An Anaheim company announced today a partnership with NXP Software B.V. of the Netherlands to provide the last hardware needed to produce its PocketFinder, a small device that parents can use to track their kids. NXP will be supplying semiconductor chips for the GPS-based gadget.
PocketFinder, from the Anaheim company Location Based Technologies, is in its final testing stages and provides parents with alternatives to tethering themselves to their children, or giving kids cell phones that can easily be turned off.
How does it work? Children wear a small waterproof device that transmits its location to satellites. Parents call a 714 phone number and type in a private code. The system tells the parent the location of the device. The company’s illustration suggests that the location is given as a street address. Also, the tracker can be alerted when the trackee travels above a specified speed or when the trackee leaves or enters a specified zone.
Who is it for? Besides parents, Location Based Technologies suggests the PocketFinder can be used for medical and elderly care providers, outdoor or extreme sports enthusiasts and pet owners. Accessories will be sold for the device, such as a pouch that holds the locater, and can be attached to things such as dog collars, purse straps or belts.
When will it be available? In the first quarter of 2008, selling for less than $150 with a few different monthly rate plans, the lowest costing less than $15 a month.
What cell phones work with it? Any phone can be used, but a phone isn’t even required. Users buy and sign-up to use the device through Location Based Technologies. They can locate someone by visiting a Web site or calling a phone number. People can also choose to have the alerts sent as e-mails, text messages or phone calls.
