Kiwi team successfully crowdfunds as-a-service global tracking device

Tech startup magpie is set to rid the world of the anxiety and cost of losing things with its new, unlimited-range GPS mobile tracking service.

Magpie will be offered as a service for as little as $5 month to anyone contributing to its Kickstarter campaign and includes an app and a free GPS device that is one of the smallest and smartest on the market

It will be offered as a monthly, low-cost subscription service, making the business of tracking things more affordable and accessible to anyone anywhere in the world where there is a cellular network.

At the time of publishing, the campaign has raised more than double its $10,000 goal, with 516 backers and 28 more days to go.

In addition to curbing the mounting anxiety and costs linked to losing valuable possessions, magpie provides peace of mind by keeping tabs on children and pets.

The device's sleek, waterproof design, unlimited range, and rechargeable, long-lasting battery, combined with the intuitive functionality of its companion app, makes the magpie service an attractive and affordable tracking option.

Losing things is big business

A survey by an insurance company shows the average person misplaces up to nine objects per day, which means 200,000 misplaced items by age 60.

Another study estimates that we spend 15 minutes per day looking for lost items on average.

"We believe magpie will not only revolutionise the location tracking industry but also how we find and watch over the people and things we care about most," says co-founder Raul Oaida, who worked with award-winning Japanese designer Keiji Takeuchi to create a device that aims to be both beautiful and practical.

Oiada continues, "Other bluetooth devices are limited to their short-range tracking capabilities.

"With magpie, its unlimited range means it's there whenever you need it, connecting you to the people and pets you love and the everyday items you need.

Behind the scenes at magpie

With magpie, Raul, Derek and Calum have the opportunity to combine their expertise in technology, media, and startups to revolutionise the industry.

The three co-founders, who are based between New York, Thailand and New Zealand, hope to create a global community who share a common interest in not only owning this device but also in investing in creating a product that can bring value to many. "And on the more serious side," says Derek, father of a four-year-old son, "parents with small children can rest easier when using magpie.

"As a parent, I am acutely aware of the dangers surrounding small children who may wander off or go missing.

How magpie works:

• With its built-in SIM card, magpie has an unlimited range, using cell towers and GPS to accurately and reliably find a location across international borders. This is different from bluetooth trackers that are limited to 30 metres from a user's phone:  magpie works just as well whether it's one km or 1000km away.
• magpie operates using "Smart Power Management - Progressive Beaconing," meaning the device is aware of its position and surroundings. Therefore, it can detect and memorise patterns, optimising its own battery life based on the individual user. A single charge can last up to three months.
• To put magpie into use, download the magpie app and pair the device to your phone by squeezing it.