Ring, the Amazon-owned camera brand, has just launched a new product called the Pet Tag. This innovative device aims to help pet owners bring their lost pets back home easily and quickly. Unlike traditional collars or tags, the Ring Pet Tag relies on a QR code instead of Bluetooth or GPS functionality.
The Pet Tag attaches to your dog or cat’s collar and features a QR code that can be scanned using the Ring app. When someone scans the QR code, they are directed to a pet profile that contains important information, such as health conditions and an optional “contact me” feature for two-way communication with the pet owner.
One of the key advantages of using a QR code is that it shields personal information like phone numbers and ZIP codes from being displayed on the tag. This helps protect the owner’s privacy while still providing a means for lost pets to be reunited with their owners.
Upon scanning the QR code, the owner receives a push notification and the pet profile is displayed to the person who found the pet. The profile can include up to five photos, the pet’s name, breed, weight, color, unique markers, health conditions, medication details, and microchip numbers.
In addition to the QR code functionality, Ring has partnered with Petco Love Lost to integrate a network of over 2,500 animal shelters across the US into the Ring app, further enhancing the chances of reuniting lost pets with their owners.
It is important to note that the Pet Tag does not include any tracking or wireless features. It simply relies on the QR code. Therefore, it does not offer GPS or Amazon Sidewalk integration, nor does it function like an Apple AirTag. Notably, the Pet Tag prominently displays the Ring logo and the tagline “always home,” effectively turning the pet into a walking advertisement for Ring.
The Pet Tag is currently available for pre-order on Ring.com and Amazon.com, priced at $9.99. It will begin shipping on October 4th, offering pet owners a practical and privacy-conscious tool to help ensure the safe return of their beloved furry friends.
Sources:
- Ring’s Pet Tag relies on a QR code instead of Bluetooth or GPS functionality and makes your cat or dog a walking billboard for Amazon’s camera brand. (The Verge)