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Open Garden's Network for Internet-of-Things (IoT) Takes Off with TrackR, the Finder App that Tracks Your Belongings

Open Garden's Network for Internet-of-Things (IoT) Takes Off with TrackR, the Finder App that Tracks Your Belongings Image Credit: OpenGarden

Open Garden, the company behind the FireChat app, the first messaging app that works off-the-grid, unveiled a new generation of Mobile Network for Internet-of-Things (IoT) devices. The latest initiative by Open Garden takes their peer-to-peer connection technology a step ahead by allowing millions of 'connected devices' in the IoT space to leverage on the density of mobile devices to have access to data. 

According to Open Garden, the peer-to-peer connection enables devices to automatically detect nearby enabled smartphones and tablets via Bluetooth LE (Low Energy) and can pass data through them until the final destination is reached. The technology works without pairing or pre-configuration on the devices end. To enable access to the network, device manufacturers use a simple digital access key, available from Open Garden and its partners, said the company.

Among the first to work with Open Garden on this technology is TrackR, the provider of the TrackR device that is attached to items such as keys, wallets, luggage, and bikes, enabling the owners to track the whereabouts of the items through the TrackR app. The broadcast signal from the TrackR device is picked up by any TrackR app user who comes within 100 ft of the item and the GPS location of the item is updated on the owner's mobile device. Apart from this, Open Garden said that TrackR users will also receive GPS updates when users of Open Garden’s apps or partners’ apps or devices come within the range. The system is completely secure and anonymous with the “finder” never knowing they found anything, added Open Garden. 

"Open Garden provides an elegant solution to scale the TrackR community. We are excited to partner with Open Garden to expand our Crowd GPS network to deliver the best tracking experience.”

-         Christian Johan Smith, President and co-founder, TrackR 

"With the 250,000 devices in the market, TrackR is one of the most successful IoT devices to date. IoT devices require connectivity and simplicity. Because the Open Garden Network  is 100% software based, it scales infinitely and the costs are extremely low. Open Garden’s technology also enables operators to generate additional revenues while embracing the IoT revolution."

-         Micha Benoliel, CEO and co-founder, Open Garden

Author

Executive Editor and Telecoms Strategist at The Fast Mode | 5G | IoT/M2M | Telecom Strategy | Mobile Service Innovations 

Tara Neal heads the strategy & editorial unit at The Fast Mode, focusing on latest technologies such as gigabit broadband, 5G, cloud-native networking, edge computing, virtualization, software-defined networking and network automation as well as broader telco segments such as IoT/M2M, CX, OTT services and network security. Tara holds a First Class Honours in BSc Accounting and Finance from The London School of Economics, UK and is a CFA charterholder from the CFA Institute, United States. Tara has over 22 years of experience in technology and business strategy, and has earlier served as project director for technology and economic development projects in various management consulting firms.

Follow Tara Neal on Twitter @taraneal11, LinkedIn @taraneal11, Facebook or email her at tara.neal@thefastmode.com.

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