Families in Australia now have an innovative solution for monitoring their pets with the launch of the Pet GPS device by the family location-tracking app Life360. This new feature allows users to accurately track the locations of their dogs and cats using satellite and mobile reception technology, functioning similarly to how smartphones operate. Unlike traditional Bluetooth trackers, which are primarily designed for locating inanimate objects, Pet GPS provides real-time updates on pets’ whereabouts, ensuring peace of mind for their owners.
The device includes a light and chime that activate when a pet is marked as lost, making it easier for owners to find their furry companions. It integrates seamlessly with the Life360 app, allowing users to receive notifications if their pet leaves the designated property. This advancement not only enhances the utility of the app for families but also expands its functionality beyond tracking children to include pets as integral family members.
Lauren Antonoff, chief executive of Life360, emphasized the company’s commitment to keeping families connected. “Our mission is to keep families safe and connected, and when people think about their families, that often includes pets,” she stated. Antonoff described the Pet GPS as a significant evolution of the app, transitioning from a platform focused solely on families with children to becoming a comprehensive resource for families at all life stages.
Enhancing Pet Safety and Family Connectivity
The introduction of Pet GPS can potentially attract free Life360 users to transition to paid plans, ensuring continued revenue even after children grow up and leave home. The company is also reportedly developing a tracker for elderly family members who may not carry a smartphone, further broadening the app’s user base.
Antonoff highlighted the advantages of Pet GPS over traditional pet-finding methods. Unlike microchips, which require scanning at veterinary clinics or shelters, this technology enables immediate tracking, empowering owners to locate their pets quickly. “When other people find the dog, it’s not like they can scan the chip with their phone. You’ve got to put the dog in the car, take it to a shelter or a vet. Most people don’t do that,” she explained, reflecting on her personal experience of losing a dog.
With a fully charged battery, the Pet GPS can provide location tracking for up to two weeks, making it a reliable tool for pet owners. The device aims to prevent pets from being lost or captured by strangers, offering a sense of security for families who consider their pets as part of the household.
As the pet ownership landscape continues to evolve, innovations like Life360’s Pet GPS highlight the growing intersection of technology and everyday family life, providing solutions that cater to modern needs. The device effectively addresses a common concern among pet owners and reinforces Life360’s position as a leader in family-centric technology.
