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Norwegian startup XPLORA has announced its latest wearable product called the XPLORA GO ahead of the MWC 2019 in Barcelona. The new device is technically a location tracker equipped with a display and featuring a smartwatch face design. It can be paired with a variety of accessories for different use cases. It can become a smartwatch when paired with a case and strap, but it can also be placed in a protective case and worn by pets.
The range of accessories will be able to transform the XPLORA GO according to the user’s needs, with the company claiming that it has five main use cases. For children and senior citizens, the XPLORA GO can be paired with one of two smartwatch straps, each featuring a different exterior design and range of color options appropriate for its target audience.
Additionally, the XPLORA GO can be paired with a frame designed to be attached to assets such as luggage and laptops or can be placed inside a protective case and double as a dog tracker. A fifth accessory takes the shape of a bottle holder for bicycles, complete with a special slot in which the XPLORA GO tracker can be safely placed.
As far as specifications go, the device offers GPS and location tracking, along with mobile and Wi-Fi connectivity. As a result, it allows users to geofence areas, i.e., set virtual geographic boundaries and be notified whenever the tracker exits the designated zone. The module also carries an S.O.S. button and connects to a new XPLORA mobile application. Additionally, it comes preloaded with different user interfaces designed for each of the five use cases, and users can easily switch between them by swiping on the touchscreen.
The XPLORA GO tracker will be released in April through the startup’s official website as well as partner retailers including Amazon. The standalone module will launch for £69.99 ($91), while additional accessories will become available in various bundles with a starting price of £17.99 ($23).
XPLORA’s first product launched in 2016 as a smartwatch for kids and the company claims that the wearable was the result of several years of research and development. Since 2016 the company’s product portfolio continued to grow and now includes numerous other devices in various categories. The Norwegian startup will be present at Mobile World Congress in Barcelona next week and attendees will be able to experience its products first-hand at Hall 8.0, Stand H37.
It’s not entirely clear whether the new XPLORA GO will be demonstrated at the event in Barcelona but XPLORA confirmed that it will bring a wide variety of devices to MWC, including its previously-launched smartwatches for both kids and seniors, along with accessories, power banks, cameras, and speakers.
Even its Hovershoes which became available for purchase earlier this month will be available for testing on the MWC show floor. Despite the moniker, however, they don’t have the ability to defy gravity and instead rely on the good old wheel design coupled with electrical motors offering a range of up to 10Km on a single charge.
