GPS Watch Helps Parents Track Their Kids

An electronics firm has unveiled a wristwatch device that helps parents stay in touch with young children. It's aimed at people who think their kids are too young to have a smartphone.

Filip Technologies says its watch, which is called the 'FiLip', is aimed at children aged 4 to 11.

Although the FiLiP watch uses smartphone technology, it only performs a few functions and has just two buttons. (Source: myfilip.com)

Pressing one button will place a phone call. However, the child can only choose between one of up to five pre-programmed numbers.

The phones using those numbers can also call or text the device. The child can't make or receive calls to or from anyone else. They also can't write their own text messages.

Watch Offers Precise Location Tracking

Parents can use an app on their own smartphone to track where the child is located at any time. The FiLip watch uses a combination of GPS and WiFi technology to give the most precise location possible.

A parent can also set up a designated "safe zone" on a map and get an automated alert if a child leaves the area. Alternatively, the parent can set up the safe zone as a destination and get an alert once the child arrives at that location.

There's also an emergency button, which automatically sends a text message to all five pre-programmed numbers when pressed. The button also provides adults with a link to the child's location and begins calling each of the numbers in a pre-set order.

Phone Can Call '9-1-1' If Needed

If none of the pre-programmed contacts answer that emergency call the device places an automated call to emergency services. However, any parent who sees the alert can press a button on their own phone app that will instantly direct emergency responders to the child's location.

The FiLiP watch will cost less than $200, though the official price hasn't been set. There will also be a monthly fee to access the watch's service (provided by AT&T) though again precise prices have not yet been set. (Source: att.com)