Samsung Launches SmartTag2, An Improved Tracker With 700-Day Battery Life
October 7, 2023Samsung has unveiled the SmartTag2 that promises improved features and battery life to allow users to better track their possessions. Launching globally on October 11th, the new tracker sports a slender key-ring shape that feels more functional than before.
The large metal loop is supposed to offer better resilience than previous models. It can be placed on clips, keyrings, luggage bags or concealed among its contents. The placement depends on you and how important it is. It has an IP67 rating for water and dust resistance. As such, it should hold up against light water splashes and exposure to dust without much issue.
The new Lost Mode feature lets users input their contact information via a message. If a person stumbles along someone’s lost SmartTag2, they can use their smartphone to scan the tag, see the owners’ message, and contact information. This would be useful if your pet is found by someone who needs to know your contact details. Lost mode works with any smartphone with an NFC reader and web browser.
There’s also an improved Compass View feature, which provides arrows to show the direction and distance of the SmartTag2 in relation to the user. This mode is available on any UWB-supported Galaxy smartphone, which includes the Galaxy S23 series.
Pet walking mode makes it easier for users to log their walks with their pets. And since it has an IP67 rating, exposure to water splashes while eating or light drizzles shouldn’t pose a problem.
The SmartThings Find app has also been updated and now installs a shortcut to the app on the users of the newly registered SmartTags smartphone. Said app now has a full screen map view and improved interface for better usability. If you do switch Galaxy smartphones the SmartTag2 automatically re-syncs to your new phone using your Samsung account.
Power Saving Mode on the new SmartTag2 allows you to squeeze out as much power as possible from the battery. Samsung says that it allows the SmartTag2 to last for up to 700 days on the same battery, which is twice as long as the previous models. It is available alongside Normal mode, which can last up to 500 days, 50% better than before.
The SmartTag2 uses both Bluetooth low Energy (BLE) and UWB capabilities as well as Augmented Reality (AR) Find technology to visually guide users toward their item using a smartphone camera. The SmartTag2 supports a maximum tracking range of 120 meters (limited by Bluetooth) and can be used to control smart home alliances through the SmartThings app.
Samsung says that the SmartTag2 location will only be made visible with the user’s permission. SmartThings Find also encrypts user data and is supported by Samsung Knox for an extra layer of security. If Lost Mode is disabled, the owner’s contact information is hidden, and the message left by the owner is wiped from the device.
SmartThings Find can also alert users of unauthorised tracking by sending them a notification. This is part of the “Unknown tag alerts” feature if SmartThings Find detects that an unknown SmartTag is following you. It’s a nice addition that should prevent stalking or unwanted tracking activities.
The new SmartTag2 works with SmartThings Station, which is integrated with SmartThings Find. It works as a home device scanner that keeps track of valuables that have a SmartTag attached to them. This works with TV remotes, wallets, and keys as well as registered devices like smartphones tablets, watches, and earbuds.
SmartThings Station will also alert pet owners if a tagged collar moves too far away from it. This is an excellent feature for owners who would like to keep a close eye on their pets’ whereabouts. We should know about the availability on October 11th, 2023.
