Startup to create multifunction capsule-shaped tracker

Personal GPS trackers are proliferating but many releases focus only on a single function, which is fitness or security. Small variants are designed typically for asset security and child tracking, and only integrate one or two sensors.

One company, AllBe1, aims to launch a small capsule-shaped tracker that is about the size of a car's keyfob but can address a number of personal and home security needs. The device can be clipped on laptops, other valuables or clothes and packs a variety of sensors and interconnects, including temperature, PIR, light and UV detectors, and an accelerometer.

AllBe1's tracker will also have proximity sensors allowing it to act as an authentication device. An example of this is when the unit is out of range, no one can unlock the smartphone where it is clipped on. The tracker also doubles as a panic button that calls a phone number to give one's GPS location during emergency situations.

The product's designers are currently running a crowdfunding campaign, and at the time of this writing is just $50,000 short of achieving its target with over 30 days left. They are hoping that it will become a jack of all trades that can not only be used to track people and belongings, but be used for a number of home and office security applications.