Samsung Electronics has just pulled the curtain back on the Galaxy Smart Tag 2, a significant upgrade from its predecessor released in January 2021. This next-generation tracking device comes packed with features that make locating your valuables be they pets, keys, or anything else easier and more intuitive than ever.
What’s the Buzz About?
The original Galaxy Smart Tag had already made waves in the market as a device that could be attached to non-communicative objects for easy location tracking. Using Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) and Ultra Wide-Band (UWB) technology, the Smart Tag could locate items even when offline, utilizing nearby Galaxy smartphones or tablets for assistance.
New Additions: NFC Technology and More
The Galaxy Smart Tag 2 builds upon this with the addition of NFC (Near Field Communication) technology. Two new modes, ‘Lost Mode’ and ‘Compass View Mode,’ offer an enhanced user experience. ‘Lost Mode’ allows users to input their contact information and a message into the device. Anyone who finds the tagged item can then access this information by scanning the tag with an NFC-enabled device.
‘Compass View Mode’ is another notable feature. It displays the direction and distance of the Smart Tag 2’s current location using arrows and numbers.This mode is accessible through the ‘SmartThings Find’ service within the SmartThings app and is compatible with all Galaxy smartphones that support UWB, including the Galaxy S23 Ultra.
Revamped User Experience
Samsung has also updated its ‘SmartThings Find’ service. The user interface has been made more intuitive, and the map display area on the smartphone screen has been expanded for better visibility. Plus, if you switch smartphones, there’s no need to resync the Smart Tag. It automatically syncs with your Samsung account, regardless of the device you’re using.
Power and Durability Upgrades
The Galaxy Smart Tag 2 introduces a new power-saving mode that significantly extends battery life. In this mode, the battery can last up to 700 days, which is more than four times longer than its predecessor. In the standard mode, the battery life is up to 500 days, more than double that of the previous version.
As for durability, the new Smart Tag 2 comes with IP67 water and dust resistance. The interior of the metal ring design uses a metal material to enhance durability further. It’s also designed to be easily attached to various accessories like key rings, bags, or pet leashes.
Enhanced Security Features
Security hasn’t been overlooked. All location data is encrypted and protected with Samsung Knox. Additionally, the SmartThings Find app has an ‘Unknown Tag Notification’ feature that sends a warning if it detects an unknown smart tag, preventing unauthorized tracking.
Jae-yeon Jeong, Vice President of Samsung Electronics Device Platform Center, stated, “Galaxy Smart Tag 2 provides users with an easier and more intuitive solution. It provides more options and improved usability to help you find your belongings.”
Availability
The Galaxy Smart Tag 2 is set to be released worldwide starting October 11, with domestic release dates and pricing yet to be confirmed.
The Galaxy Smart Tag 2 is not just an incremental upgrade; it’s a leap forward in the realm of personal item tracking. With its improved user interface, extended battery life, and enhanced security features, it’s set to redefine how we keep tabs on our valuables.