The meanings behind the IoT and GPS abbreviations likely require no introduction in today’s world. Similarly, the term "geofence" can be intuitively understood—it essentially refers to a virtual fence designed to ensure that users stay within a defined range, much like the functionality of our mobile devices.
First, we'll briefly introduce the technology and its application areas, then explain how it connects to TP-Link Tapo smart home devices.
Operating Principle
The functioning of a geofence is straightforward: the technology monitors whether devices enter or leave a designated area. These areas are physical locations marked by virtual boundaries. Implementing geofencing requires signal transmitters, which rely on technologies like GPS, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, LoRaWAN, or others to send and receive data.
Application Areas
Geofencing can be utilized across diverse fields and situations. Here are a few examples from the extensive list of active use cases:
- Transportation and Fleet Management: Geofences notify dispatchers when a truck driver departs from a location, arrives at a destination, or deviates from the prescribed route.
- Drone Management/Regulation: At events, airports, or military/government sites, "drone-proof" geofences can halt drones mid-flight, send alerts to operators, or require user permissions for drone operations within restricted zones.
- Enhanced Security for Restricted Areas: If an unauthorized worker attempts to enter a geofenced zone, security services are instantly alerted to the incident.
- Asset Management and Protection: On construction sites, geofences alert site managers if expensive equipment "leaves" a designated area.
- Home Automation and Smart Homes: Upon entering a geofenced area, your smartphone triggers automation, such as adjusting the thermostat, turning on lights, or starting the smart kettle to prepare tea.
Take Control with the TP-Link Tapo App!
If you want home automation to offer more than a basic smart home experience, simply activate the new TP-Link Tapo Geofence feature available with TP-Link Tapo smart home devices! To enable this, you must grant the TP-Link Tapo app (available for Android and iOS) location access. Rest assured, the app does not continuously track your position or share your data with third parties. It only uses this information for automation processes—specifically when you enter or leave the designated geofenced area.
No Need for Complex Software—Geofence is Just a Few Clicks Away!
To activate the Geofence feature in the Tapo app, follow these steps:
- Enable Geofence: In the main menu, click the user icon ("Me") in the bottom-right corner. Select the "Tapo Lab" option and enable "Geofencing."
- Set Up Automation:
- Choose a device, such as a smart switch.
- Navigate to “Smart Actions / Create New Automation.”
- Configure the following:
- “When”: Define the trigger (e.g., entering or leaving a region). Use the map to draw a circular geofence.
- “If”: Add conditions, such as a light switch already being on or off.
- “Then”: Specify actions, such as turning on the lights upon entry.
With these customizable options, you can create efficient automations, like turning on lights when you are 1 km from home or shutting off unnecessary devices when leaving the office. Afterward, other systems like cameras or alarms can activate automatically!
Step beyond your limits!
With geofencing, even more possibilities are at your fingertips than you might think! Don't forget that it can be an excellent tool for marketing purposes, especially if you run a business or store. For instance, when a potential customer walks by your store, you can send a tailored message to their mobile phone, such as: "Come in and take a look!" / "Shop our special offers!" / "Try our services!" It’s important to emphasize that this option can only be used when users consent and opt in for this service.
