Struggling to find your keys or worried about leaving them behind? These innovative Bluetooth key finder gadgets pair with your smartphone to alert you and guide you right to them, eliminating daily frustration.
Key finders represent a booming category in tech accessories. These compact devices attach to keys, remotes, or frequently lost items, using Bluetooth to connect wirelessly with your phone. They emit beeps or provide directional guidance. Most leverage Bluetooth 4.0 for extended range and better battery life, though some support older versions. Before purchasing, verify your device's Bluetooth compatibility for optimal performance.
The hipKey keychain pairs seamlessly with your iPhone, alerting you when it separates from your phone. Measuring five centimeters in diameter, it lets you customize the alert range (short: 2-5m, up to long: 50m) via app. Set 'safe zones' like home or office to disable alerts. Tap the app to locate the hipKey; enable move mode for motion alerts. It also doubles as a phone finder with its button.
From security experts at Kensington, Proximo features a main remote (attach to keys) and multiple pairable tags. It tracks distance to your iPhone, alarming on separation. Press a button for mutual beeps. Extra tags track up to four items with GPS for last-known locations.
A versatile cross-platform choice, Cobra Tag supports older Bluetooth on iOS 5+, Android 2.1+, BlackBerry OS 4.5+. Up to 30-foot range triggers separation alarms; mutual buttons locate each other. Rechargeable battery lasts about a week; pairs with one phone at a time.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YeOVLK7gK_w
Similar to hipKey and Proximo, ZOMM adds a noise-canceling microphone for hands-free calls and a one-touch 911 button (US). iOS app included; Android version available separately.
Tile, yet to ship, offers credit-card-sized trackers with adhesive or keychain hole. Pair with iOS devices to play sounds, get proximity meters, or mark as lost for crowd-sourced GPS via other Tiles.
Coin-sized TrackR works with iOS and Android (e.g., Galaxy S3/S4, Note 2). Attach via tape or strap; alerts on separation, plays tones, stores last GPS, and networks with other TrackRs. Button rings silenced phone. Pre-order available; delivery est. Oct 2013.
As tech reviewers with hands-on experience testing trackers, we're most excited about Tile and TrackR for their compact design and long battery life. Ideal for set-it-and-forget-it tracking. Though not yet available, they're worth pre-ordering. Which one catches your eye? Share in the comments!
