Just two years after the launch of its predecessors, the Galaxy SmartTag2 has returned with a design upgrade and substantial feature enhancements based on user feedback.

Samsung Newsroom sat down with Dalwon Kim and Kiyoung Kwon, Product Planners of the Galaxy SmartTag2 at Samsung Electronics, to discuss key aspects of the product and its improvements.

▲ (From left) Dalwon Kim and Kiyoung Kwon, Product Planners of the Galaxy SmartTag2

Rugged Design: IP67-Rated Usability With Metal Loop

Building off valuable user insights gathered during the launch of the Galaxy SmartTag and Galaxy SmartTag+, the Galaxy SmartTag2 was developed with a focus on the user experience to improve comfort and increase satisfaction.

The most noticeable change with the Galaxy SmartTag2 is its design — reducing the product size and thickness resulted in a more portable device. The new metal loop improves functionality and adds an air of sophistication to the product.

▲ The Galaxy SmartTag2 Silicon Case (sold separately) allows users to carry their devices safely and conveniently.

“After analyzing thousands of reviews of the previous iterations, we noticed some feedback about minor inconveniences that affect the user experience,” explained product planner Dalwon Kim. “Our goal for this version was to create a design that is smaller, lighter and attachable anywhere. We also wanted to make sure the battery was not easily removable. We took outdoor activities into account and made specific improvements to enhance the product’s durability, such as adding IP67-rated water- and dust-resistant features.”[1]

Added Convenience With Compass View and Lost Mode

Improving the features of the all-new Galaxy SmartTag2 began by asking how the company can allow users to make the most out of their Galaxy SmartTags in any environment. By harnessing the global network of Galaxy products, Samsung was able to strengthen Galaxy SmartTag’s versatility and utility through two features — Compass View and Lost Mode.

“The Galaxy SmartTag2 has evolved significantly to make it applicable in a wider variety of scenarios,” said Kim.

▲ Dalwon Kim explains the features of the Galaxy SmartTag2.

The Galaxy SmartTag2 still operates with Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) and Ultra-Wideband (UWB) technology, a feature originally adopted for the Galaxy SmartTag+.

Taking a deeper look at what’s new, Compass View is an upgraded feature available on the Galaxy SmartTag2 and takes the Find function to the next level.

When using Compass View on the Galaxy SmartTag that relied solely on BLE, users had to physically move closer to lost items to strengthen the signal. However, the new Galaxy SmartTag2 builds upon the innovations of its predecessors and introduces a more intuitive way[2] for users to locate their belongings by displaying both the direction of and distance from the misplaced object.

“With the Galaxy SmartTag+, users had to monitor the signal strength to gauge their proximity to items and then tap Find Using Camera before turning the mobile device around,” explained Kim. “Through Compass View on the Galaxy SmartTag2, the direction and distance to the lost item are automatically displayed when you reach a certain distance — an arrow icon appears on the screen, pointing in the direction of the item. It’s as simple as using a compass.”

▲ The Galaxy SmartTag2 can also be attached to bags and luggage.

The Galaxy SmartTag2 also introduces Lost Mode,[3] a new feature powered by near-field communication (NFC) technology that will be handy in a variety of situations. If Lost Mode is activated and someone with a NFC-compatible device discovers a lost item, they can scan the Galaxy SmartTag2 — allowing them to access the owner’s contact information and any personalized messages.

Extended Battery Life: Up to 500 Days of Usage

The Galaxy SmartTag2 boasts an impressively long battery life[4] — offering approximately 500 days of continuous use or more than double that of its predecessors. When the new Power Saving Mode[5] is activated, the battery life can stretch to 700 days or more than four times that of the previous versions. “Although Galaxy SmartTags are designed to track both locations and lost items, most users primarily utilize them for location tracking. We introduced the Power Saving Mode to cater to this preference,” said Kim.

▲ Kiyoung Kwon explains the product features of the Galaxy SmartTag2.

“One of the most common points raised in user feedback was related to battery life,” said product planner Kiyoung Kwon. “Our primary objective was to extend battery life — ensuring it could span several months or more.”

Compared to the Galaxy SmartTag+, the Galaxy SmartTag2 offers a longer battery life at a more affordable price point. “This achievement was made possible by implementing a new chipset solution and improving software mechanisms,” he emphasized.

Strong Security Features and Unauthorized Tracking Detection

The main goal of the Galaxy SmartTag2 is to assist users in locating their cherished belongings. However, it is crucial to recognize that location-tracking services can be exploited.

To prioritize user safety and privacy, the Galaxy SmartTag2 incorporates robust security features through Samsung Knox. “Galaxy SmartTag2 location data cannot be accessed without the user’s consent, and all user data is encrypted and safeguarded by Samsung Knox. Furthermore, location data is shared only with individuals designated by the user,” explained Kim.

▲ Using the “Unknown tag alerts” feature can prevent misuse of the Galaxy SmartTag2.

The Galaxy SmartTag2 can also detect unknown Galaxy SmartTags in the vicinity to alleviate concerns about unauthorized tracking. “Unknown tag alerts,” a feature within SmartThings Find,[6] identifies any unregistered Galaxy SmartTags nearby and sends a notification[7] to alert the user against unauthorized tracking.

“This feature offers assurance and an added layer of security,” said Kwon. “Regardless of the device, users are provided with transparency to help avoid misuse of the Galaxy SmartTag.”

Why 23% of Users Opt for Multiple Galaxy SmartTags

Users familiar with the Galaxy SmartTag recognize its practicality. For every 100 people who own a Galaxy SmartTag, 23 people own two or more. This number has more than doubled since last year and continues to grow.

The upgraded Galaxy SmartTag2 is expected to be adopted by an even larger user base for a wider range of applications. Kim and Kwon, the minds behind the product, underscore the Galaxy SmartTag2 as a mobile accessory that offers “peace of mind.”

▲ (From left) Product planners Dalwon Kim and Kiyoung Kwon

“We’ve improved the product’s features with a strong focus on enabling users to conveniently locate their lost valuables from a distance,” said Kim. “I’ve heard of cases where the Galaxy SmartTag was used to catch thieves and prevent other crimes, which made me very proud as a product planner. We will continue to do our best to create products that users can continuously rely on wherever they go.”

“I hope that the Galaxy SmartTag2 can become an integral part of people’s lives,” said Kwon. “I want the Galaxy SmartTag to be the first solution that crosses people’s minds when they need to find their lost belongings.”

Summary

• Determine location of nearby Galaxy users through Galaxy SmartTag regardless of distance
• Battery life extended to 500 days
• Find lost items from a short distance with UWB technology-based Compass View feature
• Newly added Lost Mode feature
• Discover unregistered Galaxy SmartTags and prevent unauthorized location tracking
• 23% (23 out of 100) of Galaxy SmartTag owners use more than two

[1] The Galaxy SmartTag2 is rated as IP67. Based on lab test conditions for submersion in up to 1 meter of freshwater for up to 30 minutes. Not advised for beach, pool use or soapy water. Water and dust resistance of device is not permanent and may diminish over time.

[2] For the Galaxy SmartTag2, Samsung account log-in and registration on SmartThings Find is required. The Galaxy SmartTag2 needs to be paired with ultra-wideband (UWB)-enabled Galaxy smartphones with Android 11 or higher to fully function. Accuracy may be reduced if there’s an obstacle between you and the tag, such as when the tag is inside a drawer, behind a wall or in a car.

[3] Contact information and message shown on Lost Mode must be registered beforehand on the SmartThings app.

[4] Battery life is based on results from internal lab tests for typical usage pattern scenarios conducted by Samsung. Tested with results from a pre-release version of the device using inbox CR2032 battery. Actual battery life may vary depending on different usage patterns, environmental conditions, the replacement battery manufacturer, and other factors.

[5] Non-Power Saving Mode, expected battery life under typical usage conditions is up to 500 days. Power Saving Mode is limited to basic Bluetooth finding functions (for example, Search Nearby signal indicator and map).

[6] Non-Galaxy users can access the “Unknown tag alerts” feature in the SmartThings app’s settings.

[7] Users must have the “Unknown tag alerts” feature activated to receive notifications of unregistered Galaxy SmartTags.

“We are constantly looking at ways to make people’s lives more convenient through Samsung Galaxy’s industry-leading innovations,” said Jaeyeon Jung, Executive Vice President and Head of SmartThings, Device Platform Center at Samsung Electronics. “With the Galaxy SmartTag2, we set out to make sure Samsung Galaxy users can find their belongings in an easy and intuitive way. With an enhanced finding experience and a longer battery life, Galaxy SmartTag2 will provide users with greater peace of mind for longer and in more situations.”

Intuitive Features Make Finding Lost Items Easier Than Ever[1]

Galaxy SmartTag2’s brand-new Lost Mode[2] allows users to input their contact information via a message. Then, anyone who discovers an item with a Galaxy SmartTag2 attached can use their smartphone to scan the tag and see the owners’ message and contact information. This means a Galaxy SmartTag2 attached to a pet’s collar is now a convenient way to ensure the pet owner’s phone number is always there, in most places where the pet might wander. Lost Mode works with any mobile device with NFC reader and web browser.

Galaxy SmartTag2 now provides an improved Compass View feature, enhancing the user experience by providing arrows to show the direction and distance of the Galaxy SmartTag2 in relation to the user. This mode is available on any UWB-supported Galaxy smartphone, such as the Galaxy S23 Ultra[3].

The SmartThings Find app has also been upgraded, with newly registered Galaxy SmartTags that now installs a shortcut to the app on the user’s smartphone, allowing users to launch SmartThings Find more quickly. Additionally, the app now features a full screen map view and an intuitive interface, making the user experience even more seamless.

Finally, when switching Galaxy smartphones, SmartTag2 now automatically re-syncs your Galaxy smartphone using your Samsung account.

New Modes Mean Longer-Lasting Battery[4]

Users can now enjoy Galaxy SmartTag2 for longer with the brand-new Power Saving Mode, available alongside an improved Normal mode. For users who rely on SmartTag to continually track items, Power Saving Mode is the perfect option to maintain battery life while ensuring you can keep an eye on your things. With Power Saving Mode, Galaxy SmartTag2’s battery now lasts up to 700 days, more than twice as long as previous Galaxy SmartTag models. Even in Normal Mode, battery life is now extended to 500 days, a 50% increase on previous models. With the flexibility to switch between two modes, users can track their valuables – from car keys to bikes – for longer.

Sleek Design Adapts to Even More Conditions and Brings More Use Cases

Galaxy SmartTag2’s new compact size and ring-shaped design was created with ease of use in mind. The large metal loop enhances product durability by using metal on the inside of the ring for greater resilience that can support accessories such as clips and keyrings. These accessories can also attach to bags and luggage.

Galaxy SmartTag2 also supports a new pet walking mode, making it easy for users to log walks with their furry friends.

Peace of Mind, Repackaged

Galaxy SmartTag2 retains many of the popular features from Galaxy SmartTag and Galaxy SmartTag+. It takes advantage of both Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) and UWB capabilities, leveraging Augmented Reality (AR) Find technology to visually guide users toward their item using their Samsung Galaxy smartphone camera. In addition, Galaxy SmartTag2 works within maximum Bluetooth range of 120 meters.

Samsung remains committed to securing the privacy of Samsung Galaxy users, with the device’s location only to be made available with the user’s permission. SmartThings Find also encrypts user data and is supported by Samsung Knox for an extra layer of security. Furthermore, disabling Lost Mode immediately hides the owners’ contact information and wipes the message left by the owner from the device.

For Samsung Galaxy users, SmartThings Find can also provide security through its “Unknown tag alerts” feature. This feature alerts users of any unauthorized tracking by sending them a notification if SmartThings Find detects an unknown SmartTag following them. This helps protect users and prevent against the abuse of location tracking services.

Galaxy SmartTag2 also works seamlessly with SmartThings Station, which is integrated with SmartThings Find – serving as an always-at-home device scanner – helping users keep track of valuables that have a SmartTag attached. SmartThings Station will notify users of the location of their tagged item – from personal items like TV remotes, wallets, keys and registered devices like smartphones, tablets, watches and earbuds. Pet owners will also receive an alert when a tagged collar moves too far from the SmartThings Station, helping them keep furry friends close to home.

For more information, please visit: https://www.samsung.com/my/mobile-accessories/galaxy-smarttag2-black-ei-t5600bbegww

[1] For Galaxy SmartTag2, Samsung account log-in and registration on SmartThings Find is required. Galaxy SmartTag2 needs to be paired with ultra-wideband (UWB)-enabled Galaxy smartphones with Android 11 or higher to fully function. Accuracy may be reduced if there’s an obstacle between you and the tag, such as when the tag is inside a drawer, behind a wall, or in a car.

[2] Contact information and message shown on Lost Mode must be registered beforehand on the SmartThings app.

[3] Current Galaxy products that support UWB include Galaxy Note20 Ultra, Galaxy S21+, Galaxy S21 Ultra, Galaxy S22+, Galaxy S22 Ultra, Galaxy S23+, Galaxy S23 Ultra, Galaxy Z Fold2, Z Fold3, Z Fold4, Z Fold5

[4] Battery life is based on results from internal lab tests for typical usage pattern scenarios conducted by Samsung. Tested with results from a pre-release version of the device using inbox CR2032 battery. Actual battery life may vary depending on different usage patterns, device model, or the battery manufacturer.

As the smart home market continues to grow, users need simple, interoperable and dependable ways to connect a more significant number of devices. SmartThings Station offers quick setup and compatibility with a range of smart home products, including Matter devices, with the simplicity that users expect from Samsung. With SmartThings Station, users can automate different aspects of their home environment, setting routines that add convenience to their day and help to reduce energy waste such as switching off lights and appliances easily.

“Having a smarter home shouldn’t be complicated or expensive. So we wanted to create SmartThings Station as a simple, reliable and expandable smart home hub,” said Jaeyeon Jung, Executive Vice President and Head of SmartThings, Device Platform Center at Samsung Electronics. “The number of devices in a connected home continues to grow, especially in light of the recent Matter standard launch. We’re proud to play a role in making it easier to embrace this exciting technology.”

A Smarter Home With Minimal Effort

Samsung’s SmartThings Station is easy to set up. When a user powers the device on for the first time, pop-up messages will appear on a user’s Samsung Galaxy smartphone to help guide users through the connection process smoothly.[2] Users may also choose the option to efficiently onboard devices with a simple scan of a QR code[3] with a smartphone camera.

Intuitively Adapts to Users’ Daily Routines

A smart home hub helps multiple devices, including thermostats, lighting and power outlets, seamlessly interconnect with other devices connected to the smart home server so they all work together to create a harmonized environment. SmartThings Station makes it easy to automate pre-set routines created via the SmartThings mobile app without requiring users to control individual devices manually.

With a press of the Smart Button on the SmartThings Station, users can activate a routine created on their SmartThings app. For example, when it’s time for bed, a quick tap could trigger a routine for sleep — which could turn off the lights, close the blinds and lower the temperature. Or, if a movie night is on the cards, a movie routine could turn on the TV and dim the lights. When leaving home, the SmartThings Station can turn off power outlets and unused appliances to save energy and activate a security system. Users might also want a gaming routine, which could activate specific TV and lighting settings and turn on “Do not Disturb” mode.

Consumers can trigger up to three different routines just by pressing the Smart Button, with short press, long press or double press activations. Routines can also be activated via the SmartThings app whether people are at home or away.

Find and Manage Your Devices Around Home More Accurately

SmartThings Station is also integrated with Samsung’s SmartThings Find, a rapidly growing asset tracking service. It helps users to find misplaced devices — double pressing the Smart Button can ring your nearby phone, making it easier to find.[4]

Serving as an always-at-home device scanner, SmartThings Station helps Samsung Galaxy users to keep track of the locations of their registered devices — from smartphones, tablets, watches and earbuds to personal belongings such as keys or a wallet that have a Galaxy SmartTag or SmartTag+[5] device attached. By routinely scanning for devices, SmartThings Station will tell users the location of connected smart devices or tags around the home and share an alert on the user’s smartphone when a tag or device leaves or returns home.[6]

A Fast Charging Pad That Fits Perfectly in a Smart Home

SmartThings Station is also a powerful charging pad supporting up to 15W wireless charging.[7] Fast charging is an ingenious addition to a smart home hub because it works so well with the rhythms of life. Users can choose to receive an alert when charging is completed so they can pick up play where they have left off or switch to charge another device.

Availability

SmartThings Station will launch in the U.S. and Korea. The device will be available in black or white from early February 2023 in the U.S. market.

[1] Up to 15W wireless charging is available for devices that support 15W. Actual charging speeds may vary by device and depending on usage charging conditions and other factors.

[2] Available on Samsung Galaxy Smartphones with SmartThings app installed.

[3] Only for Matter devices with a QR code.

[4] Requires turning on the feature on the SmartThings app. Users also can turn off the feature or replace it with other routines or trigger both simultaneously.

[5] Galaxy SmartTag/SmartTag+ sold separately.

[6] Requires set-up on the SmartThings app.

[7] Wireless charger requires power connection.

“We’re incredibly proud of how quickly the SmartThings Find service has grown in less than a year, helping people all over the world locate hundreds of thousands of misplaced devices every day,” said TM Roh, President and Head of Mobile Communications Business at Samsung Electronics. “SmartThings Find is yet another example of how Samsung is continuing to create meaningful new experiences that help make life more convenient and less stressful.”

The fast-growing SmartThings Find service enables users to pinpoint registered Galaxy smartphones, smartwatches, earbuds and even S Pen Pro, as well as personal belongings—like keys or wallets—that have a Galaxy SmartTag or SmartTag+ device attached. SmartThings Find, a standout feature of the SmartThings ecosystem, uses Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) and ultra-wideband (UWB) technology to locate misplaced devices. Even if the device is offline, other Galaxy users can opt-in to enable their Galaxy smartphone or tablet to help others find nearby lost devices. 

SmartThings Find is continuing to evolve with the addition of the newly launched SmartThings Find Members service, which now enables users to invite friends and family to become members of their SmartThings account, so they too can find and manage their devices. Users can now invite up to 19 other people to become members and locate up to 200 devices at once. Once someone has accepted your invitation to SmartThings Find Members, you can opt for them to be able to view your selected devices and locations for specific devices, all upon your consent.

SmartThings Find Members is particularly useful for families, as they try to keep up with pets or keep track of their car keys—even if they don’t have their phone with them.

For more information about the SmartThings app and SmartThings Find service, visit: www.smartthings.com/partners/smartthings-find.

About SmartThings
SmartThings is the premier technology enabling connected living and driving the future of IoT. Its open platform already supports thousands of devices across hundreds of brands and offers endless possibilities to innovators and developers seeking seamless connectivity in a vast IoT ecosystem. The company is committed to bringing smart functionality and capabilities everywhere consumers want to be, while enhancing the user experience. There are currently millions of people in more than 200 countries accessing SmartThings technology daily to create automations and control facets of their smart homes via the SmartThings App and through a range of Samsung products such as phones, TVs, and digital appliances. SmartThings offers the most flexible amount of protocols, including the new IoT standard, Matter. Launched in 2012, SmartThings is headquartered in Mountain View, CA and is a founding board member of Connectivity Standards Alliance, an organization of hundreds of companies creating, maintaining, and delivering open, global standards for the IoT. For more information, please visit www.smartthings.com.

Users of the latest Galaxy A Series devices can now seamlessly and securely share music with their friends’ Galaxy devices and Galaxy Buds thanks to such features as Music Share and Buds Together, removing the fuss of switching Bluetooth connections or sharing earbuds.

You can also keep tabs on your belongings, from your Galaxy devices to your wallets to your pets, with the new SmartThings Find and Galaxy SmartTag features, which let you check your items’ locations easily and quickly.

Learn more about the awesome new range of Galaxy ecosystem and connectivity features available on the latest Galaxy A devices in the videos below.

On January 19, Samsung Electronics launched Galaxy SmartTag, a gadget to take the pain out of misplacing your personal items. Measuring slightly less than 4cm by 4cm and weighing only 13 grams, the Galaxy SmartTag can be attached to keys, luggage or any of your other personal belongings to make them easily trackable on your smartphone.

How to Use the Galaxy SmartTag

Before you can use your Galaxy SmartTag, it first needs to be connected to your smartphone¹.

Simply press the button in the middle of the SmartTag, and then press it once more when prompted by your smartphone. You will then be able to see the location of the tag on a map using SmartThings Find in the SmartThings app and use features like navigation to locate the tag or have it emit a chime.

[Found it!] ① Car Keys Under the Sofa

You’re late for work, but the car keys you left on the shelf aren’t there anymore. You check your bag and your pockets, but the keys are nowhere to be found! You pick up your smartphone and open SmartThings Find. Once you press ‘Ring’, a beeping sound starts coming from under the sofa²– the last place you would have thought to check! Thanks to SmartTag, you make it to work on time.

[Found it!] ② Smartphone Stuck Down the Side of the Bed

You’re sure you left your smartphone on the bed, but after doing some housework you come back to find that it’s not there. There’s no one home who you can ask to call your phone, and even if there were, you left your phone on silent mode! You’re left with no choice but to search the entire house.

Luckily for you, your Galaxy SmartTag can also be used to locate your smartphone by activating the ‘locate smartphone with Tag’² feature to make your phone emit a sound. You press the button on your SmartTag twice, and your smartphone starts beeping, allowing you to locate it trapped between the mattress and the bed frame.

[Found it!] ③ My Dog, the Troublemaker

“Ding-dong”. When he hears the doorbell, your dog Buddy races to the door. As nice as it is that he greets visitors, he sometimes gets out while you’re receiving a delivery.

Once again, Buddy escapes the moment you open the door and runs off down the street. Fortunately, you’ve attached a SmartTag to Buddy’s collar. When the Galaxy SmartTag is near your smartphone, it uses Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) technology³ to provide the location of the tag. If the tag is not near your phone or Bluetooth is disconnected, it uses other nearby Galaxy smartphones to detect the SmartTag signal and help you locate what you have lost. You open the map in SmartThings Find, navigate to the designated pin, and find Buddy waiting in front of the bakery.

[Found it!] ④ Using your Galaxy SmartTag to Operate Home Appliances

You’re heading out, and have already gotten to your car when you remember that you forgot to turn off the air purifier in the house. Instead of heading back in, you just press the button on the Galaxy SmartTag hanging from your bag.

The Galaxy SmartTag is useful not only for locating items, but also in remotely controlling your smart devices. Through the SmartThings app, users can set functions to be executed when the tag button is pressed once briefly, and when it is pressed and held.² Once you set up other devices in the ‘Mode’ menu of the SmartThings app⁴, you will be able to control multiple appliances with your SmartTag.

The Galaxy SmartTag is a compact, easy-to-use solution that helps you protect your possessions, from small objects to your most valuable belongings. If you are prone to misplacing things and want to take better care of your belongings, the Galaxy SmartTag is for you.

¹ Availability may vary by market and carrier. Available on Galaxy smartphones and tablets running Android 8 or later.

² Available only when both Galaxy SmartTag and your Galaxy smartphone are connected.

³ The Bluetooth range of the Galaxy SmartTag is up to 120 meters in an environment with no obstacles. Actual performance may vary depending on the environment.

⁴ Only possible to control devices that are registered on the SmartThings app

By placing a SmartTag on your keychain, wallet or even your family pet’s collar and connecting your Galaxy devices, you can easily locate your most treasured items. For even more customization, Samsung SmartTags have a button that you can turn into a controller for your smart home devices. In this video, we’ll give you some tips on how to use SmartTag and SmartThings Find.