With these new devices and developer tools, and the previously announced Silicon Labs Pro Kit for Amazon Sidewalk, Silicon Labs is enhancing its comprehensive development platform for Amazon's rapidly growing network. The new SoCs are generally available through Silicon Labs and its distributors.
The always-on, community-controlled Amazon Sidewalk network uses three different radios: Bluetooth LE for device provisioning and nearby device connectivity, sub-GHz FSK for connectivity up to one mile, and a proprietary CSS radio for very long distances. Most Amazon Sidewalk end devices support Bluetooth LE and one of the two long-range protocols: FSK or CSS. The SG28 includes two dual-band SoCs with radios for sub-GHz FSK and Bluetooth LE. The dual-band SG28 components help device manufacturers simplify their products and reduce costs by incorporating the two most commonly used Sidewalk end device radios into a single package, while the SG23 provides security and a robust sub-GHz link for devices at long-distance end nodes.
The Amazon Sidewalk developer program offers expert support to device makers.
Amazon Sidewalk opened to developers on March 28, 2023. While Amazon Sidewalk offered the advantage of an already established network at the time, it was also new, and developers needed training on how best to build devices for it.
Silicon Labs took this into account, which is why they worked directly with Amazon to create the Amazon Sidewalk Developer Program. Through 12 steps organized into three phases, this program guides developers through the entire process, from determining if their target geographic region is covered by Amazon Sidewalk to device deployment and ongoing on-the-ground support. All steps are explained through technical documentation, videos, and code samples, with the option to contact a Silicon Labs expert for support. Silicon Labs provides all the necessary tools for each step, and by following the developer program, device manufacturers are well-positioned to achieve Amazon Web Services and Amazon Sidewalk certification and approval.
