“Where did I put it?” It’s a thought most people can relate to after losing their belongings. Samsung Electronics is putting an end to searching and stressing with the Galaxy SmartTag2 — a mobile accessory released in October that provides a simple, convenient solution for locating items.
Just two years after the launch of its predecessors, the Galaxy SmartTag2 has returned with a design upgrade and substantial feature enhancements based on user feedback.
Samsung Newsroom sat down with Dalwon Kim and Kiyoung Kwon, Product Planners of the
Galaxy SmartTag2 at Samsung Electronics, to discuss key aspects of the product and its
improvements.
Rugged Design: IP67-Rated Usability With Metal Loop
Building off valuable user insights gathered during the launch of the Galaxy SmartTag and Galaxy SmartTag+, the Galaxy SmartTag2 was developed with a focus on the user experience to improve comfort and increase satisfaction.
The most noticeable change with the Galaxy SmartTag2 is its design — reducing the product size and thickness resulted in a more portable device. The new metal loop improves functionality and adds an air of sophistication to the product.
“After analyzing thousands of reviews of the previous iterations, we noticed some feedback about minor inconveniences that affect the user experience,” explained product planner Dalwon Kim.
“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.”
Added Convenience With Compass View and Lost Mode
Improving the features of the all-new Galaxy SmartTag2 began by asking how the company can allow users to make the most out of their Galaxy SmartTags in any environment. By harnessing the global network of Galaxy products, Samsung was able to strengthen Galaxy SmartTag’s versatility and utility through two features — Compass View and Lost Mode.
“The Galaxy SmartTag2 has evolved significantly to make it applicable in a wider variety of
scenarios,” said Kim.
The Galaxy SmartTag2 also introduces Lost Mode, 3 a new feature powered by near-field
communication (NFC) technology that will be handy in a variety of situations. If Lost Mode is activated and someone with a NFC-compatible device discovers a lost item, they can scan the Galaxy SmartTag2 — allowing them to access the owner’s contact information and any personalized messages.
Extended Battery Life: Up to 500 Days of Usage
The Galaxy SmartTag2 boasts an impressively long battery life 4 — offering approximately 500 days of continuous use or more than double that of its predecessors. When the new Power Saving Mode 5 is activated, the battery life can stretch to 700 days or more than four times that of the previous versions.
“Although Galaxy SmartTags are designed to track both locations and lost
items, most users primarily utilize them for location tracking. We introduced the Power Saving Mode to cater to this preference,” said Kim.
“One of the most common points raised in user feedback was related to battery life,” said product planner Kiyoung Kwon. “Our primary objective was to extend battery life — ensuring it could span several months or more.”
Compared to the Galaxy SmartTag+, the Galaxy SmartTag2 offers a longer battery life at a more affordable price point. “This achievement was made possible by implementing a new chipset solution and improving software mechanisms,” he emphasized.
Strong Security Features and Unauthorized Tracking Detection
The main goal of the Galaxy SmartTag2 is to assist users in locating their cherished belongings. However, it is crucial to recognize that location-tracking services can be exploited.
To prioritize user safety and privacy, the Galaxy SmartTag2 incorporates robust security features through Samsung Knox. “Galaxy SmartTag2 location data cannot be accessed without the user’s consent, and all user data is encrypted and safeguarded by Samsung Knox.
Furthermore, location data is shared only with individuals designated by the user,” explained Kim.
The Galaxy SmartTag2 can also detect unknown Galaxy SmartTags in the vicinity to alleviate concerns about unauthorized tracking. “Unknown tag alerts,” a feature within SmartThings Find, identifies any unregistered Galaxy SmartTags nearby and sends a notification to alert the user against unauthorized tracking.
“This feature offers assurance and an added layer of security,” said Kwon. “Regardless of the device, users are provided with transparency to help avoid misuse of the Galaxy SmartTag.”
“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.
We will continue to do our best to create products that users can continuously
rely on wherever they go.”
“I hope that the Galaxy SmartTag2 can become an integral part of people’s lives,” said Kwon. “I want the Galaxy SmartTag to be the first solution that crosses people’s minds when they need to find their lost belongings.”
Summary
Determine location of nearby Galaxy users through Galaxy SmartTag regardless of distance
Battery life extended to 500 days
Find lost items from a short distance with UWB technology-based Compass View feature
Newly added Lost Mode feature
Discover unregistered Galaxy SmartTags and prevent unauthorized location tracking
23% (23 out of 100) of Galaxy SmartTag owners use more than two
