LOK8U NUM8-BLUE Child Locator GPS Watch Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I bought this the first day it was available on Amazon.At first I was bummed that it didn't seem to lock onto a signal.I sent it back.

Then a little while later I was told there was a firmware update that fixed the initial issues.If you get your unit and you see horizontal black and white stripes (like a prison uniform) across the screen, don't fret:That's the watch updating before your eyes.

Apparently, this recent update fixes an issue with the watch locking onto a usable cell phone (GSM) signal and making proper use of it.Once it gets a good signal, it's able to partially locate the phone within a certain radius based on cell phone tower locations.That's good enough for a general knowledge of where you kid is.

But I was surprised to discover I was able to get an actual GPS signal from inside a car and in my home.There are limitations, of course.It located the watch in my 12th floor highrise office via cell phone signal (approximated) but not an actual GPS fix.

Also keep in mind that this isn't a James Bond movie watch.You will NOT get a blinking red dot on your computer screen moving across a map with every step your kid makes.The NUM8 is a "pinging" kind of locating device.It will report it's location if you ask it, whether by web portal or SMS (your cell phone), or if the strap is removed or ventures into/out of a defined geo fence.

There is a "live track" feature that sends data continuously say, if the strap becomes detached.Of course, this consumes battery power.

Once you understand the limitations of the technology, it's really quite a wonder.The smallest, kid friendly GPS/GSM device I know of.It really DOES look like a chunky, kids watch in the blue or pink.

However, my son is 4 years old and on the small side.He's only about 35 lbs and 3 feet tall, so the watch looks enormous on his teeny tiny wrists.It fits with the strap at the smallest setting.For this reason, it's impractical for him to wear it until he's a little older.

That said, I highly recommend this item if you're looking for a a tracking device for your child or special needs person.

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Product Description:
nu·m8 (pronounced new-mate) is the world's first and smallest GPS locator device specifically designed with children in mind. nu·m8is a watch that conceals GSM and GPS modules that enable you to locate your child, whenever you feel you need to know, via the internet or through your mobile phone (SMS/Text).

Give Your Kids Freedom... and You Peace of Mind

nu·m8 is the first GPS locator that actually locates your child not just the device through a unique and patented mechanism. Unlike other devices, nu·m8 can not be forgotten in a bag, lunchbox or jacket. Should the nu·m8 watch be removed unexpectedly, you will receive an email and / or SMS alert.
When you register your nu·m8, you indicate the mobile number and email address that it will respond to. Once nu·m8 is on your child's wrist and activated, you can locate them anytime in two ways: 1) Using the customer portal at Lok8u.com and view their current location on a map, OR 2) Receive their location via text message using your mobile phone.
You can also set pre-determined "Safe Zones" for your child to play in. Should they move out of this area you will receive an alert to inform you this has happened. nu·m8 utilizes GPS and GSM technology to locate your child indoors, outdoors, in the US as well as globally.
nu·m8 requires a monthly subscription to the Lok8u pinpoint services in order to send unlimited location requests--via the web or your mobile phone.

Know Where They Are
Simply connect to the lok8u customer portal from your PC or text message from your mobile phone to locate your child, anytime, anywhere.
Instant Alerts if Removed
If the strap of your child's nu·m8 is opened without your authority, an immediate alert is sent via SMS and email to warn you this has happened.
Set Your Own Boundaries
The "Safe Zone" feature allows you to easily set your own defined area by time and day. An immediate alert is sent via SMS and email to inform you if your child strays outside this area.
What's in the Box
nu·m8 GPS Watch (Blue), Desktop Charger, Instruction Guide