These devices are small GPS sensors about the size of a large quarter. They are typically stored in, or attached to, personal items in order to locate them if lost. The devices are tracked using smartphone apps, and can communicate using bluetooth (for close-range communication) or GPS signals. They also use crowdsourced GPS techniques in order to determine and relay the location of an item to its owner. This means that while you may not be able to locate your item, someone else who is also using the device may be close to it. Variations of these wearable devices are also available for one’s pets.
- Examples: Tile, TrackR
- Technologies: GPS, bluetooth
- More information: http://recode.net/2015/04/01/trackr-vs-tile-the-lost-and-found-face-off/
