The Ultimate Guide to AngelSense GPS Trackers

AngelSense is a wearable GPS tracker designed specifically for children and adults with special needs. With robust tracking capabilities, two-way communication features, and alerts for unexpected location changes, AngelSense aims to give parents peace of mind while allowing their loved ones more independence.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about AngelSense, including:

How Does AngelSense Work?

AngelSense is a small, wearable device that uses cellular data and GPS to pinpoint the wearer’s location in real-time. It comes with a mobile app that shows the location on a map and allows for various customizations and alerts.

Here are some key things to understand about how AngelSense works:

• Continuous Tracking: AngelSense provides constant location updates, especially when in transit. It can detect small deviations from normal routes.
• Indoor Tracking: AngelSense utilizes WiFi hotspots to enable indoor tracking in buildings like schools. This allows for more precise indoor locations.
• Geofencing: You can set up custom safe zones around home, school, or anywhere you define. If your loved one leaves or enters a zone, you get an immediate alert.
• Alerts: Receive alerts for unexpected stops, deviations from routes, late arrivals, etc. AngelSense learns routines over time.
• Two-Way Communication: Make calls to the device wearer or listen in on the surroundings using the mobile app.
• SOS Button: Built-in SOS button allows the wearer to discreetly request help when needed.
• Activity Monitoring: Track steps taken and monitor activity levels at different locations.

AngelSense Product Lineup

AngelSense currently offers two main products:

AngelSense GPS Tracker

This is AngelSense’s original tracking device. It is a small rectangular device about the size of a smartphone. The latest version is 50% smaller than the original model.

Features:

• Real-time GPS tracking
• Indoor tracking via WiFi
• Geofencing and alerts
• Two-way voice calling
• Listen-in audio monitoring
• SOS button
• Step counter
• Fall detection
• Up to 48 hour battery life

Cost: $229 for device, $33-$53/month for service

AngelSense GPS Smartwatch

AngelSense recently launched a GPS smartwatch built specifically for older kids and adults. It includes all the core AngelSense features plus some smartwatch capabilities.

Features:

• All features of AngelSense tracker
• Watch face to display time
• Make calls directly from watch
• 16 hour battery life

Cost: $179 for device, $33-$53/month for service

Both AngelSense devices require a service plan subscription. There are month-to-month, 1 year, and annual prepaid plans available.

Benefits of Using AngelSense

There are many potential benefits that make AngelSense a top choice for parents of special needs children or caregivers of elderly individuals prone to wandering.

Detailed Tracking and Monitoring

AngelSense provides some of the most detailed location tracking capabilities on the market. The constant updates and intelligent alerts offer an unparalleled level of insight into a loved one’s whereabouts and daily patterns. This can provide peace of mind, especially for high-risk individuals.

Geofencing and Alerts

With AngelSense, you can set up custom safe zones around home, school, or anywhere you define. If your loved one leaves or enters a zone, you get an immediate alert. You can also be alerted to unexpected stops or deviations from normal routes.

Indoor Tracking

The indoor tracking features make AngelSense unique. Using WiFi hotspots, it can pinpoint location inside buildings like schools, stores, healthcare facilities, and more. This provides an added layer of monitoring.

Communication Features

The two-way calling allows you to communicate with the wearer as needed. You can reassure them, provide instructions, or assess if help is needed. The listen-in function also lets you hear what’s happening around them.

Designed for Special Needs

AngelSense is designed specifically with the needs of autistic and disabled children in mind. The wearable accessories and options cater to sensory issues. It provides independence while keeping them safe.

SOS Button

The built-in SOS button gives kids and elderly loved ones a way to discreetly call for help when needed. If they feel scared, unsafe or need assistance, they can press the button to notify caregivers.

Limitations of AngelSense

While AngelSense excels in many regards, there are some limitations to consider:

Expensive Monthly Fee

While packed with features, AngelSense is one of the pricier monthly subscriptions, starting at $33/month for annual prepaid. The month-to-month plan is $53/month. This cost should be factored into your budget.

Short Battery Life

The constant location tracking drains the battery more quickly. Light use gives about 24 hours, but heavy use can reduce it to 12-18 hours. Remembering to charge it daily is key.

Potential Discomfort

Some individuals, especially those highly sensitive, may dislike wearing the device or find it uncomfortable. Offering wearable options can help, but discomfort could be a limitation.

Audio Quality Variability

The audio monitoring quality depends on device placement and ambient noise. It may not always be completely clear. The speaker loudness also varies.

No Waterproof Option

The AngelSense device itself is not fully waterproof. It is splash-resistant, but you need to add a waterproof case for activities like swimming.

What Ages is AngelSense Suitable For?

AngelSense can work for a wide range of ages, from young children through adulthood. Some guidelines on appropriate ages:

• Young Children: The AngelSense tracker can be worn comfortably by kids as young as 4-5 years old. The magnetic straps keep it securely attached.
• Older Children: The new AngelSense smartwatch is ideal for older children ages 10 and up. The watch form factor appeals more to this demographic.
• Teenagers: AngelSense provides enough independence for teenagers while still giving parents monitoring abilities and two-way communication.
• Adults: AngelSense can also be worn by elderly adults susceptible to wandering due to dementia, Alzheimer’s or other cognitive conditions.
• All Ages: The AngelSense tracker is designed to be sensory-friendly for users of all ages with autism or developmental disabilities.

No matter the age, the device should be introduced gradually and worn intermittently at first to get accustomed to having it on. Adjusting settings like speaker volume can make it more tolerable over time as well.

What Are Alternative Options to AngelSense?

For those looking at other options beyond AngelSense, here are some good alternatives to consider:

• Jiobit: More affordable monthly cost and slim, discreet design. Lacks audio features.
• GizmoWatch: Affordable smartwatch option through Verizon. Less robust tracking features.
• TickTalk: Full-featured smartwatch with video chat, but more limited tracking.
• Apple AirTag: Affordable upfront cost, but no monthly service or audio.
• Other GPS trackers: Many options like LandAirSea, Optimus, and Trax offer solid GPS tracking without some of the more advanced AngelSense features.
• Smartwatches: Traditional smartwatches like Apple Watch provide communication and tracking via a built-in app. More limited capabilities.

AngelSense still remains the premium option for real-time tracking, indoor tracking, wandering alerts, and audio monitoring. But there are more budget-friendly alternatives based on your specific needs and priorities.

Getting Started With AngelSense

Here is a step-by-step overview of getting started with AngelSense after purchase:

1. Download the AngelSense app for your smartphone and set up an account using your provided login credentials.
2. Fully charge the device for at least two hours before first use.
3. Turn on the device and allow it to acquire a GPS signal outside or near a window.
4. Take a short drive with the device to allow it to connect to local cell towers and WiFi hotspots.
5. Introduce your child or loved one to wearing the device, starting slowly and building up duration.
6. Customize monitoring zones, alerts, notifications, and audio settings in the app.
7. Respond to alerts and utilize audio monitoring features to stay in contact, as needed.
8. Designate emergency contacts who can access tracking link, if required.
9. Keep device charged daily and bring charger along when traveling.

Within 2-3 weeks, AngelSense will have learned routines, built maps, and established monitoring zones – providing fullest capabilities. But it provides excellent tracking from day one.

Tips for Getting The Most From AngelSense

To really maximize the value and usefulness of AngelSense, keep these tips in mind:

• Gradual introduction of wearing the device prevents discomfort. Make it a routine.
• Position it comfortably for best audio monitoring quality. Test this out.
• Bring chargers anywhere you travel to prevent battery dying.
• Utilize wearable accessories like pouches and armbands to increase comfort.
• Customize alerts to reduce false alarms based on your situation.
• Take advantage of school mode to turn off audio monitoring during school hours.
• Use device diagnostics feature to monitor battery and connections.
• Enable runner mode for real-time tracking if a loved one wanders off.
• Check the activity tracking insights to see if your loved one is getting exercise.
• Use geofences strategically around key locations to be notified of arrivals/departures.
• Contact AngelSense support if you have any issues getting set up or need help customizing.

AngelSense Pricing and Plans

AngelSense offers several pricing options:

Device Pricing

• AngelSense Tracker: $229
• AngelSense Smartwatch: $179

Service Plans

• Month to Month: $64.99/month
• 1 Year Contract: $49.99/month
• Annual Prepaid Plan: $44.99/month ($539.88 billed annually)

Other Fees

• Activation fee: $19 (1 year contract), $59 (month to month)
• Taxes
• Shipping
• Accessories like armbands and belts

AngelSense also occasionally offers promotional discounts on the device and service plans. Buying through insurance sometimes lowers the monthly costs as well.

Additional services like replacement devices or lost parent keys incur added fees. But there are no overage fees – features like audio monitoring include 60 minutes per month.

AngelSense Accessories

AngelSense offers various accessories to make wearing the device more comfortable and customized:

• Magnetic Pins: Attach device to clothing, bags.
• Belt Clip: Clips onto waistbands, straps, pockets.
• Watch Band: Secures smartwatch model. Adjustable.
• Armband: Wraps around wrist or ankle.
• Lanyards: Wear around neck.
• Belt: Customizable belt with pouch.
• Pouches: Waterproof carrying cases.
• Patches: Customize with contact info.
• Undershirt: Special compression shirt with device pocket.

Having options like pouches, clips, shirts, and armbands allows you to tailor the wearing experience and cater to sensory issues. The accessories are affordably priced between $5-$25.

AngelSense Customer Support

AngelSense provides responsive customer support through:

• Live Chat on their website during business hours
• Phone Support with 24/7 emergency line
• Email from support team
• Family Advisors provide personalized 1-on-1 guidance
• Service Plans include 30-60 minutes of live support
• Onboarding Specialists help you get set up
• How-To Videos show you how to use all features

Their team has specialized experience with autism and other conditions. They can advise you on best practices for introducing and wearing AngelSense based on your situation. Don’t hesitate to utilize their support.

AngelSense Review: Conclusion

AngelSense delivers a sophisticated level of tracking and monitoring tailored specifically for children and adults with cognitive disabilities or prone to wandering.

The real-time GPS location tracking both outdoors and indoors provides unparalleled oversight capabilities and peace of mind. Two-way calling and listen-in features facilitate remote caregiving.

While the monthly subscription cost is higher than competitors, many parents find the capabilities and customized sensory-friendly wearables worthwhile for their needs. For those requiring 24/7 monitoring, location history, and geofencing, AngelSense satisfies these needs like few other solutions can.

If you have someone at risk of elopement or getting lost, and want robust communication ability, AngelSense can provide indispensable protection and independence. While not right for everyone, it fills an important niche.

Before deciding, you may want to review AngelSense versus competitors like AirTag and Jiobit to make sure it has the right set of features for your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions About AngelSense

Does AngelSense require a monthly fee?

Yes, AngelSense requires an ongoing monthly service fee starting at $44.99/month. There are also options for 1-year and month-to-month plans.

Is AngelSense covered by insurance?

Sometimes, yes. Some insurance providers like Medicaid will cover AngelSense if you get a prescription and submit claims. Contact your provider.

Can adults use AngelSense too?

Yes. AngelSense works very well for elderly adults at risk of wandering due to Alzheimer’s, dementia, or other cognitive conditions.

Is AngelSense completely waterproof?

No. The device itself is splash resistant but not fully waterproof. You can add waterproof pouches for swimming or water activities.

How long does the AngelSense battery last?

It depends on usage, but expect 12-24 hours typically. Constant GPS monitoring drains the battery faster. Charging nightly is recommended.

Does AngelSense have monthly contracts?

No, there’s no term contract. You can pay month-to-month or save with an annual prepaid plan. There’s also a 1 year contract option.

What are some alternatives to AngelSense for pets?

Some top GPS pet trackers include Whistle, Tractive, and Findster. There are also smart collars like Fi and Halo.

And those are the key questions and answers about the AngelSense GPS tracking device! It provides advanced monitoring for special needs, but isn’t right for everyone. Weigh the pros and cons carefully for your situation.