Family connection and safety company Life360 acquired Tile back in 2021, and the latest 2024 editions of the popular Tile Bluetooth trackers, the first to launch since 2022, now include integrated Life360 features along with an SOS service.
Tile Bluetooth trackers are designed to clip to, go in, or on various valuables so you can keep track of them. Think everything from a backpack to a headphones case, wallet, keys, even a bicycle or skateboard, depending on the specific model and its design. The new line includes the same core options – the Pro, Mate, Slim, and Sticker – but all with enhanced and new features, including longer ranges, louder rings, refined designs, and the aforementioned Life360 integration. This involves a multi-function button that works with the Life360 app’s SOS service, so you can press it three times in rapid succession if you feel unsafe to alert family members, friends, or caregivers. The SOS alerts are free for all users.
Additionally, the Life360 app can be used to locate and ring shared Tiled items or ring a connected cell phone, allowing families to help each other quickly find important items. Tiles are compatible with both iOS and Android devices.
The top line model is the Tile Pro, which comes with a built-in key ring, the loudest ring of all the models, and the longest range at 500 feet and it’s 110dB louder. Most notably, it has a replaceable battery, though it lasts for only one year. But it’s easy to find coin cell replacements. This model also boasts an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance. It’s perfect for your most valuable items you might leave behind like a camera, headphones, car, or golf bag, or can also be clipped to a backpack, purse, or keys. It sells for US$35 and will be available in early October.
The Tile Mate has a built-in key ring and comes with a non-replaceable battery that lasts for up to three years. It has a 350-foot range, which is 100 feet longer than the previous version and it’s also 100dB louder. It boasts a higher IP68 water- and dust-resistance rating as well. It sells for US$25 and is ideal for items like keys, backpacks, and purses.
Ideal for slotting into a wallet, passport folio, tablet case, or laptop bag, the Tile Slim (US$30) has a non-replaceable battery that lasts for up to three years, a 350-foot range, and 104dB volume. With an IP68 rating making it more durable than the previous generation, it’s great for travelers, slotting into items like carry-on and checked luggage, too.
The smallest of the bunch remains the Tile Sticker (US$25), which is designed to affix to items using the included adhesives. Put it on the underside of a bicycle seat or skateboard, for example, inside the eyeglasses case you keep misplacing, or even the TV remote. It has a non-replaceable battery that lasts for up to three years, a 250-foot range, 100dB louder audio, and IP68 water resistance.
Additional features with all models include anti-theft mode designed to protect high-value items without alerting the potential thieves that you are being notified.
Along with a free tier, Life360 offers membership tiers including Silver, Gold, and Platinum, each with different features and premium services. The optional Gold and Platinum memberships, available in the U.S., UK, Australia, and Canada, provide benefits like being able to contact emergency dispatch services with the Tile’s SOS feature. This means members do not have to call for help themselves; the dispatcher will assess the situation and contact the appropriate authorities.
Other optional premium benefits include Roadside Assistance, Stolen Phone Protection, 30 days of Location History, and Individual Driving Reports.