A conversation with the creators of the Galaxy SmartTag2 – Samsung Latin America Newsroom

One of the most notable changes that occurred to the device is its design, as its size was reduced

“Where did you put it? It’s a thought most people relate to after losing their belongings. Samsung Electronics is putting an end to the searching and stress with the Galaxy SmartTag2, a mobile phone accessory launched in October that provides a simple and convenient solution for locating things.

Just two years after the launch of its predecessors, the Galaxy SmartTag2 returns with an updated design and substantial feature improvements based on user feedback.

Samsung’s press room sat down with Dalwon Kim and Kiyoung Kwon, product planners for the Galaxy SmartTag2 at Samsung Electronics, to discuss key aspects of the product and its improvements.

Rugged Design: Use IP67 certified and metal ring

Based on 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 convenience and increase satisfaction.

The most notable change to the Galaxy SmartTag2 is its design: reducing the size and thickness of the product has resulted in a more portable device. The new metal ring improves functionality and adds an air of sophistication to the product.

▲Galaxy SmartTag2 Silicone Case (sold separately) allows users to hold their devices safely and comfortably.

“After analyzing thousands of reviews of previous iterations, we saw some comments about small annoyances that affect the user experience,” explains product planner Dalun Kim. “Our goal with this version was to create a smaller, lighter design that could be installed anywhere. We also wanted to make sure the battery couldn’t be easily removed.” We took outdoor activities into account and made specific improvements to increase the life of the product, such as adding water and dust resistance features Rated IP67.”^[1]

Greater convenience with compass display and lost mode

To enhance the features of the new Galaxy SmartTag2, the company began asking how users could get the most out of their Galaxy SmartTag devices in any environment. By leveraging the global network of Galaxy products, Samsung has been able to enhance the versatility and usefulness of the Galaxy SmartTag with two features: Compass Display and Lost Mode.

“The Galaxy SmartTag2 has evolved so much that it can be applied in a wide range of scenarios,” says Kim.

▲ Dalun Kim explains the features of the Galaxy SmartTag2.

The Galaxy SmartTag2 continues to operate using Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) and Ultra Wideband (UWB), a feature originally approved for the Galaxy SmartTag+.

As for new features, Compass View is an enhanced feature available on the Galaxy SmartTag2 that takes the search feature to the next level.

When using Compass View on the Galaxy SmartTag, which relies solely on BLE technology, users had to physically get close to missing items to boost the signal. However, the new Galaxy SmartTag2 builds on the innovations of previous devices and offers a more intuitive way^[2] For users to locate their belongings by showing the direction and distance of the lost object.

“With the Galaxy SmartTag+, users had to monitor signal strength to gauge how close they were to objects and then tap ‘Scan to use camera’ before flipping the mobile device over,” Kim explained. “With the Galaxy SmartTag2 display compass, the direction and distance to the misplaced object are automatically displayed when a certain distance is reached: an arrow-shaped icon appears on the screen, indicating the direction of the object. It’s as simple as using a compass.”

▲Galaxy SmartTag2 can also be attached to bags and luggage.

The Galaxy SmartTag2 also features a lost mode^[3]It is a new feature based on Near Field Communication (NFC) technology that will be very useful in different situations. If Lost Mode is activated and someone with an NFC-enabled device discovers a missing item, they can scan the Galaxy SmartTag2, allowing them to access the owner’s contact information and any personalized messages.

Long-lasting battery: up to 500 days of use

The Galaxy SmartTag2 has an impressive battery life^[4]– Provides approximately 500 days of continuous use, or more than double that of its predecessor. When the new power saving mode is activated^[5] Battery life can reach 700 days or more than four times that of previous versions. “Although Galaxy SmartTags are designed to track lost places and objects, most users mainly use them to track places. We have introduced a power saving mode to cater to this preference,” Kim said.

▲ Kyung Kwon explains the features of the Galaxy SmartTag2.

“One of the most frequent points in user feedback was about battery life,” says Kyung Kwon, Product Planner. “Our main goal was to extend the battery life, ensuring it lasts for months or more.”

Compared to the Galaxy SmartTag+, the Galaxy SmartTag2 offers longer battery life at a cheaper price. “This achievement was made possible thanks to the implementation of a new chipset solution and improved software mechanisms,” he highlights.

Strong security features and detect unauthorized tracking

The main goal of the Galaxy SmartTag2 is to help users locate their valuables. However, it is important to realize that location services can be exploited.

To prioritize user security and privacy, Galaxy SmartTag2 includes powerful security features through Samsung Knox. “Galaxy SmartTag2 location data cannot be accessed without user consent, and all user data is encrypted and protected by Samsung Knox. Likewise, location data is only shared with people identified by the user,” explains Kim.

▲ Using the “Unknown Tag Alerts” function can prevent misuse of Galaxy SmartTag2.

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^[6]identifies any nearby unregistered Galaxy SmartTags and sends a notification^[7] To alert the user against unauthorized tracking.

“This feature provides assurances and an additional level of security,” Kwon said. “Regardless of the device, users have transparency to help prevent Galaxy SmartTag abuse.”

Why 23% of users choose multiple Galaxy SmartTags

Users familiar with the Galaxy SmartTag recognize its practicality. Of every 100 people who own Galaxy SmartTags, 23 own two or more. This number has doubled since last year and continues to rise.

The updated Galaxy SmartTag2 is expected to be adopted by a larger user base for a wider range of applications. Kim and Kwon, the brains behind the product, highlight the Galaxy SmartTag2 as a mobile accessory that provides “peace of mind.”

▲ (From left to right) Product planners Dalun Kim and Kyung Kwon

“We have improved the functionality of the product with a special focus on allowing users to find lost valuables easily and remotely,” says Kim. “I’ve heard of cases where Galaxy SmartTag has been used to catch thieves and prevent other crimes, which made me proud as a product planner. “We will continue to do our best to create products that users can constantly rely on wherever they go.”

“I hope the Galaxy SmartTag2 will become an integral part of people’s lives,” Kwon said. “I want Galaxy SmartTag to be the first solution that comes to people’s minds when they need to find their lost belongings.”

summary

• Locates nearby Galaxy users via Galaxy SmartTag regardless of distance.
• Battery life extended to 500 days.
• You can find lost items at close range using the Compass View function based on UWB technology.
• New lost mode added.
• Detect unregistered Galaxy SmartTag devices and prevent unauthorized location tracking.
• 23% (23 out of 100) of Galaxy SmartTag owners use more than two.

[1] The Galaxy SmartTag2 has an IP67 rating. Based on laboratory test conditions of immersion in up to 1 meter of fresh water for up to 30 minutes. Not recommended for use on beaches, swimming pools or soapy water. The device’s resistance to water and dust is not permanent and may decrease over time.

[2] For Galaxy SmartTag2, you need to sign in to your Samsung account and register for SmartThings Find. Galaxy SmartTag2 must be paired with compatible Galaxy Ultra Wide Band (UWB) smartphones running Android 11 or higher to work properly. Accuracy may be reduced if there is an obstacle between you and the card, such as when the card is inside a drawer, behind a wall, or in a car.

[3] The contact information and message displayed in Lost Mode must be previously registered in the SmartThings app.

[4] Battery life is based on results of internal laboratory tests conducted by Samsung under normal usage patterns. Tested using device beta results using a CR2032 inbox battery. Actual battery life may vary based on different usage patterns, environmental conditions, replacement battery manufacturer, and other factors.

[5] Without power saving mode, the expected battery life under normal use is up to 500 days. Power saving mode is limited to basic Bluetooth location functions (such as nearby search signal indicator and map).

[6] Non-Galaxy users can access the Unknown Tag Alerts feature in the SmartThings app settings.

[7] Users must have the Unknown Tag Alerts feature enabled to receive notifications from unregistered Galaxy SmartTags.