Why Aren’t Children’s Clothes Equipped with GPS Tracking?

The lost and found story of children is often a combination of public awareness, smart technology, and sometimes, sheer luck. While the idea of integrating GPS tracking into children’s clothes might seem like a no-brainer, there are several factors that make it less practical than it appears.

The Cost-Austria Gap

One of the primary arguments against GPS tracking in children's clothes is the cost. While GPS technology has become more affordable over the years, the cost of production for everyday clothing is relatively low in comparison. In most cases, the additional cost of incorporating advanced tech into a garment would outweigh its benefits for a product that is frequently replaced and relatively cheap to produce.

Alternatives to Consider

For parents concerned about their children going missing, there are viable alternatives:

Emergency-Only GPS Devices: These devices can be used in emergency situations, providing a reliable way to monitor a child’s location without the constant expense of a full tracking system. “Find My Friends” App: This app allows teens to share their location with trusted friends or family members, providing a layer of accountability and security without the privacy concerns associated with older children or adults.

Privacy Concerns and Practicality

One of the significant drawbacks of placing GPS tracking in children’s clothes is the potential for discomfort and the added privacy concerns. Clothing is meant to be worn, and the presence of GPS technology might make some garments uncomfortable or ill-fitting. Moreover, there are practical considerations such as battery life and charging requirements.

Infrastructure and Privacy

Implementing a widespread GPS tracking system in children’s clothes would require a significant infrastructure investment. While the idea of monitoring every child’s location might seem appealing, the technical and economic feasibility of such a system are questionable. The IT infrastructure required for such a system presents an interesting problem but offers no tangible returns in terms of safety or security.

Removing the Tracked Clothing

Another critical issue with GPS tracking in children's clothes is the possibility of removal. Criminals could easily remove the device to avoid detection. This undermines the effectiveness of the technology as a security measure and makes it a less reliable option.

Conclusion: A Feel Good Measure?

While the idea of GPS tracking in children’s clothes might seem like a straightforward solution to the problem of children going missing, it is ultimately a feel-good measure that is a fundamental waste of effort and resources. There are more effective and practical alternatives available, such as emergency-only GPS devices and trusted apps, which provide similar benefits without the drawbacks.

It is crucial to consider the practical aspects of implementing such systems, including cost, privacy, and effectiveness. Until a solution addresses these challenges, GPS tracking in children’s clothes remains a topic of conversation rather than a realistic solution.