Vodafone UK has expanded its consumer Internet of Things (IoT) range with a tracker designed and manufactured by the company itself. The new multi-purpose tracker – called Curve – is able to locate your valuables such as keys, laptops, bags and cars.
Until now, Vodafone had expanded its suite of IoT products using trusted manufacturers from around the globe. This change of strategy means that new smart tech will instead be developed in-house with some of the world’s leading designers.
Tom Guy, Chief Product Officer, at Vodafone Consumer said:
“The launch of Curve highlights the focus the team has on creating pioneering smart tech and digital experiences with seamless user experience at the core.
“Our research showed how vital it was to create a product that was as intuitive as it was versatile – allowing users to keep track of belongings and stay connected to what matters most.”
Vodafone’s latest IoT product, from the ‘Designed & Connected by Vodafone’ range, has a distinctive new design identity across hardware, software and communications.
The Curve is a keyring-sized device that Vodafone claims will attach to almost anything. The key difference compared to most bluetooth-only trackers is that it utilises Bluetooth, GPS, WiFi, and cellular connectivity to keep tabs on its location in real time – beaming current and past locations directly to the Vodafone Smart app on your phone.
Other features include a ‘Quick Alert’ button that family or friends can use to send a location update to your phone, IP67 water resistance, global connectivity, alert zones to notify you if the Curve leaves a certain area, and up to seven days of battery life – depending on which tracking method you opt for.
Lutfu Kitapci, Managing Director, Vodafone Consumer said:
“Through driving the development of our own smart tech, we are helping bring customers added peace of mind.
“Created with leading industrial designers and connected by our global network, Curve’s versatility makes it the perfect way to keep track of what matters most, fitting seamlessly into everyday life.”
The launch of Curve is the first in a series of new smart tech products that will be unveiled by Vodafone in the next few months.
The Curve is available now in black or grey for £20, plus the subscription that keeps the tracker working in the first place. That’s £2 a month for 24 months, or £3 a month for 12.
Vodafone Curve specs
- Connectivity: Bluetooth, GPS, Wi-Fi and cellular (Quad GSM 850/ GSM900/ DCS1800/ PCS1900)
- Buttons: power button (side), quick alert button (top)
- Waterproof: IP67 for 1m depth up to 30mins
- Battery: up to 7 days use
- App: available on iOS App Store, Android Google Play
- Size: 16.4mm thick, 42.1mm diameter
- Weight: 30g
- In the box: 1x Vodafone Curve, 1x Key ring accessory, 1x charging cable
Your Vodafone account can control / track up to 20 Curves.
