Wearable devices are usually used for tracking activity or sleep. But, a new wearable device (band) on the block, called SpotNSave, can prove to be a life saver. This security wristband is Bluetooth enabled, and links to your smartphone with the help of an accompanying app. This enables it to track your location to up to five of your friends or family members in real-time.
There can be occasions when you feel you are in danger or need urgent help. For such times, the device has an SOS button that will send a notification or an alert to one of the “guardian angels”, that you have chosen, in the form of a text message with your exact location.
Once the chosen guardian has the information, the app can give him/her exact turn-by-turn direction to reach your location. There can be times when you will not get an opportunity to press the SOS button. In such cases, worry not, for your real–time tracking will be on, thereby enabling your loved ones to see exactly where you are at any given point in time.
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This device may be useful for children, women who feel nervous while walking after dark or crossing certain neighbourhoods, and for elderly people who might need the SOS button should they suffer a fall or need any assistance.
The band comes with a rechargeable battery that can last for up to 18 hours, but it cannot send your last known location if it runs out of battery juice. Also, there are no monthly costs or subscription fees.
Once the device is paired with your smartphone, it continuously provides information regarding your location through your mobile’s built-in GPS. The band is available in three colours — white, brown, and black.
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The accompanying app is currently available only for Android phones, but the company is planning on launching apps for Windows and iOS phones soon.
The company’s revenue model is quite simple. The device was initially available for $27.99, but since March 2014, the company has raised the prices to $36.99. Interested people have the option of paying a certain amount in advance and the balance in instalments for four months.
Financing has been a challenge for creator Chirag Jagtiani.
They have a small team of three technical guys, and Chirag’s wife takes care of the marketing and website design.
The company had a number of angel investors who, after committing investment, backed out at the last minute. The makers finally turned to Indiegogo to raise the required funds.
But, daunting as all of it might seem, the team’s unrelenting and determined pursuit paid off, and SpotNSave became a reality.
If the device lives up to its promise, then it could be exactly the thing women all over the world need, to feel safe and secure in an environment that is becoming increasingly unsafe.