The suitcase that finds itself

A sophisticated beacon device called Track&Go that can be built into suitcases to allow users to track their luggage easily and privately has been introduced by Samsonite.

The Bluetooth beacon uses Eddystone Ephemeral Identifiers (EIDs), an open privacy/security protocol by Google. Samsonite aims to launch the first cases featuring it at the end of this year in Europe, with other international markets following.

The company says the technology could be extended to a broader range of business and travel bags next year.

The introduction follows figures showing 24.1m pieces of baggage were mishandled – temporarily or permanently lost – worldwide in 2014. 

The Bluetooth beacon built into the Track&Go suitcase has to be registered by the owner through the Travlr by Samsonite app, which has been developed together with mobile agency In the Pocket and is available free.

The app was launched last September to offer flight tracking, tips and reminders when travelling.

The Track&Go feature will be built into the app and users will be able to check the location of a case within a distance of 70m and also be notified if it is being moved closer or further away.  www.samsonite.co.uk

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