A new device called Findster that uses global positioning system technology to track and locate a user during emergencies is being developed by a team of inventors based in Portugal.

Findster sets itself apart from similar devices by using proprietary RF technology to give the user much longer range than Bluetooth. Among Findster's competitors are Amber Alert GPS and the FiLIP smartwatch for children.

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Findster is unique in its method of using technology to locate a person's coordinates. Instead of relying on the limited range of Bluetooth and a mobile service providers, Findster allows long-range bi-directional communication between two devices, one held by parents or another person, and the other by the missing person.

The Findster team claims they have a functioning prototype and should begin shipping devices in April around the world. Those who pre-order the device only have to pay US$99 for two modules and their charger.

The full set of devices that include a base station costs US$250

The concept for the team's GPS tracker came after a team member, Virgilio Bento, searched for a cheap location finder for his pet dog that got itself lost from time to time. Bento is a university professor with a Ph.D. in electrical engineering.

He was able to find numerous devices but was disappointed the majority of the higher-quality GPS trackers came with a monthly fee. Bento would only use the device occasionally.

The professor made the decision to build a new system along with the Findster group. The partners quickly realized the technology could be used for more than just finding missing pets.

"People with kids told us, that is perfect for my kids. And we thought, okay, maybe we have a different segment here that's important to acknowledge," he said of the device's transition to the potentially more profitable "kid tracker" industry.

Findster can also be used to track and find missing pets.

TagsGPS, GPS Tracker, children, pets, technology, Wearable devices, Smart watch