Samsung has introduced the IoT card, a credit card that is compatible with SmartThings Find, the company’s own version of Find My. Currently available only in South Korea through a partnership with KB Kookmin Card and American Express, Samsung has not yet announced plans to offer a similar service in the US.
The IoT card functions just as you would expect. By adding it to SmartThings Find, Samsung devices are able to detect its location and provide feedback to the card owner, much like Apple’s Find My feature. This feature works regardless of whether the card is nearby or if the owner has left it in another country. To accomplish this, Samsung utilizes Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) technology, as opposed to ultra wideband, which is also supported by SmartThings Find.
While the IoT card is currently limited to South Korea, there are alternatives available in the US. For example, individuals can choose to use an Apple AirTag or Samsung SmartTag, which can be placed in their wallet for tracking purposes. Moreover, numerous tracking alternatives of varying shapes and sizes exist as well. The effectiveness of these options depends on whether they rely on UWB, BLE, or both. UWB enables precision finding, which BLE lacks, and the tracking network used also impacts their functionality.
It is worth noting that not all tracking devices are created equal. For instance, AirTags generally perform well, but there have been instances where second-generation AirPods Pro fail to appear in Apple’s Find My app.
In conclusion, Samsung’s IoT card offers a convenient solution for individuals in South Korea who want to ensure the security of their credit card. Meanwhile, individuals in the US can explore alternative options such as AirTags or SmartTags, which provide similar functionality. However, it is important to consider the specific technology and tracking network employed by these devices to determine which one best suits individual needs.
