Kizon: LG launches child-tracking device with GPS and Wi-Fi signals

LG has unveiled the Kizon, a wrist-worn device designed to let parents keep track of where their child is and listen to what they are up to.

The Kizon uses GPS and Wi-Fi signals to identify the wearer’s location and sends the information to an Android app.

LG is targeting the device at families with pre-school and primary school children.

However, others have raised concerns about the idea.

LG is not the first to market such a device – start-ups including KMS Solutions, Tinitell and Filip have announced similar products – however, the South Korean company’s launch marks the entry of a tech giant into the sector.

The company says the Kizon can run for up to 36 hours between charges, is water resistant and works with 2G and 3G cellular networks.

The wearer can call a pre-configured phone number by pressing a button on its front.

The button also allows the child to accept calls from approved numbers, and if they fail to press it within 10 seconds the device will automatically let the caller listen in to the machine’s built-in microphone.

LG said it planned to launch the device in South Korea this week, and introduce it to Europe and North America before the end of September.