We have had similar products to this before with the CHIPOLO which at the time was a let down due to the app failing to connect with any consistency, so I started my test of the Lapa 2 with a degree of scepticism. I downloaded the app (compatible with iphone 4 +, ipad 3rd gen + and Android 4.3 +) synced the Lapa 2 and attached it to my keys without any difficulty, the free app provides a simple enough walkthrough. I gave my boyfriend my keys to hide them up in the house then switched on my Bluetooth to attempt to find them, it took about 15-30 secs to find signal and then it will ask you to move around until it is in range then it’s a case of “close”, “closer”, “almost there” until you find it. it has a range of 60 metres in eyesight but that will be greatly reduced in certain environments, objects and walls can block the signal but when you are in the same room it will let you know.

As well as the app playing a game of hot and cold with you the Lapa device with also emit a 90 decibel tuneful jingle and a flashing LED light to help you find your missing object, you can also check in on the map to see where it was last detected. There are two features we love about the Lapa 2 the first is that you can report an item missing and receive an updated location report when another user passes your item (obviously this will only become successful if the Lapa 2 becomes really popular but it’s an innovative idea) and the second is the safety mode that you can activate and it will let you know if your item goes out of range meaning you have either walked off without it or it has walked off with someone else.

Unlike other trackers you can register as many as you like with your account, share devices with other accounts (for example the car keys can be registered to my account and my partners) and you can change the battery when it dies (a common CR1632 watch battery, life expectancy- 1 year) so you don’t have to replace the entire device. So all in all I was pleasantly surprised with the Lapa 2, sometimes it took a little while to find signal which can be frustrating if you are in a rush, but most importantly it connected every time we tested. RRP $69

4 out of 5

Buy now

Pros

Waterproof and bi-injected with polycarbonate and EPDM making it tough

You can replace the battery

Register an unlimited amount to one account

Safety mode feature

Collar and wrist accessories available for pets, children or even drunken friends

Cons

Only 3 colours available

Report lost function will only work if this product becomes really popular

Can take a while to find signal to connect

Range can be reduced due to environment