The Galaxy SmartTag2 was released in October, two years after the first SmartTag landed on the market.
The new SmartTag, which can be connected to personal items such as luggage and helps the user locate them by linking to a smartphone via a Bluetooth emitter, has returned with a design upgrade and substantial feature enhancements based on user feedback.
“After analyzing thousands of reviews of the previous iterations, we noticed some feedback about minor inconveniences that affect the user experience,” said Samsung product planner Dalwon Kim in an interview with the Samsung Newsroom.
“Our goal for this version was to create a design that is smaller, lighter and attachable anywhere. We also wanted to make sure the battery was not easily removable. We took outdoor activities into account and made specific improvements to enhance the product’s durability, such as adding IP67-rated water- and dust-resistant features.”
The most obvious change with the new tag compared to its predecessor is its design, with a reduction in the device’s size and thickness resulting in a more portable device. It also features a new metal loop to help improve functionality.
The tag still operates with Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) and Ultra-Wideband (UWB) technology, a feature originally adopted for the Galaxy SmartTag+.
However, the SmartTag2 builds upon the innovations of its predecessors and introduces a more intuitive way for users to locate their belongings by displaying both the direction of and distance from the misplaced object, said Kim.
“With the Galaxy SmartTag+, users had to monitor the signal strength to gauge their proximity to items and then tap Find Using Camera before turning the mobile device around,” said Kim. “Through Compass View on the Galaxy SmartTag2, the direction and distance to the lost item are automatically displayed when you reach a certain distance — an arrow icon appears on the screen, pointing in the direction of the item. It’s as simple as using a compass.”
Kim added: “We’ve improved the product’s features with a strong focus on enabling users to conveniently locate their lost valuables from a distance,” said Kim. “I’ve heard of cases where the Galaxy SmartTag was used to catch thieves and prevent other crimes, which made me very proud as a product planner.”