Comparing Smart Tags

In this article, we will cover the basics of the Smart Tag concept. We will try to explain the differences between similar technologies. Finally, we will briefly touch on some Bluetooth Smart Tag products.

"Smart tag" is a term generally used as a tag or sensor that is specifically assigned to an object or a person and can communicate with various devices using wireless communication technology.

When the concept of "smart tag" is mentioned, the first type of tag that comes to mind is a small tag that is produced using NFC (Near Field Communication) technology and can interact with various devices. These tags can transmit information wirelessly when brought near an NFC-enabled device such as a smartphone or tablet.

For example, a smart tag might contain a person's name and phone number at a workplace. When an NFC-enabled phone reads the tag, it can automatically save the information it contains in the phonebook. In addition, NFC tags can be used in different applications such as home automation systems.

What are the differences between RFID and NFC?

RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) and NFC (Near Field Communication) are two different technologies used for wireless data transfer. Although they have similar features, there are also some differences.

RFID is a technology that generally works at greater distances and uses radio frequencies to receive and send signals via antennas. This technology is often used in place of barcodes and is used in industrial applications such as product tracking, warehousing and logistics management.

NFC, on the other hand, is a technology that works at closer distances (up to about 4 cm) and is also used in many smartphones. This technology is used to transfer data between two devices quickly and easily. For example, to read an NFC tag, you just need to bring your phone close to the tag.

Also, NFC is a more secure technology than RFID. Because NFC only works over very short distances during data transfer, it is more difficult for hackers to access data. Also, a security key can be used between parties during data transfer in NFC, ensuring data protection.

Therefore, NFC is mostly used in applications such as consumer products and mobile payments, while RFID is more preferred in industrial applications.

What is a Bluetooth Smart Tag?

A Bluetooth Smart Tag is a small device used to track a device's location or find lost objects. It works using Bluetooth technology and can communicate with your phone or any other Bluetooth-enabled device.

These devices are generally used for tracking items such as keys, bags, wallets. For example, a Bluetooth Smart Tag can help you if you lose your keys. With your device's Bluetooth turned on, just be around the tag. The app detects the tag and notifies you of its location.

Also, many Bluetooth Smart Tag devices will notify you when things move, thanks to their motion sensors. So, when someone moves your keys, you will be notified immediately.

Bluetooth Smart Tag manufacturers

Bluetooth Smart Tag is produced by different brands. Some popular brands are:
Tile
Samsung SmartTag
Apple AirTag
Chipolo
Orbitkey
Nutale
Cube Tracker
TrackR Pixel
Ping
Vodeson

These brands cater to the different needs of consumers by offering different prices, sizes and features.

Of course, when examining Bluetooth Smart Tag products of different brands, it is necessary to compare some of their features.

What criteria should we look at?

While examining Smart Tag products, the Smart Tag product we will buy may change depending on the purposes for which we will use it. If we want to keep track of small household items, the Smart Tag product with a low usage distance can be selected.

If there will be Smart Tag applications in a larger area, for example in a business environment, Smart Tag can be selected with longer battery life and usage distance.

If we write some features of two of the above Smart Tag brands, we will understand how to compare:

In terms of connection distance, Ping's connection distance is longer than Tile. Ping can connect up to 200 feet (about 60 meters), while Tile limits this distance to 150 feet (about 45 meters).

In terms of size and design, Ping has a smaller size while Tile has a larger size. Both products are available in different designs and color options.

The fact that certain features of the brands are different allows us to evaluate according to our intended use.

Another comparison is as follows:

Apple AirTag is only compatible with Apple devices. Samsung SmartTag is compatible with Samsung Galaxy smartphones and Samsung SmartThings app. If so, our Smart Tag preference may change depending on the devices we use.

In terms of following distance benchmark: Samsung SmartTag uses Bluetooth 5.0 technology and can track distances up to 120 meters.

Apple AirTag uses a newer technology, the U1 chip.

Bluetooth Smart Tags can make our life easier in many ways

Bluetooth Smart Tags can be used to locate lost or at risk of being lost items. You can tag keys, wallets, bags, pets or other items with a Bluetooth Smart Tag. When your belongings are lost, you can find them using the app of the Bluetooth Smart Tag.

Bluetooth Smart Tags can position at short distances. For example, with a Bluetooth Smart Tag you can record where you parked the car or bike. Then you can find where your car or bike is using the Bluetooth Smart Tag's app.