Both Elgato and Pogoplug have released new products this month… and the two gadgets are somewhat out of character, as the companies expand their product lines and seek new customers this holiday season.
Elgato, best known for video-related solutions is trying something completely with their Smart Key ($40). The doohickey uses low power Bluetooth to report its location to an iPhone or iPad, similar to others in this space such as StickNFind. While its primary use case may be attached to a keyring, Elgato also proposes throwing the Smart Key into a handbag or suitcase to keep an eye on one’s belongings. Beyond an iOS app, featuring maps, alerts, and locations you define, the Smart Key itself can generate an audible tone as you search for your misplaced gear. The disc-shaped tracker features a replaceable battery, but it’s not quite clear what sort of longevity one should expect – hopefully a solid year.
Pogoplug, who got their start turning tiny linux machines into hybrid storage solutions has unveiled the Safeplug ($50) network accessory to anonymize web traffic and block ads via one’s home network. Technical details are light at this point and, as the device hangs off a router versus sitting between a cable modem and router, I suspect web browsers, smartphones, and LG Smart TVs will need custom proxy settings to leverage SafePlug’s capabilities.
While I won’t be picking up either, these devices are reasonably priced and sufficiently geeky stocking stuffers for that techie in your life.