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Consumer Expectations for Embedded GPS Trackers

GPS has evolved from military-grade tech to a daily necessity, now embedded in various products. This shift has heightened consumer expectations for GPS devices. Today’s users want accuracy, long battery life, and easy integration with other techs, all while prioritizing privacy and security. Understanding and addressing these needs is essential for manufacturers to create reliable, successful GPS-enabled products.

GPS has come a long way. It was once cutting-edge tech for the military and pricey navigation gear. Now, it has become a standard tool in our everyday lives. GPS solutions are now embedded into a wide range of products, and it’s something we often take for granted. This high level of familiarity has created ingrained consumer expectations.

Today’s consumers want accurate, reliable, easy-to-use GPS tech that integrates easily with other technology. They also value privacy and security, as they are aware of how tracking solutions can be misused. Knowing what consumers want from GPS solutions is key if manufacturers are to develop and market successful products with embedded GPS.

What Consumers Are Looking For

Consumer expectations for embedded GPS trackers fall into five categories. This includes:

Consumer Expectation 1: Battery Life or Always-On Power Supplies

When potential buyers research tech products, battery life is always a primary concern; after all, a device with a short battery life quickly loses its effectiveness, and constant recharging becomes a burden. This is especially true for products with embedded GPS trackers. Consumers expect a reasonable one-charger tracking time with a GPS device, with longer durations between battery charges. For manufacturers, battery life and power consumption should be primary concerns. For truly embedded GPS trackers hardwiring them directly into the final product’s battery or power source is a win-win.

Energy-saving features, like a low-power mode, ease consumer concerns about battery life. Solar or wireless charging can supplement battery life, and consumers appreciate the convenience. High-capacity batteries are another option but can raise a product’s cost. For a specific class of product, though, high-capacity batteries are worth the expense. Consider an always-on power supply if a GPS device will be installed in a fixed location. That way, batteries can become a backup power source instead of the primary one.

Consumer Expectation 2: Accuracy

Accurate location tracking is a must for all products with embedded GPS today. Buyers have noticed that consumer-grade GPS solutions have become more precise over time. They must trust the tracking information they receive and have little tolerance for inaccurate results.

GPS accuracy in embedded GPS products can be affected by several factors, including signal obstruction, multipath effects, and atmospheric conditions. Therefore, placing the GPS tracker within the final manufactured product is critical to ensure it optimizes the tracker’s accuracy rather than creating challenges.

Consumer Expectation 3: Discreet Placement

Consumers want the ability to discreetly place a GPS-powered device. They feel peace of mind when the device’s placement is not obvious. For example, when the device is well-hidden inside a car, thieves are less likely to find (and remove or disable) it. Knowing that the tracker is embedded inside of a product gives consumers even more confidence about the safety of their investment.

Consumer Expectation 4: Tracking Functionality and Features

Of course, tracking is not the primary use for products with embedded GPS; it is a valuable feature manufacturers can offer their customers. For the tracking functionality, end-users want more than just simple location data.

Whether it’s to share the location of a food truck or aid trailer theft recovery, consumers can share location information with others. Another mandatory consumer feature is the ability to set a geofence and receive notifications if their product leaves the fenced location. These extra features add value to the customer and are a key differentiator for the product.

Consumer Expectation 5: Tracking Platform Security and Privacy Concerns

While consumers love GPS products’ features, they’re also aware of potential security and privacy concerns. They’re worried about their location data and personal information falling into the wrong hands.

They also have concerns about location tracking abuse, which could turn GPS data into a tool for unauthorized surveillance or stalking. For these reasons, consumers may hesitate to share their private data and tracked movements with a third party.

Here are some best practices to follow to prevent breaches and gain consumer trust:

  • Data encryption: Strong encryption methods protect user data, even in the case of a cyberattack.
  • Limited data retention: Manufacturers can implement policies limiting user data retention.
  • Consent: A product with GPS must get user consent before collecting data. Consumers should know when tracking is on and have a way to turn it off.
  • Security updates: GPS manufacturers should monitor the latest security threats and issue appropriate updates to the device and tracking platform.

Addressing Consumer Expectations for Embedded GPS Trackers

As demand for GPS-tracked products grows, so do consumer expectations. Today’s buyers are tech-savvy. Many consumers know about the security and privacy concerns around GPS technology. However, manufacturers can address concerns and develop products that meet consumer expectations. Embedding GPS tracking in products can add real value. But you must keep the consumer and their expectations in mind.