Since January 1st, 2023, the GPS functionality of I LOCK IT can no longer be used in Switzerland. The reason for this restriction is the shutdown of the corresponding mobile network in Switzerland.
When we developed the I LOCK IT GPS Tracking Service in 2019, and we had a variety of technologies to choose from:
2G - very good network coverage across Europe, inexpensive, compact chips
3G - good network coverage, but already announced plans for network shutdowns
4G - very good network coverage, expensive, energy-intensive, large chips
NB-IoT, LTE-M - poor network coverage, no roaming, networks still under construction
Based on the options available at the time, we therefore decided to integrate 2G mobile communications technology. This technology enabled us to bring a product to market that works in all European countries and at an attractive sales price. A shutdown of the 2G network was not yet foreseeable in 2019 and it is currently not possible to predict when other countries will follow suit.
What does this shutdown in Switzerland mean specifically for the use of an I LOCK IT bicycle lock?
- You can continue to use your lock via the I LOCK IT app or handheld transmitter
- The acoustic alarm will still be triggered and you will receive a notification within Bluetooth range
- You will not receive alarm notifications outside of Bluetooth range and will not be able to see live GPS locations of your bike