Netstar unveils tracking tag

Altron-owned vehicle tracking and recovery provider Netstar has released Startag, an asset tracking and stolen vehicle recovery (SVR) device.

The device — slightly smaller than pocket-sized — can be attached to assets such as motorcycles, bikes, solar panels, cargo, bags, bins, generators and industrial equipment with the help of a Netstar technician.

The Startag costs R89 per month for a period of 36 months.

It is highly resistant to jamming and can be tracked using the MyNetstar app, which provides map visibility.

To ensure reliable functionality, the Startag is dust and water-resistant and is equipped with over-the-air (OTA) functionality allowing for remote updates.

It is also capable of failure reporting and installation testing. Additionally, it relies on Netstar’s radio-frequency network and global system for mobile-based systems to ensure timely updates.

Netstar said the Startag is a step outside its traditional market and into tracking non-motorised assets such as vehicles and trailers, which it says will boost its recovery efforts in case of theft.

“Over the past 12 months, we have created a vehicle-to-vehicle mesh network which will
revolutionise the stolen vehicle and recovery industry,” said Netstar group managing director Grant Fraser.

“As we launch Startag, we are not just introducing a new SVR and asset tracking product, we are empowering our customers and this allows Netstar to expand its market reach and protect a diverse range of high-value items.”

Startag will compete with products such as Apple’s AirTag and Samsung’s Galaxy Smart Tag2 in the South African market.

However, Netstar offers recovery support, which boasts a 90% recovery rate, and a 24-hour call centre.

The Startag is also geared towards outdoor conditions and tracking vehicles, resulting in a more rugged design and a battery life of up to three times that of the Galaxy Smart Tag and AirTag.

Unlike the Startag, the AirTag and Galaxy Smart Tag2 don’t use a subscription model and cost R739 and R499, respectively.