in areas outside your home.
If dad s on Team Android, device trackers from Tile are a top alternative to Apple s AirTag. With a loud speaker, a durable body, and excellent connectivity, the Tile Pro is the best tracker for Android users. All Tile trackers work on both Android and iOS, though, if you re not quite ready for Cupertino to track your every move.Tile Pro Review
For Power-Hungry Apple Fans
4.0
If dad s an Apple guy, free him from the tangle of cords on his desk or bedside table, and level up with the Belkin Boost Up Charge Pro, a MagSafe charging stand that can juice up two Apple products at once. It s the perfect gift for anyone with an iPhone 12 and a pair of AirPods.Belkin Boost Up Charge Pro 2-in-1 Wireless Charger Stand with MagSafe Review
Non-replaceable battery
If you’ve ever found yourself searching for your remote or your child s favorite toy, the Tile Sticker ($39.99 for a two-pack) is for you. This tiny and low-cost tracker affixes to just about any non-porous surface and has a battery that will last for years. However, its limited range and spotty connectivity mean it s best suited for inexpensive items that you re most likely to misplace in your car or home. For just a few more dollars per tracker, go with the capable Tile Mate, or upgrade to the Tile Pro, our Editors Choice for Android-compatible trackers; both can be stuck onto objects with adhesive pads that Tile sells separately. If you have an iPhone, the Apple AirTag is your best bet.
App doesn’t offer precise location data
If you’re constantly searching for your keys as you rush out the door, the Tile Pro ($24.99) is the answer to your problems. This durable tracker has the best range of any Tile we’ve tested and a speaker that is loud enough to hear just about anywhere. If you re an Android fan and envying the Apple AirTag (our favorite tracker for iPhone users), the Tile Pro is your best bet. It surpasses the Samsung Galaxy SmartTag to be the best Android-compatible tracker we ve tested and our Editors Choice.
Design
The Tile Pro is a square tracker that measures 1.7 by 1.7 by 0.3 inches (HWD). It’s available in black, blue, pink, red, and white.
Less durable than the Tile Pro
Apple’s new AirTag ($29) is getting a lot of attention, but Tile has been in the tracker game for many years. The Tile Mate ($24.99), which was revamped in 2020, comes in a close second to the Tile Pro ($34.99). The primary difference is the Mate s all-plastic body, which isn t quite as sturdy as the Pro s metal frame but is still pretty durable. The AirTag is our Editors Choice for iPhone users, and the Pro is our all-around top pick for Android, but the modestly priced Mate provides excellent value for money.
Design
The Mate is a small plastic square that measures 1.4 by 1.4 by 0.3 inches (HWD). It s slightly smaller than the Tile Pro, but it seems larger because it doesn t have tapered edges.