Instead of aligning with these tech giants, Life360 is launching "Find with Life360," a service designed to rival Apple's Find My network and Google's Find My Device tracking.
By partnering with Hubble Network, Tile is forging its path as an independent alternative in the global location tracking arena.
Track your Tile Bluetooth trackers in the Life360 app. Find the stuff your family uses (and loses) the most on Life360 with Tile™ Bluetooth trackers. Attach Tiles to everyday essentials like bikes, keys, soccer bags, and more. Then link your Life360 and Tile accounts for free and see everyone and everything that matters in one place — your Life360 map.Life360
Competing with Apple, Google
Life360, the owner of Tile, has opted for satellite connectivity instead of teaming up with tech giants. The Verge reported that their new service, "Find with Life360," aims to compete with Apple's Find My network and Google's Find My Device tracking.
This move positions Tile as an independent alternative, offering global location tracking through a partnership with Hubble Network, a satellite company. With Hubble's satellites, Tile trackers will soon be able to locate items beyond the range of cellular connectivity, catering to both Android and iPhone users.
Hubble plans to expand its satellite fleet, aiming to launch 94 more satellites by 2028. The new service will be compatible with upcoming Tile Pro and Tile Slim devices, set to debut in the latter half of 2024.
Hubble reports the operation of two satellites currently, with intentions to deploy an additional 94 satellites by 2028. The forthcoming Tile Pro and Tile Slim, set for release in the latter part of 2024, will be compatible with the Find with Life360 network.
Safety Concerns
Concerns about safety and privacy persist despite the extended coverage of Life360's network, which includes Bluetooth tracking devices.
Although Life360 ceased the sale of exact user location data in 2022, it faces a potential class action lawsuit filed last year alleging the unauthorized sale of data without user consent.
Additionally, victims of stalking filed another class action lawsuit last year, accusing Life360 of inadequate safety features and running advertising campaigns that promoted stalking.
Tile introduced "Scan and Secure" 2023 as an anti-stalking feature, allowing users to detect nearby Tile trackers. However, the complaint highlights concerns that users can disable this technology, potentially leaving victims without recourse or protection.
Previous tests conducted revealed the potential misuse of devices like AirTags. However, Apple has since implemented significant enhancements, including louder sound alerts and iPhone notifications when an AirTag is detected to be moving with someone other than its owner.
Additionally, Apple and Google jointly announced the launch of support for a new industry specification called "Detecting Unwanted Location Trackers," which operates across both iOS and Android platforms.
Life360 revealed last May the signing of a non-binding letter of intent with Hubble Network, as reported by PR Newswire. This agreement aims to establish Life360 as the exclusive consumer application utilizing Hubble's revolutionary satellite Bluetooth technology.
Through this collaboration, Life360 intends to harness Hubble's extensive satellite infrastructure along with its own vast network comprising over 66 million smartphones worldwide.
This marks a significant advancement in location tracking, potentially surpassing the capabilities of existing finding networks offered by tech giants like Apple and Google.
