Chipolo, the maker of AirTag-like devices, on Monday introduced the latest version of its product. Now, instead of offering models that only work with either Apple or Google’s lost-item finding technology, the new Chipolo POP devices work with both companies’ finding networks out of the box.
By combining these different functionalities into one device, Chipolo believes it will be easier for consumers to choose the right device for their needs. Plus, this would make Chipolo products better for gifting because buyers won’t need to know whether the recipient uses Android or an iPhone, the company said.
The Chipolo devices are among a handful of companies, including Tile, Pebblebee, and Samsung, that make their own AirTag-like trackers.
Unlike Tile, which designed a finding network that leveraged the people who had its mobile app installed, Chipolo chose to work with the existing finding networks offered by platform makers Apple and Google. (Though Tile arrived before the AirTag, the competition from Apple ultimately led to its finding an exit by selling in 2021 to family locator service, Life360, for $205 million.)
To date, Chipolo has sold more than 4.5 million of its devices. Following the launch of its first “Find My” compatible product, the Chipolo ONE Spot and the Chipolo Card Spot, it’s seen a 30% average in annual growth, the company shared with TechCrunch via email.
In addition to offering support for both Apple and Google’s finding networks, the new Chipolo POP includes other popular features from prior trackers, including the option to find your missing phone by double-pressing on your trackers out-of-range alerts, the ability to change the Chipolo’s ringtone, and the option to use the tracker as a remote selfie shutter.
The Bluetooth range of the device has also been extended to 300 feett (90m) and the battery lasts up to a 1 year and is user-replaceable.
The new devices now come in blue, black, green, red, white, and yellow and sell for $29 (£30/€35) on Chipolo’s website and Amazon.
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