ESR Geo Wallet with Apple Built-in Find My Review

The ESR Geo Wallet is a new product that combines the functionality of a traditional wallet with Apple’s Find My technology that is associated with the popular Apple AirTags.

It is currently available to be back on Kickstarter, with prices starting at around £32, and shipping will start in September.

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Specification

• Dimensions: 115 x 90 x15mm
• Weight: 86g
• Material: Faux Leather
• Battery: Lithium Polymer Battery
• Battery Capacity: 110 mAh
• Charging Time: 2 hours
• Battery Life: 5 months
• Chip: ANQIDA

Design

The ESR Geo Wallet sports a minimalist design that should appeal to those who prefer a slim profile.

I am not a huge fan of the faux leather this uses. While I can appreciate the trend of moving away from animal leather, this particular wallet feels a bit plasticy. I am sure that with a bit of wear, it will improve, and considering the price, you can hardly expect ultra-premium materials. The wallet feels well-made and durable, so it should still last a long time.

The wallet is also available in black, which should suit most users’ preferences.

The wallet’s interior is thoughtfully organised, featuring multiple card slots and a central pocket for cash or additional cards. The layout allows for easy access to frequently used cards while keeping others secure.

One potential drawback of the design is the lack of a coin pocket. I personally prefer a wallet without coin pockets as this helps maintain the wallet’s slim profile, it might be inconvenient for users who frequently carry loose change.

The main feature is the built-in ANQIDA chip, which enables compatibility with Apple’s Find My network. This integration allows users to locate their wallet using the Find My app on their iPhone, iPad, or Mac.

Set-Up

Setting up the ESR Geo Wallet with Apple’s Find My network is a straightforward process. After unboxing the wallet, users need to ensure it’s fully charged using the provided magnetic charger. Once charged, the wallet can be added to the Find My app on an iPhone or iPad running iOS 14.5 or later.

To add the wallet to Find My, users should open the app, tap the “Add Item” button, and follow the on-screen instructions. The process typically involves holding the wallet near the device and waiting for it to be detected. Once added, users can customise the wallet’s name and icon within the app.

It’s worth noting that the initial setup might take a few minutes, and users should ensure their device’s Bluetooth is enabled for a smooth pairing process.

Performance

The ESR Geo Wallet’s primary selling point is its integration with Apple’s Find My network, and in this regard, it performs perfectly well. The wallet can be located using the Find My app, which displays its last known location on a map.

The Find My integration also allows users to play a sound from the wallet, making it easier to locate when it’s nearby but out of sight. This feature works well, with the sound being loud enough to hear from a reasonable distance.

I rarely carry my wallet with me nowadays and this inevitably means I never know where my wallet is. I have used things like Tile Slim card trackers before, and they work well, but the battery isn’t replaceable, and I don’t fancy spending £24 every couple of years just so I don’t lose my wallet in my house.

With this wallet, I have been able to find my wallet on several occasions within a minute or two, thanks to the high accuracy of the Apple Find My technology and the handy audible sound.

In terms of everyday use, the wallet functions as expected. The card slots hold cards securely, preventing accidental slips. The faux leather material seems durable, showing minimal wear and tear after extended use.

The RFID blocking feature adds an extra layer of security, protecting cards from potential skimming attempts. While the effectiveness of RFID blocking is debated, its inclusion provides peace of mind for security-conscious users.

Battery

The ESR Geo Wallet’s rechargeable battery is a significant advantage over other tracking-enabled wallets that rely on disposable batteries. ESR claims a battery life of up to 5 months, which seems reasonable based on typical usage patterns.

Charging the wallet is simple, thanks to the included magnetic charger. The charging process takes approximately 2 hours, which is relatively quick considering the extended battery life. However, the proprietary nature of the charger means users need to be careful not to misplace it, as replacements might not be readily available.

While a USB-C port would have been more convenient, it’s understandable why ESR opted for a magnetic charger given the wallet’s slim design. The trade-off between a standardised charging port and maintaining the wallet’s sleek profile seems reasonable.

It’s worth noting that battery life may vary depending on usage patterns and environmental factors. Users who frequently trigger the sound feature or use the wallet in areas with poor network coverage might experience shorter battery life.

Price, Availability and Alternative Options

The ESR Geo Wallet is competitively priced, with an RRP of $55. At the time of writing, it was available to back on Kickstarter, with deliveries expected from September 2024. Early backers could secure the wallet for just $41, representing excellent value for money.

Compared to other tracking-enabled wallets, the ESR Geo Wallet offers a compelling package. Its direct integration with Apple’s Find My network sets it apart from competitors that rely on proprietary tracking systems.

For those who prefer a MagSafe-compatible option, ESR offers the ESR MagSafe Wallet with Find My built-in, priced at £43.22. This alternative might be more suitable for users who frequently attach their wallets to their iPhones.

The Miroddi MagSafe Wallet, priced at £33, offers a more budget-friendly option but lacks the aesthetic appeal of the ESR offerings. For those willing to spend more, the Journey LOC8 MagSafe wallet, priced at £60, provides a more premium look and feel while still incorporating Find My technology.

Verdict

The ESR Geo Wallet offers a clever blend of traditional wallet functionality with modern tracking technology. Its integration with Apple’s Find My network provides peace of mind for users prone to misplacing their belongings.

I am not overly fond of the faux leather, but I like the overall design, and I am a fan of slim wallets in general.

The wallet’s strengths lie in its seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem, long battery life, and competitive pricing. The RFID blocking feature and rechargeable battery add to its appeal, making it a well-rounded package for tech-savvy users.

James Smythe( Editor-in-chief )

I am James, a UK-based tech enthusiast and the Editor and Owner of Mighty Gadget, which I’ve proudly run since 2007. Passionate about all things technology, my expertise spans from computers and networking to mobile, wearables, and smart home devices.

As a fitness fanatic who loves running and cycling, I also have a keen interest in fitness-related technology, and I take every opportunity to cover this niche on my blog. My diverse interests allow me to bring a unique perspective to tech blogging, merging lifestyle, fitness, and the latest tech trends.

In my academic pursuits, I earned a BSc in Information Systems Design from UCLAN, before advancing my learning with a Master’s Degree in Computing. This advanced study also included Cisco CCNA accreditation, further demonstrating my commitment to understanding and staying ahead of the technology curve.

I’m proud to share that Vuelio has consistently ranked Mighty Gadget as one of the top technology blogs in the UK. With my dedication to technology and drive to share my insights, I aim to continue providing my readers with engaging and informative content.