Update: An image of the “Treasure Tag” has finally arrived online. The picture above was posted by evLeaks and confirms the rumours. We’ll most likely see Nokia officially unveil all the details of how it can be used tomorrow at Nokia World, but should come closely to what we wrote below: Bluetooth 4.0, NFC-based proximity sensor that makes sure you will never lose your valuable items – IH
Is Nokia getting into the accessories business? The Finnish company is reportedly making a Bluetooth 4.0 Low Energy-based device that, combined with NFC connectivity, will allow users to “tag” certain objects by attaching it to them, or placing it near them.
Like the Selfstarter-funded Tile, Nokia’s “Treasure Tag” as it will apparently be called will communicate with a Nokia Lumia device via Bluetooth in order to gauge where the tag, and therefore the associated object, happens to be. It works best with a pair of keys, and comes with an associated strap, but it will also work when thrown into a bag, computer or guitar case, or anything that warrants such an accompaniment.
At this point, it’s clear that Nokia is creating Treasure Tag to expand the desirability of its Lumia line; this is not a cross-platform product, and is unlikely to work with non-Nokia Windows Phones.
The Treasure Tag app, according to The Verge, will let users see where the tag is on a map, or its last location if it has fallen out of range. LiveSight, Nokia’s augmented reality technology recently integrated in the HERE series of apps, will be available for more easily orienting oneself to the object. Users will be able to activate an alarm to more easily locate the object, too.
In terms of usability, Treasure Tag is ostensibly rated for six months of “always on” usage, and will be inexpensive enough to replace on a bi-annual basis.
The accessory requires Bluetooth 4.0, which Nokia is planning to enable across its entire Windows Phone 8 lineup with the upcoming Amber update, which will begin rolling out shortly.
Source: The Verge
MobileSyrup may earn a commission from purchases made via our links, which helps fund the journalism we provide free on our website. These links do not influence our editorial content. Support us here.
