We’ve previously written about Ping, a tiny Cellular GPS tracker that promised to last 3 months on a charge. The raising money part of the crowdfunding campaign itself was successfully with over one million dollars raised, but as with many such campaigns there have been delays, and some people still have to receive theirs, not to mention people complaining about poor battery life and other issues.
But there seems to be another option now with Tail It Technologies now offering four different “Tail it” cellular GPS trackers (with WiFi too) for things, pets, and even one designed specifically for bicycles. The company has already sold their devices to thousands of customers in Norway, so they should be working, and on-time delivery should hopefully not be an issue.
All four GPS trackers come with 2G, 3G, 4G, and WiFi connectivity, a 5-meter accuracy, and share the same electronics and firmware. Here’s a list of the four models and their main features:
- Tail it – Smallest and lighter version with 3 weeks battery life; splash-proof; wireless charging
- Tail it+ – Same as Tail It but with larger case holding a battery that should last for about 8 weeks
- Tail it Pet – Waterproof model with pet collar for dogs, cats, and other pets you may have. 3 weeks battery life
- Tail it Bike – Flexible waterproof cylindric shape to place inside a bike’s handlebar. Charging via waterproof USB type C port, 8 weeks battery life
The company claims there’s no subscription, nor monthly fees associated with the tracker, but does not clearly explain how the cellular connectivity is to be achieved in the description. This is however explained in comments:
In this case the units can use SIM-cards from most operators in the world. If you get a pre-paid card or any other type of extra card you will avoid monthly subscription. When we send out the units they will contain a optional SIM-card which you can activate, this will cost 4.99USD a month, when the tracker is in use, nothing if you dont use it.
So you’ll have the choice of using your own SIM card, or optionally activate a $5 per month SIM card included in the unit.
The trackers are managed through Tail It mobile that is already available for iOS and Android. I’ve linked to Android APK, since the app appears to have been taken down on Google Play at the time of writing.
There’s a three step setup for each tracker: 1. scan the device number, 2. add a photo, 3. monitor the device location on the map. Right now, the position is updated roughly every minute if the device moves, but the company will be working on a fast live tracking option. The latter should affect battery life however.
Tail it GPS tracker has launched on Kickstarter aiming to raise at least 100,000 NOK ($12,350 US), and they’ve done good so far with over $50,000 raised. I’ll use US dollars equivalent prices going forward. They’ve kept things simple as perks start at $86 for Tail it, Tail it+, Tail it Pet, or Tail it Bike. You can pay less per unit by selecting bundles of up to 10 GPS trackers. Shipping adds $18 to $37 depending on select reward. Delivery is planned for September 2018.
Jean-Luc started CNX Software in 2010 as a part-time endeavor, before quitting his job as a software engineering manager, and starting to write daily news, and reviews full time later in 2011.
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