SwitchBot’s new tracker could help save you from threats by sending you a ghost call

Want to feel a little safer while walking alone at night? Or maybe you’re looking for an easier way to unlock the door to your smart home. SwitchBot has launched a new gadget that can do both.

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That’s an intriguing and innovative safety feature! The device you are referring to is the SwitchBot Safety Alarm (sometimes called a tracker or fob).

The “ghost call” feature is designed to provide a discreet way to exit an uncomfortable or potentially threatening situation by giving you a socially acceptable excuse to leave or distract a person.

Here’s how the feature works:

• The Device: It’s a small, keychain-sized personal safety fob/tracker.
• The Trigger: When you feel the need to escape a tense situation, you simply double-press the button on the Safety Alarm fob.
• The Action (The Ghost Call): Double-pressing the fob instantly triggers an incoming call to your phone. Crucially, the call will cause your phone to ring out loud, even if the phone is set to silent or vibrate mode.
• The Purpose: This provides an immediate, believable distraction. You can then say, “Sorry, I have to take this call,” and quickly leave the area or defuse the situation.

In addition to the ghost call, the SwitchBot Safety Alarm includes other safety features:

• Loud Siren and Strobe Light: If you pull the ring on the device, it activates a very loud 130 dB siren and a flashing LED strobe light for a maximum deterrent effect.
• Contact Alerts: When activated, it can be set to ping your designated contacts with an alert and your location via the SwitchBot app.
• Item Tracking: It also functions as a tracker, utilizing the Apple Find My network for location tracking.