The Samsung SmartTag3 will soon be here to give Apple AirTags a run for their money. This is especially true since Samsung’s upcoming smart trackers will now offer cross-OS support. This level of universality should make them more appealing regardless of your favorite platform.
During a recent Samsung event, I went hands-on with the SmartTag3 and was impressed by its new features and compact design. It also didn’t hurt that a cute dog was at the event to show how the tags benefit pet owners. But whether it’s your fur baby or your luggage, SmartTag3 should help you keep track of your valuables.
Here’s what I think of the Samsung SmartTag 3.
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Samsung SmartTag3: price and availability
Just in time for the holiday season, the Samsung Galaxy SmartTag3 will be available in the US in early November. A one-pack will cost $29, and a four-pack will be $99. Tags will be available in white and black.
In addition, Samsung will offer new official accessories for its tags. These include a silicone case with a key ring and a loop case. Prices have yet to be announced.
Samsung SmartTag3: Design
Instead of a key fob design like the Galaxy SmartTag 2, the new SmartTag3 resembles a small puck. It is now about 35% smaller in volume and 33% lighter than the previous model. This makes it easy to attach the tags to keys, small bags, luggage or even your pet’s collar.
The rounded tag also has an aluminum-decorated button, giving it a more elegant look and a durable feel.
I like how the tags are elegant but unobtrusive. Whether you put them on your backpack or on your dog’s collar, they won’t look out of place. They also feel good to hold due to their smooth texture.
Samsung SmartTag3: Core Features
One of the biggest new features, and a first for the Galaxy SmartTag lineup, is cross-OS compatibility for Galaxy and iOS devices. Samsung says this will make it easier for families and groups to access core functionality and sharing features across platforms. In other words, if you are an iPhone user, the SmartTag3 will work with your phone.
Via SmartThings Find, you can check and share the location of a tag and use search near via supported devices. So if a family member borrows your book bag, you can check their location and use supported search functions of your Galaxy or iPhone.
If you’ve lost something in your home, you can use Compass View to find it. Acting like one of the trackers in the alien movies (minus the monsters), Compass View offers distance and direction guidance from up to 60 meters away, which is about three times further than the previous model. As you get closer, you’ll see a circle on the app start to fill up, and it will fill up when you’re in the target location.
What happens if the SmartTag3 moves outside the connection range? That’s where the Galaxy Find Network steps in to keep the search going. As Samsung explained, more than 900 million participating Galaxy devices worldwide can act as a search button to detect the SmartTag3 and update its position within reach of your phone.
Samsung’s smart tags also tell you when objects or pets move out of their usual areas via the location notification function. This saves you constantly checking if something has moved. If it happens, you will be notified. Location History also lets you review where your tag has been, while the Movement Detection Alert feature notifies you when movement is detected.
Finally, the SmartTag3 promises up to 550 days of battery life under normal use and up to 790 days in power saving mode. Since Apple’s smart tags last about a year (365 days), this is another reason for Apple users to consider the Samsung SmartTag.
Outlook
Samsung has stepped things up with the SmartTag 3, making it more useful for tracking the things you don’t want to lose. Cross-OS support is probably the biggest new feature, as it opens up these trackers to people outside the Samsung ecosystem.
As an iPhone user myself, I’m impressed by what I’ve seen and would love to give this smart tracker a shot. You all can too, because November is right around the corner. Stay tuned for more!
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