14 DAY TRIAL // You might be familiar with the Internet of Things start-up that has provided users with the necessary tracking tools to locate their car or phone.
Now the San Francisco-based company is adding GPS functionality to its line of doggy-friendly Whistle products. Most of us love our pets and are concerned about them whenever we leave them behind to go to the office or on a 1-day trip.
So the Internet of Things is looking to provide a sensible solution to concerned doggy owners, who’d like to know Buster is doing all right.
The new device they are presenting us with is dubbed the WhistleGPS and is being marketed as the “FitBit for dogs.” It makes use of both GPS and sub-GHz cellular technology in order to sync with the owner’s iOS and Android device.
This is a new addition to the company’s Whistle lineup that appeals to pet owners who aren’t always around their pooches. The extra GPS functionality will come in handy especially for people who own big properties or have left their favorite pet with a sitter, by enabling them to track their dog.
The WhistleGPS is a slim and light device meant to be worn around the neck, so it’s accessible to small or large breeds alike. The device comes equipped with Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and has a battery that can last up to 12 days.
The pet activity and location data from the device can be synced with the company’s servers via the Sigfox network, as well as using the above Bluetooth or Wi-Fi.
The previous Whistle monitor was priced for $130 / €95, but if you pre-order the WhistleGPS in the first week you’ll manage to grab yours for just $50 / €37.
However, it’s very likely the device will end up costing more after the first week expires. Don’t expect to be receiving the WhistleGPS immediately, because first pre-orders will start shipping out starting the summer of 2015.
Note that to enable location monitoring, Whistle will ask for $5 / €4 per month, but existing Whistle owners get a lifetime subscription automatically.
You might be wondering why this device is called the Fitbit for dogs. Well, the basic concept on which this doggy wearable was created was that owners will be able to track the well-being of their pet and be able to improve their lifestyle.
The GPS also comes extremely in handy if your dog happens to get lost. Think how much time and stress you’d end up saving.