Handheld Device Offers Mobile Emergency Service
Written on Saturday, November 29, 2008
I have come across today a new device that MobiWatch Inc. has recently launched. This new device is a 'handheld emergency device' that allows people in need to quickly and easily call for help via their mobile phone.
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In addition, this is smaller - meaning also easier to lose - harder to find in a pocket full of things or worse in handbags. This means it is also an extra device to carry and keep track of (i.e. not forget or lose).
I can imagine the same solution could be combined with a Bluetooth hands free headset, which would also combine two functions in one, and is something we already keep track of. Why not even add voice recognition software so that you can even whisper in it a keyword and it dials the number, or voice-triggered by screaming if you get attacked.
The thing is that though I like the idea of such a device, what MobiWatch is launching is only half-way there and leaves a lot to be desired. I'm in fact even a bit surprised someone hasn't already implemented and launched such a solution, but I might just not know about it yet.
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MobiWatch spent two years engineering the Bluetooth connections and arranging partnerships with Sprint Nextel Corp. for the connectivity, and Cambridge-based emergency response service provider ProEMS Solutions Inc. to support the device. The company is now preparing to bring the product to market, and the device, which has been beta-tested with Sprint, is expected to launch in early 2009. The monthly service fee is expected to be priced between $6 and $10 per month.I liked the idea, because the product comes to fill a need. However, if I put myself in the position of the person in need, I don't think it would be much different getting the phone out of my pocket and pressing on the speed dial button and using this device.
The device itself is a keychain fob with a dime-sized button guarded by a plastic slide so it can’t be pressed inadvertently. During a perceived or real emergency, opening the slide and pushing the button initiates a Bluetooth connection to a user’s cell phone, which in turn calls an emergency response call center. An operator can then pinpoint a caller’s location using GPS and cell tower triangulation, and contact the appropriate parties, be they police, ambulance or family members. A subscriber can also pre-register special instructions, such as medical allergies or instructions for specific emergencies.
In addition, this is smaller - meaning also easier to lose - harder to find in a pocket full of things or worse in handbags. This means it is also an extra device to carry and keep track of (i.e. not forget or lose).
I can imagine the same solution could be combined with a Bluetooth hands free headset, which would also combine two functions in one, and is something we already keep track of. Why not even add voice recognition software so that you can even whisper in it a keyword and it dials the number, or voice-triggered by screaming if you get attacked.
The thing is that though I like the idea of such a device, what MobiWatch is launching is only half-way there and leaves a lot to be desired. I'm in fact even a bit surprised someone hasn't already implemented and launched such a solution, but I might just not know about it yet.
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mobile services
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Hello, Thanks for the interest in Mobiwatch. To respond to a couple of your comments, our primary market is woman and our research has shown that most are not fans of bluetooth headsets. In our research, respondents actually suggested the key features of our MobiFob--particularly that it be attachable to their key ring as many women keep keys in hand as a rudimentary self-defense mechanism. Further, our device does not need to be recharged like a headset, so it's always ready. For women on campuses, social workers, realtors, car sales people and just about anybody, our service provides peace of mind on a daily basis--and can save a life.
We do anticipate licensing our technology to headset manufacturers who partner with us, for those that prefer a combination device in the near future.
And, finally, for those that want our service but do not want to carry an extra device, the first time you pair our MobiFob, it automatically sets one of your phone's speed dials to our service number. So, if a subscriber does not carry our device, they still have one touch activation on their mobile phone.
Thanks for the mention,
Jonathan Sieg
CEO, Mobiwatch
jsieg@mobi-watch.com
Great way of using new technologies to help people.
In order to convert the information so that it is available on these handheld devices, it needs to use a programming language that can be universally recognized.
Handheld devices show promise in the field of emergency telecommunications for detection of basic orthopedic injuries and interracial hemorrhage. Further investigation is warranted.