Huawei Singapore launches HUAWEI FreeBuds 3 Bluetooth earphones

Huawei Singapore has launched stereo Bluetooth earphones featuring the world’s first open-fit design with active noise cancellation, the HUAWEI FreeBuds 3.

Source: Huawei. Eager customers queue at SITEX to buy the HUAWEI FreeBuds 3 on November 30, 2019.

In the lead-up to the new year, Huawei is making strides to provide a holistic product ecosystem for its customers in Singapore to experience seamless interconnectivity between smartphone and other devices including the new Huawei Watch GT 2 and Gentle Monster – Huawei Eyewear.

The HUAWEI FreeBuds 3 were unveiled globally in September during IFA 2019 in Berlin and feature:

World’s 1st dual-mode Bluetooth 5.1 system-on-a-chip allows users to enjoy a stable and fast Bluetooth connection, as well as accurate audio and video synchronisation.

Active noise cancellation.

Intuitive controls: Double tap on the right earphone to play/ switch music. Double tap on the left earphone to turn on/ off active noise cancellation.

Aerodynamic mic duct that reduces wind noise efficiently at speeds of up to 20 km/h for better call quality.

Studio-quality audio with a 14 mm dynamic driver that delivers realistic acoustic sounds with a stronger bass.

Ergonomically-engineered. The dolphin bionic design is inspired by the natural curvature of the dolphin’s vocal cavity.

Up to four hours of non-stop playback on a single charge.

Huawei successfully launched of the Huawei Mate 30 Series earlier this month, which saw more than 200 handsets fly off the shelves on the first day of sale.

Details:



The S$238 HUAWEI FreeBuds 3 are offered in two colours, Carbon Black and Ceramic White. 

The wireless HUAWEI FreeBuds 3 will be available at all local telecommunication operators, major consumer electronics/IT stores, at all Huawei Concept Stores and at the Huawei Flagship Store on Lazada. Customers can also enjoy one-year warranty with every purchase of the HUAWEI FreeBuds 3.

Nakamichi launches two Bluetooth speakers

Nakamichi, the Japanese high fidelity audio company, has launched two new Bluetooth speakers – the Nakamichi Music One+ Wireless Bluetooth speaker and the Nakamichi Music Element Wireless Bluetooth speaker.

Source: Nakamichi. The Nakamichi Music One+ Bluetooth speaker.

The Nakamichi Music One+ mimicks the design of a table lamp. The smallest audio details are captured through a custom-tuned digital signal processor (DSP).

Product features and specifications:

• Hands-free speaker phone function;
• AUX 3.5mm stereo port;
• Bluetooth technology for music streaming;
• Simple pairing Near Field Communication (NFC);
• Frequency response: 80Hz to 20KHz;
• Accessories included: Audio cable, power adapter, remote control;
• Dimensions: Approximately 288mm x 187mm x 188mm.

Source: Nakamichi. The Nakamichi Music Element Bluetooth speaker.

The rectangular Nakamichi Music Element Bluetooth speaker hints of a vintage radio box, but with the modern innards. The Music Element adopts Nakamichi’s revolutionary TAIKO Bass Booster. a unique arrangement of the frequencies in each audio note. The speaker also comes with a handy USB charging function.

Product features and specifications:

• USB recharging mobile phone and digital device;
• Hands-free speaker phone function;
• Voice promote and easy to pair;
• Simple pairing near field communication (NFC);
• Bluetooth technology for music streaming;
• AUX 3.5mm stereo port;
• MicroSD slot;
• Accessories included: Audio cable, power adapter;
• Frequency response: 50Hz – 20KHz;
• Dimensions: Approximately 350mm x 117mm x 160mm.

Interested?

The Nakamichi Music One+ Wireless Bluetooth speaker retails for S$299 with GST. The Nakamichi Music Element Wireless Bluetooth speaker retails for S$239 with GST.

Both Nakamichi speakers are available at all Sprint-Cass outlets, select Challenger stores, Mobile City, Million Tech, Mustafa Centre, and SE IT Solutions. For the full list of stores, check Facebook

Plantronics Voyager 5200 UC Bluetooth Headset come with Windsmart technology

Source: Plantronics. The Plantronics Voyager 5200.

Plantronics, a wearable technology provider, has announced the new Plantronics Voyager 5200. The high-performance Bluetooth headset is built for use with unified communications applications and connects to PCs, tablets or smartphones for clear, professional phone or PC calls even in challenging situations.

The Voyager 5200 UC features WindSmart technology, a Plantronics innovation that incorporates six layers of technology to detect noise caused by wind and respond accordingly. WindSmart technology combats background noises such as weather, traffic and surrounding conversations so calls come through clearly. The headset also features up to seven hours of talk time on a single charge, HD Voice support over wideband networks, and a design that blends style with all-day comfort.

"Today's workforce is constantly on the move, which means unified communications is really happening from a variety of locations, not just from a desk in an office," said Rich Costello, Senior Research Analyst, IDC. "The Plantronics Voyager 5200 UC is ideal for this mobile user and delivers some terrific audio innovation, most particularly WindSmart technology, that ensures people can make calls from the noisiest environments and still sound professional and be productive even on the go."

Voyager 5200 UC includes the BT600 Class 1 USB Bluetooth adapter and a
portable charging case* with integrated docking stand which serves as both a protective and charging case that provides up to 14 hours of additional talk time on the go, and a grab-and-go dock for recharging the headset.

Features include:

* Four adaptive microphones and proprietary digital signal processing (DSP) work together to reduce
disruptive background noise.

* Multifunction button mutes calls and provides access to Siri and other smartphone virtual personal assistants handsfree when the headset is idle.

* Work across smartphones, laptops, tablets, and Bluetooth-enabled desk phones from up to 30m away.

* Smart sensor technology intuitively routes call audio to your phone or headset, pauses media or rejects an incoming call when removed, and automatically answers calls as you place the headset on your ear.

* Spill, splash, and sweat-proof P2i nano-coating.

* Mute assurance alerts users if they talk when muted, with visual mute indictors shown on both the BT600 USB Bluetooth adapter and desktop screen.

* Manage settings, wirelessly update firmware and activate Find
MyHeadset to locate a misplaced headset with the Plantronics Hub
smartphone app for iOS and Android.

* Use Plantronics Hub desktop software to enable softphone call control
across a wide range of UC applications, to view headset battery metre,
change languages, update firmware, or personalise settings and alerts.

With Plantronics Manager Pro, an additional service, IT can remotely
monitor, manage, and maintain Voyager 5200 UC headsets as well as other headsets from Plantronics company-wide. By using Plantronics Manager Pro, IT can configure the user experience, manage firmware deployments and use predictive analytics to detect compatibility issues
before they are noticed.

Interested?

The Plantronics Voyager 5200 UC with charging case and BT600 USB Bluetooth adapter is available from authorised Plantronics resellers starting at a MSRP of S$339. The Plantronics Voyager 5200 is also available starting at a MSRP of S$199, and the accompanying charging case is available for S$69.

*Available with selected models.

http://www.plantronics.com/asia/.

posted from Bloggeroid

Samsonite announces the suitcase that will always tell you where it is

Samsonite has introduced the Track&Go suitcase that is likely to reduce luggage theft by ensuring the suitcase can always be identified, similar to the way prank calls disappeared after caller ID was introduced. 

The suitcase contains a Bluetooth beacon which uses Eddystone Ephemeral Identifiers (EIDs), an open privacy/security protocol by Google. Designed and manufactured by Accent Systems, the beacon enables the Track&Go suitcase. It has to be registered by the owner through the Travlr by Samsonite app, which is available free of charge. The app was launched in September 2015 to offer flight tracking, tips and reminders when travelling. 

The new Track&Go feature will soon be built into the existing app, allowing users to easily check the location of the suitcase within a distance of 70m, and also be notified if it is being moved closer or further away from the user. Should the suitcase go missing, the owner can easily flag it as lost in the app. Once flagged as 'lost', the app leverages its user base to help the suitcase's owner find it. Should anyone else, using the app, pass within 70 m of a lost suitcase, an EID-based signal is picked up and triggers a notification with location and time details of the suitcase to be sent out to the owner. 

According to Accent's web page, its Bluetooth low energy beacons can last up to about 100 months depending on the model and what it is used for.

"We're excited to work with Google on this project to make sure that our beacons support Eddystone EIDs. Missing or permanently lost luggage is the nightmare of every traveller. As the world's largest luggage manufacturer, we wanted to find a way to make this issue a thing of the past," says Ramesh Tainwala, CEO of Samsonite. "As Samsonite is known for its innovative and reliable luggage and bags, we also wanted to work with an equally as innovative and reliable technology partner.By leveraging Google's robust, secure and cross-platform approach, we feel confident that our customers will welcome this new solution."

Interested?

Samsonite aims to launch the first suitcases featuring the Track&Go solution in the European market at the end of 2016, followed by other international markets.

Altec Lansing Freedom True Wireless Bluetooth Earbuds feature noise isolation, GPS tracking

Source: Altec Lansing. The Freedom True Wireless
Bluetooth Earbuds have rechargeable lithium
ion batteries.

The new Altec Lansing Freedom True Wireless Bluetooth Earbuds, contain rechargeable lithium ion batteries built into the housings for a cordless experience.

The new buds also feature a six-hour battery life, IPX7-rated waterproof construction for perspiration-resistant wear, and Bluetooth-based GPS tracking technology to enable easy recovery of misplaced earbuds.

Scheduled for Q216 release at a manufacturer's suggested retail price of US$149.99, the Freedom buds will deliver Altec Lansing-quality sound reproduction along with noise isolation and a stay-in-place fit aided by small, medium and large Freebit ear tips to accommodate different ear shapes. As the units are not tethered to each other, users can use one earbud as a mono headset or both earbuds for stereo sound, depending on their listening environment.

The charging cradle/carrying case included in the package will provide a six-hour charge when plugged into a wall socket, a three-hour secondary charge when used remotely with no access to an electrical outlet, and the option to charge smartphones or other devices through the built-in USB port.

The GPS tracking ability will be activated through a downloadable companion app that will trigger a beep when a lost earbud is found. The app will also include volume, music and pairing controls, both to link earbuds for stereo use and to pair multiple devices with one-time setup so that users can switch from their smartphones to tablets or laptops without extra configuration.

Other features include:

A 100' (30.5m) Bluetooth signal range
An integrated microphone with wind cancellation enabling handsfree phone use
Song navigation/telephony buttons for track changes
Automatic shutdown to conserve battery power if no audio is detected
Support for any Bluetooth-enabled Apple, Android or BlackBerry phone or tablet or laptop
A choice of nine colours

Hashtag: #CES2016

Plantronics releases Voyager Focus UC Bluetooth headset with active noise cancellation

Source: Plantronics.

Plantronics, a global player in audio communications, has unveiled the Voyager Focus UC, which it says is the industry's first wireless Bluetooth stereo headset with active-noise cancellation (ANC) technology. 

A premium product for unified communications (UC) and multimedia applications, Voyager Focus UC was designed for enterprise workers in an open office or simply to reduce distraction. The headset provides all-day comfort and includes smart sensor technology, audio alerts, and wideband audio and hi-fi stereo sound. 

"No one can dispute the positive impact a great audio experience has on effective communications and collaboration," said Rich Costello, Senior Research Analyst, IDC. "But audio experiences are increasingly being challenged, especially as traditional office environments expand to include workers in more remote and non-traditional, open-office environments that introduce more external noise factors." 

The Voyager Focus UC headsets feature an immersive on-the-ear design to reduce high frequency noises like office sounds and background voices. Low frequency sounds, like noise from air conditioners, is reduced through ANC. In order to reduce the noise that is transmitted and overheard by others, three precisely-tuned microphones and noise-cancelling algorithms reduce noise caused by keyboard clatter, close-talkers, and movement, while optimising voice intelligibility. 

"We tried to think of every collaboration challenge and built a solution that solves for them. We created a premium design that will convey confidence and competence during a video call. We've used sensors and context to adapt the user experience to the wearing style and state so it just works as expected," said Bill Loewenthal, VP, enterprise solutions management, Plantronics. 

"But our real innovation is in the audio performance. We adapted our best-of-breed microphone technology with improved algorithms to ensure clarity of the user's voice, while suppressing background noises and tuning the audio listening profile to ensure that your favorite playlist sounds dynamic and impressive." 

Highlights include: 

• Class 1 Bluetooth with adaptive power to deliver up to 45m of wireless range while preserving battery life. 
• Dynamic Mute Alert technology - an industry first - senses speech and then alerts that the mute function is still active. Additionally, the headset will automatically mute when a user takes it off and unmute when it's put back on. 
• Leatherette ear cushions wrapped around pillow-soft memory foam deliver all-day comfort, while a cushioned metal headband provides durability and helps maintain a comfortable, secure fit. 
• On-board sensors create an intuitive user experience. Examples include answering a call by simply putting the headset on and pausing mobile audio when the headset is taken off, restarting it when replaced. 
• Rigorous testing of the Voyager Focus UC with the predominant collaboration solutions from Microsoft, Cisco, Avaya, and Huawei ensures the best possible experience when using these applications. 

Interested?

The Voyager Focus UC will be available in Singapore with a manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) of S$499. Check retail locations in Asia

Plantronics headsets to be controlled from Apple Watches and Android Wear wearables

Plantronics, an audio and wearable technology specialist, announced that the latest version of its Plantronics Hub for iOS and Android now supports the Apple Watch and Android Wear, broadening the company’s reach to include other devices within the growing mobile device ecosystem.

With the new smart watch extension, people can now manage the headset experience directly from their wrist. Plantronics Hub v3.5 for iOS and Android lets users manage, customise, and control premium Plantronics Bluetooth headsets, including Voyager Legend, Voyager Edge, and Voyager Focus UC. The controls include muting and unmuting the headset, volume control, battery status, and ending calls. 

Interested?

Plantronics Hub v3.5 for iOS and Android with smart watch support is free and available* now..

*Plantronics Hub for iOS requires iPhone 5, 5S, 5C, 6, 6 Plus and iOS 8.3; Plantronics for Android requires OS v2.3.3 and later

LOTS introduces Bluetooth earphones

Source: LOTS.

Say goodbye to tangled cables with the Bluetooth 4.0 LOTS LTB-2000
Up-beat earphones from Korea. At 13.2g, the S$99 earphones have a 10-metre operating distance from any music device, and are charged via USB.

LOTS has designed the earphones to be used anywhere. Sport ear cushions add stability during workouts while Comply foam tips provide maximum comfort. Both tips come in three sizes in each package.

Available in red, white and black, the earphones support AptX for high quality wireless sound. A three-button remote control on cable that allows direct, easy access to maneuvering between calls, volume control and music shuffling. LOTS says the earphones have a standby time of 150 hours or a continuous music playback time of five hours.

LOTS earphones can be found at selected Newstead and Epicentre stores in Singapore.

The Bluetooth Plantronics Explorer 500 headset comes with a magnetic USB charging strap

Source: Plantronics. The
Explorer 500.

Plantronics, a provider of audio communications and wearable technology, has launched the Plantronics Explorer 500, a compact, high-performance Bluetooth headset.

 "We know you have better things to do with your hands than hold on to your phone. Whether you're on the road, or juggling a briefcase and a latte on your walk to the office, Explorer 500 lets you harness the power of your smartphone, hands-free," said Jan Caldarella, Category Director, mobile communications solutions at Plantronics.

"We've designed the Explorer 500 to provide clear, life-like voice audio (letting you be more easily understood by your smartphone), even in noisy environments." 

The Explorer 500 combines contemporary design, GSMA-certified HD Voice and dual-mic noise reduction for clearer calls. The included magnetic strap can be fastened onto a keychain, purse, laptop bag or rearview mirror, and doubles as a USB charger.

Explorer 500 is for more than just phone calls. A touch of a button activates voice-control for smartphone assistants Siri, Google Now or Cortana, so users can harness the power of their smartphone hands-free and keep their device safe. With A2DP, stream music, catch up on podcasts or hear GPS directions on the go. The headset can even be customised with one of three included built-in languages for whispered alerts for power on/off, battery level and connection status.

The Plantronics Explorer 500 with USB charging strap is available in white and black for a manufacturer's suggested retail price of S$129 with GST.

Interested?

Here's a list of Asia outlets.

Jabra launches Stealth UC Bluetooth mono headset

Jabra, a manufacturer of intelligent audio solutions, has launched the Jabra Stealth UC Bluetooth mono headset, a unified communication (UC) evolution of its original Jabra Stealth, to support mobile workers.

As the lightest headset in its class at 0.24 ounces (about 6.8 g), the Jabra Stealth UC is both discreet and extremely portable. The headset has Skype for Business certification, and is designed for everyday use with a smartphone, tablets or laptop by inserting the pre-connected USB dongle.

“We strive to help the mobile worker gain the full benefits from both their mobile devices and UC solutions. It is our experience that one of the most important factors for users embracing unified communication is the headset, which bridges the gap between the user and the promise of increased efficiency and flexibility. The Jabra Stealth UC is the perfect device to provide this bridge and allows the user to stay in their conversation zone all day - everywhere.” says Mark Leigh, President, Asia Pacific, CC&O of Jabra.

“Jabra is excited about the announcement of Skype for Business as it aligns with Jabra’s New Ways of Working Vision which advocates using Jabra technology to improve collaboration and productivity. With the transition from Microsoft Lync to Skype for Business, Jabra is also pleased to announce that our entire portfolio of audio devices are certified Skype for Business and set to support the collaboration needs of our joint customers and partners,” said Leigh.

“We are pleased to see Jabra deliver Jabra Stealth UC/Microsoft solutions for Skype for Business to extend the communications experience and connect people everywhere to achieve more, together," said Giovanni Mezgec, GM, Skype for Business Product Marketing at Microsoft. 

The headset is available through authorised Jabra Business Solutions partners. Key features include:

· Bluetooth Class 4.0 provides up to 100 feet (about 30.5m) wireless range

· Dual Noise Blackout 3.0 noise-cancelling microphones to block off ambient background noise and HD Voice for crystal clear sound at both ends of the call

· Up to six hours talk-time

· Custom fit for optimal all-day comfort - changeable ultimate comfort ear gels and ear-hooks in small and large sizes

· Intelligent volume control automatically adapts to the sound environment and adjusts the sound in the speaker throughout your conversation.

· Near field communications (NFC) for easy pairing

· Voice control button to allow for remote activation of Siri, Google Now and Microsoft Cortana

· Available in UC and Microsoft Skype for Business certified variants

Plantronics launches new audio devices for communications, collaboration

Plantronics has announced new unified communications (UC) audio devices designed to deliver audio quality and noise management technology to help people effectively communicate and collaborate, regardless of workplace or location. 

Source: Plantronics. The
Blackwire 725.

"Everywhere is the new workplace. We know office noise is increasingly becoming a concern due to more open working environments that promote collaboration, but workplace noise isn't just a problem for those in the office," said Bill Loewenthal, VP, enterprise product solutions, Plantronics. 

"You can't always control your environment and you certainly can't control your caller's environment, so we help ensure workers have solutions they need to block out the noise, allowing them to have a high-quality communication experience wherever their workplace is." 

"There's been increasing emphasis on the importance of a reliable, high-quality, seamless user experience when communicating and collaborating today, and rightly so," said Rich Costello, Senior Research Analyst, unified communications, IDC. "The new Plantronics offerings not only address these important requirements, but also the surrounding noise factor on both sides of the call." 

Source: Plantronics. The Calisto
610.

The shift to open office environments and hot desks creates new noise challenges for individuals and their colleagues which can often undermine productivity gains. 

The following solutions address the inherent ambient noise challenges and potential audio quality concerns associated with today's smarter working scenarios and environments: 

The Blackwire 725 is the company's first UC stereo headset with active noise cancelling. It combines wideband audio, digital signal processing and a noise cancelling microphone in a corded option that is ideal for managing PC calls and listening to multimedia.

Source: Plantronics. The
Voyager UC
Bluetooth headset.

The Voyager Edge UC is a new addition to the Voyager family of Bluetooth headsets and comes with its own portable charging case. It boasts signature Plantronics audio technology that eliminates background noise and automatically answers calls once it is placed on the ear. The solution includes a small Bluetooth USB dongle that provides seamless wideband audio to a laptop. 

Source :Plantronics. The
Clarity 340.

The Calisto 610 is a corded portable speakerphone for instant anywhere conferencing. The USB speakerphone allows users to create on-the-go conference calls for small groups of people. It enables workers to hear remote participants with high-quality, omni-directional audio, in an easy-to-carry form factor that integrates easily with a softphone of their choice, all at the price of a basic speakerphone. A carrying case is included. 

The Clarity 340 is designed for those who face vision, hearing, or dexterity challenges. The handset-style phone features amplified sound, an easy-to-read screen, large buttons for dialing, and crisp audio. 

All four products are available in March from authorised Plantronics distributors. Manufacturer's suggested retail prices are US$179.95 for the Blackwire 725; US$199.95 for the Voyager Edge UC; US$99.95 for the Calisto 610, and for the Clarity 340, US$149.95. 

Bluetooth speakers, headphones from Bose make connections easier

Bose has announced two additions to its SoundLink family of mobile audio solutions: the SoundLink Color Bluetooth speaker, the most affordable SoundLink speaker from Bose, and SoundLink Bluetooth on-ear headphones, the first on-ear Bluetooth headphones from Bose. 

The SoundLink Color Bluetooth speaker is a completely new SoundLink design. It weighs 1.25 pounds (567g), and measures 5” wide, 2.1” deep and 5.3” high. Bose combined exclusive dual-opposing passive radiators with two high-efficiency transducers for full-range sound, including deep, low-note performance. Essential controls are on the product, and a 3.5mm stereo auxiliary input is integrated on the back of the enclosure.

The SoundLink Color Bluetooth speaker connects wirelessly to a smartphone, tablet or other Bluetooth enabled device, and uses voice prompts - available in several languages - to simplify setup, and identify which source is connected. If it is turned off, the speaker remembers the last eight devices it was paired with when powered back on. It then automatically connects to the two most recently used, such as the iPhone, iPad, Android, or other Bluetooth-enabled device. 

The SoundLink Color Bluetooth speaker runs on a lithium-ion battery for up to eight hours, and fully recharges with most USB power sources in about three hours. Its exhaustively-tested housing is made of elastomer and plastic and comes in black, white, blue, red and mint.

The new SoundLink on-ear Bluetooth headphones are lighter and more comfortable than conventional Bluetooth headphones, the company said, and deliver all the audio performance of a Bose wired headphone. Bose Active Equalization and TriPort technology combine for smoother, more balanced sound. Mid-high frequencies are natural, and low-frequencies are detailed and full. 

A new two-microphone system rejects distractions like wind, so callers can hear what you’re saying more, and the sounds around you less. Adaptive Audio Adjustment technology automatically changes volume based on speech level and ambient noise, letting wearers move from a quiet environment to a noisier one without missing a word.

Just like the new speakers, the SoundLink on-ear Bluetooth headphones connect up to two devices at a time and lets the wearer switch between them. Users can for example watch a video from a tablet while staying connected to A smartphone. Simple voice prompts identify who’s calling, battery status and source connection. With commands on the earcup, wearers are in control: turn it on and off, answer and end a call, adjust volume, play/pause, or control tracks, without using your phone.

The SoundLink on-ear Bluetooth headphones weigh only 5.5 ounces (156g). Designed to be worn comfortably for hours, they feature soft ear cushions and a headband pad made of fabric used in high-end automotive applications. To stow away, they fold smoothly for compact storage in a matching case. The SoundLink Bluetooth headphones come in black or white, and charge easily with an included USB cable for up to 15 hours of listening, or up to two hours after a 15-minute charge.

The SoundLink Color Bluetooth speaker and the SoundLink on-ear Bluetooth headphones will be sold* for US$129.95 and US$249.95, respectively. The SoundLink Bluetooth headphones are already available*, while pre-orders for the SoundLink Color Bluetooth speaker will be available* starting September 25, 2014. All SoundLink products are sold* at Bose retail stores, Bose.com, and at authorised Bose dealers.


*Images from Bose. Prices and availability varies across countries.

Kickstarter focus: iFind, powered by ambient electromagnetic radiation

WeTag's iFind tags communicate with iOS or Android devices using Bluetooth and do not need to be charged. As with other locator systems, a tag is placed on the item and tracked through the phone. 

If the item moves out of range, the owner is alerted through the 'Rope' feature, and nearby phones can help detect the object through Bluetooth via the 'UHelp' feature. A fascinating feature for iFind is that shaking the iFind tags will cause the phone to vibrate, WeTag said.

Source: Kickstarter.

The difference is that the iFind tag does not contain a battery and is powered by ambient electromagnetic radiation, WeTag says. "It recycles electromagnetic energy and stores it in a unique power bank. This exciting feature frees you from the trouble of charging batteries or replacing them through the manufacturer," say the makers on the Kickstarter page.

For US$16, a backer is entitled to one locator in one of a dozen colours. Overseas shipping costs US$10.

The funding campaign ends June 30. View the associated video here.

This blog has posted on two other location-based projects: Tile, and Phone Finder.

Kickstarter focus: the quick Phone Finder

The Phone Finder does just that, and with any lost smartphone, even one that is on silent mode, and will continue to do so in a no-fuss way for the next three years. Once the Phone Finder device is clicked within a 15 metre radius, the missing phone will ring, vibrate and flash even if it is on silent mode, so that the owner can find it. If the phone is out of range, the Phone Finder website will show where it is on a map.
 

Source: Kickstarter

Entrepreneur Gabsow Tom chose Bluetooth 2.1 as the underlying technology for a reason. He says on the Kickstarter page: "Bluetooth v2.1 is the only Bluetooth version to have both forward and backward compatibility, which allows Phone Finder to work on every Smartphone. It is not limited to an iOS or Android version. In comparison, Bluetooth v4.0* based products only support a very limited number of smartphone models."

Tom also promises that a Phone Finder used approximately five times a week should last up to three years. "We had to design it to consume energy only when pressed, and only for the necessary amount of time. This was a huge technical challenge...We manipulated Bluetooth to activate, transmit and communicate with the phone and then shut off automatically in order to drastically conserve energy. This way we guaranteed that if you own a Phone Finder you never have to think about charging it or maintaining it in any way," states Tom on the Kickstarter page.

A pledge of US$25 will provide the backer with a single Phone Finder and the choice of either a keychain, magnet or a sticker to use it with. The funding request expires on June 2. The associated video can be viewed here.

*A post about Tile, which uses Bluetooth 4 to locate objects, is here.

Tile's tiles make the Internet of Things real, without even being on the Internet

Heard about the Internet of Things*? Thought it had nothing to do with you? Take the example of Tile, a startup which hopes to become the world's 'lost and found'. 

Rather than it being about your fridge being connected to the Internet to the point where it can send spam to others, it could be about Tile's reality: tiles which are small enough to fit on a keyring, and which never get lost.

Source: Tile website.

Strictly speaking, the tiles don't actually get on the Internet either, but it's close. Compatible iOS devices like iPhones and iPads can check where nearby tiles are via Bluetooth 4.0, and report their GPS locations to the Tile cloud. The actual locations are only shared with the owner of the tile, and there can be up to 10 tiles per account.

If there are enough Tile users, you could conceivably track your tiles and the items they are attached to. Stick the tiles to office property like laptops, and if they are stolen or misplaced, you can still find out where they are if an iOS device nearby your lost tile checked for tiles, noted the GPS location of your tile, and then reported it to the Tile cloud.  

The challenge is that there have to be enough Tile users for the tracking to occur. At the same time, the GPS signal has to be clear; there are cases where there is no signal, among tall buildings or underground, for example. And in a case where a tile is in a skyscraper, you would likely only obtain the address of the skyscraper, and not which floor it is on.

There is still a lot of utility for tiles within a confined space, however. With tiles, anything could be made to show up location-wise, even a non-electronic item like a plastic file full of paper, or a nametag for a visitor. Important files could be tagged with tiles so that it becomes clear whose desk they are on, for example, and you would theoretically be able to track your visitor's whereabouts at all times to ensure he or she doesn't wander into sensitive areas. 

*The Internet of Things refers to non-computer items being given the ability to communicate with the Internet. Prior to Tile, there was little indication about what they might want to communicate, or how useful that communication would be.