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Device of the Week: TrackR

TrackR

TrackR is a coin-sized wireless device, developed by engineers Chris Herbert and Christian Smith, that allows you to find your lost or misplaced items within seconds using an app on your smartphone. Due to its tiny size, the TrackR is portable and could be fitted into your wallet or attached to your keys, your bags, and other belongings.

It tracks your misplaced items by using GPS to determine its location. With features like the ‘distance indicator’, the app will also alert you if you are within close proximity to the item you are looking for. The great thing about the TrackR is that its function is also interchangeable with your smartphone. If you were to ever lose your smartphone, a click of a button on the TrackR would sound an alarm for you to easily find your missing phone.

There is an additional feature for the TrackR called the ‘Crowd Locate network’ where when another TrackR user is within the bluetooth range from your lost item, you will receive the most updated location of it from the app.

What I like most about this device is the function that it serves and how it has been optimized to help you find your items in the best ways possible. The fact that it has been integrated and made into an app makes it even more convenient for users since almost everyone anywhere already has a smartphone. I also like how you the function is interchangeable where the TrackR could be used to locate your lost smartphone.

Additionally, this device could be used to lower the chances of bike thefts or even other belongings that you may leave outdoors where they are much more prone to be stolen. However, I can also see how the TrackR could be used in a malicious way where it could be easily latched on to other people and have their movements tracked without them being aware of it. The TrackR, even as a helpful device, could in turn be used for crimes if it falls on the wrong hands.