These days it seems like everything is coming out in a ‘smart’ version. Smart bikes, smart lights, smart… well, you get the picture. Smart helmets are also becoming a thing, but there are different goals and ways to go about it depending on who you talk to. The latest offering from Saphibeat is less about playing music inside your helmet and more about keeping you connected, and therefor safe in case of an emergency. Also, because it’s not part of the actual helmet, it can be removed and placed on different helmets in your gear closet to keep tabs on you during whatever adventure you’re about to set off on….
One of the biggest differences between the PhiPAL and other helmet monitoring systems is that PhiPAL has the option to work even when you’re off the grid. Divided into two products, the PhiPAL works only on the cellular grid, while the larger PhiPAL PRO works off cellular and satellite grids which can pinpoint your exact location and send for help in the back country. Both use an array of motion and other sensors to detect accidents to automatically send emergency SOS calls, or they can be sent manually through connected devices. The device can also be used for performance tracking and to create breadcrumb trails for others to follow.
Features vary between the two levels slightly, but the biggest differences include battery life, subscription costs, and the size. The standard PhiPAL is smaller and has better battery life, but the PhiPAL PRO has the obvious advantage of satellite connectivity. Both devices also carry two batteries – a main battery and an emergency battery which is helped out by an energy conservation mode to extend ping time in emergency scenarios.
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/saphibeat/phipal-turn-any-helmet-into-a-smart-helmet
Another product launching through a Kickstarter, the PhiPAL is still available for the Super Early Bird price of $99, or $199 for the PhiPAL Pro. As evidenced by our post earlier this week on Brim Brothers though, pledge with caution.
