Chipolo Launches Rechargeable Trackers - AirTag Alternative

Chipolo Launches New Rechargeable Item Trackers

Chipolo, a company specializing in item tracking solutions and a competitor to Apple’s AirTags, unveiled its latest product additions on Wednesday. These include a refreshed version of the popular Chipolo LOOP tracker and the newly designed, streamlined Chipolo CARD.

Introducing the CARD and LOOP

The Chipolo CARD is specifically engineered to fit comfortably within a wallet. It boasts a subtly textured, matte finish in a charcoal hue, allowing it to seamlessly integrate with standard credit cards. Conversely, the LOOP is intended for attachment to frequently used belongings – such as keys, handbags, or backpacks – and is available in six distinct colors: navy, mint, honey, coral, charcoal, and chalk.

Rechargeable Batteries and Environmental Considerations

A key distinction from AirTags, which utilize disposable CR2032 lithium 3V coin batteries, is Chipolo’s adoption of rechargeable power sources for its new devices. The company estimates a battery life of approximately six months per charge. The LOOP can be recharged using any standard USB-C cable, while the CARD supports Qi wireless charging.

While some users may favor the convenience of battery replacement, others prioritize the reduced electronic waste associated with rechargeable designs. A competitive market in the tracker sector, preventing a single vendor from dictating design choices, is therefore crucial. Furthermore, Chipolo emphasizes its commitment to sustainability, stating that its products are constructed using at least 50% post-consumer recycled plastic.

Enhanced Features and Compatibility

Both the CARD and LOOP offer an expanded Bluetooth range of 400 feet (120 meters), simplifying the location of nearby misplaced items. Users can leverage the Chipolo companion app to initiate a search, benefiting from compatibility with both Apple’s Find My network and the Find Hub network for Android devices.

The trackers emit a loud alert sound – up to 110 dB for the CARD and 125 dB for the LOOP – to aid in locating items. Conversely, if a phone is lost, it can be found by pressing the button on the tracker twice. The Chipolo app also provides customizable settings, including out-of-range notifications for Android, ringtone selection, volume adjustment, and a new “ring-and-blink” feature for locating devices in low-light conditions.

Durability and Availability

Both devices are designed for resilience, boasting an IP67 rating for water and dust resistance. This signifies they can endure submersion in up to 1 meter of fresh water for a maximum of 30 minutes and are fully protected against the ingress of small particles.

Pre-orders for the new trackers are currently being accepted on Chipolo’s official website and Amazon. Retail availability will expand to include stores like T-Mobile by the end of September. Both the CARD and LOOP are priced at $39 (€45/£39).