Patent Publication Number: US-11663896-B2

Title: Comprehensive system and method of universal real-time linking of real objects to a machine, network, internet, or software service

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a continuation of application Ser. No. 17/014,895, filed Sep. 8, 2020, which is a continuation of application Ser. No. 16/227,572, filed Dec. 20, 2018, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,769,924, which is a continuation of application Ser. No. 16/005,193, filed Jun. 11, 2018, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,163,318, which is a continuation of application Ser. No. 15/156,726, filed May 17, 2016, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,997,043, which is a continuation of application Ser. No. 14/617,240, filed Feb. 9, 2015, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,366,746, which is a continuation application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/754,607, filed Jan. 30, 2013, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,981,938, which claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/608,429 filed Mar. 8, 2012. The disclosures of each of these applications are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE 
     The disclosure relates to a method of bidirectional linking, connecting, communicating, and tracking objects, and in particular to a method of tracking the position and status of objects using a wireless tag associated with the object and/or an RF-enabled object. 
     BACKGROUND AND SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE 
     A wireless tag to be associated with the object to be linked, tracked, or both is disclosed along with an electronic device for communicating with the tag and updating the information to an external device, such as a computer, network, or the cloud. Information such as, but not limited to time, position (including latitude, longitude, and altitude), speed, direction, temperature, and identification can be transmitted for either real-time linking/tracking and analysis, or a historical view. In one embodiment, the electronic device for communicating with the tag is a cellular phone, a tablet computer, a laptop computer, a pair of electronic glasses, or a watch. 
     In a first exemplary embodiment, a wireless tag for determining the position of an attached physical object or status of an environment in which the tag is placed is disclosed. In one embodiment, the wireless tag includes a power source for providing electrical power to the wireless tag, a radio transmitter and receiver system for wirelessly exchanging data and command with an electronic device, and a user interface including at least one input and at least one output, wherein the electronic device determines the location or status of the electronic device and a status of whether the distance between the electronic device and wireless tag exceeds a predetermined distance and wirelessly communicates data including the time, the location of the electronic device (including latitude, longitude, and altitude), speed and the status. In another embodiment, the electronic device communicates data to the network at predetermined period intervals and/or upon the initiation of a predetermined event. In still another embodiment, the wireless tag has a thickness of about 10 mm or less, and in another embodiment about 6 mm or less. In yet another embodiment, the communication between the tag and electronic device is encrypted. In yet still another embodiment the wireless tag includes one or more sensors having an output reading. In another embodiment, a plurality of tags is provided. 
     In a second exemplary embodiment a system for tracking the position of an object is disclosed. In one embodiment, the system includes a wireless tag including a first radio transmitter and receiver system and a user interface including at least one input and at least one output; an electronic device includes a second radio transmitter and receiver system in communication with the first radio transmitter and receiver system, a user interface including at least one output, a module for determining the position of the electronic device, a module for determining the distance or proximity and/or direction of the tag from the device and also for determining a status of whether the distance between the electronic device and wireless tag exceeds a predetermined distance, and a data transmitter for transmitting commands and data including the position of the electronic device and status of the distance between the electronic device and wireless tag; and an external device receiving the data transmitted by the data transmitter and storing the data in a computer readable storage medium. In another embodiment, the system includes a second (3rd, 4th, . . . , nth) wireless tag secured to a second (3rd, 4th, . . . , nth) object to be linked or tracked, the second wireless tag including a third radio transmitter and receiver system; and a user interface including at least one input and one output; wherein the second radio transmitter and receiver system is in communication with the third radio transmitter and receiver system, the electronic device includes a module for determining the distance or proximity and/or direction of the tag from the phone and also for determining a second status of whether the distance between the electronic device and second wireless tag exceeds a second predetermined distance, and the data transmitter for transmits data including the second status. 
     In a third exemplary embodiment, a method for monitoring the location of an object is disclosed. In one embodiment, the method includes securing a wireless tag to the object, wherein the wireless tag includes a first radio transmitter and receiver system for transmitting and receiving a radio frequency signal; providing a first identification for the wireless tag; associating the wireless tag with an electronic device, wherein the electronic device includes a second radio transmitter and receiver system for transmitting and receiving a radio frequency signal and the electronic device is capable of determining the position of the electronic device; determining the position of the electronic device; providing a second identification for the electronic device; receiving with the second radio transmitter and receiver system the radio frequency signal from first radio transmitter and receiver system; determining with the electronic device the distance or proximity and/or direction of the tag from the phone and also a status of whether the distance between the wireless tag and the electronic device exceeds a predetermined distance based at least in part on the strength or absence of the radio frequency signal; and transmitting data including the first identification, the second identification, the time, the speed, the position of the electronic device, and the status to an external device. In another embodiment, the radio transmitter and receiver systems are Bluetooth transceivers and the tag has a thickness of about 10 mm or less or about 6 mm or less. In still another embodiment, the wireless tag includes an alarm and the second Bluetooth transceiver sends a signal to the first Bluetooth transceiver to activate the alarm or carry out any other predetermined action or command when the status changes because the predetermined distance was exceeded. Alarming or carrying out other actions or commands, could also be initiated by the user, by demand, from any part of the overall system (tag, phone, cloud). 
     In a fourth exemplary embodiment, a method of preventing the loss and/or theft of an object is disclosed. In one embodiment, the method includes attaching a wireless tag to the object, the wireless tag including a first radio transceiver for transmitting and receiving a radio frequency signal and a tag alarm; associating the wireless tag with an electronic device, the electronic device including a second radio transceiver for transmitting and receiving a radio frequency signal and a device alarm, wherein the electronic device is capable of determining the position of the electronic device; providing an allowable distance or range; monitoring the radio frequency signal from the first radio transceiver received by the second radio transceiver and activating the device alarm if the radio frequency signal is broken; monitoring the radio frequency signal from the second radio transceiver received by the first radio transceiver and activating the tag alarm as well as an alarm (or other outputs like light) on the electronic device if the radio frequency signal is broken; and determining with the electronic device a status of whether the distance between the wireless tag and the electronic device exceeds the allowable distance or range based at least in part on the strength or absence of the radio frequency signal; wherein the electronic device activates at least one of the tag alarm and device alarm, determines the position of the electronic device and saves them on the device and wirelessly transmits data including the time, the speed and the position of the electronic device to an external device if the distance exceeds the allowable distance or range. In another embodiment, the method includes wirelessly transmitting data and commands to the external device including the time and position of the electronic device each time the determining step is performed or by demand. 
     In a fifth exemplary embodiment, a method of initiating commands is disclosed. In one embodiment, the method includes providing a wireless tag including a first radio transceiver for transmitting and receiving a radio frequency signal and a tag alarm; associating the wireless tag with an electronic device, the electronic device including a second radio transceiver for transmitting and receiving a radio frequency signal and a device alarm, wherein the electronic device is capable of determining the position of the electronic device; providing a predetermined action(s) to be taken upon receiving a predetermined radio frequency signal (or a combination of signals); transmitting the predetermined radio frequency signal from one of the first radio transceiver and second radio transceiver; receiving the predetermined radio frequency signal with the other of the first radio transceiver and second radio transceiver; and taking the predetermined action. In another embodiment, the method is directed to locating an object by sounding an alarm attached to the object or similarly locating the electronic device by activating its alarm (or triggering other output methods). 
     In a sixth exemplary embodiment, a method of providing a panic alert is disclosed. in one embodiment, the method includes providing a wireless tag including a first radio transceiver for transmitting and receiving a radio frequency signal and a tag alarm; associating the wireless tag with an electronic device, the electronic device including a second radio transceiver for transmitting and receiving a radio frequency signal, and a device alarm, wherein the electronic device is capable of determining the position of the electronic device; transmitting a predetermined radio frequency signal from one of the first and second radio transceivers; receiving the predetermined radio frequency signal with the other of the first and second radio transceivers; activating the tag alarm and device alarm; determining the position of the electronic device; transmitting data including the time, the speed and the position of the electronic device to an external device, carrying out commands/actions on the device and sending commands to the network/cloud; and transmitting data including the time and the position of the electronic device to a predetermined contact(s). In another embodiment, the predetermined contact selected from a list of contacts based at least in part on the position of the electronic device. 
     In a seventh exemplary embodiment, a method of utilizing a series of wireless tags in a promotion, advertising, education, training or gaming embodiment is disclosed. In one embodiment, the method includes providing a plurality of tags, each tag including a tag radio transceiver for transmitting and receiving a radio frequency signal; providing an allowable distance or range and unique identification for each of the plurality of tags; associating each of the plurality of tags with a first electronic device, the first electronic device including a radio transceiver for communicating with the tag radio transceiver; spacing apart the plurality of tags; approaching a first of the plurality of tags with a second electronic device, the second electronic device including a radio transceiver for communicating with the tag radio transceiver and a user interface; determining with the second electronic device a status of whether the distance between the wireless tag and the electronic device is less than the allowable distance or range based at least in part on the strength or absence of the radio frequency signal; providing an alert on the user interface and transmitting with the second electronic device data including the time and tag identification to an external device if the determining step determines that the distance between the wireless tag and the electronic device is less than the allowable distance or range. In another embodiment, the method includes providing a category for each of the plurality of tags and transmitting the category to the external device if the determining step determines that the distance between the wireless tag and the electronic device is less than the allowable distance or range. 
     In an eight exemplary embodiment, a method of monitoring a patient in a health care facility is disclosed. In one embodiment, the method includes attaching a wireless tag to the patient, the wireless tag including a first radio transceiver for transmitting and receiving a radio frequency signal and a tag alarm; associating the wireless tag with an electronic device, the electronic device including a second radio transceiver for transmitting and receiving a radio frequency signal and a device alarm, wherein the electronic device is capable of determining the position of the electronic device; providing an allowable distance or range; monitoring the radio frequency signal from the first radio transceiver received by the second radio transceiver and activating the device alarm if the radio frequency signal is broken; monitoring the radio frequency signal from the second radio transceiver received by the first radio transceiver and activating the tag alarm if the radio frequency signal is broken; and determining with the electronic device a status of whether the distance between the wireless tag and the electronic device exceeds the allowable distance or range based at least in part on the strength or absence of the radio frequency signal; wherein the electronic device activates at least one of the tag alarm and device alarm, determines the position of the electronic device and wirelessly transmits data including the time, the temperature, and the position of the electronic device to an external device if the distance exceeds the allowable distance or range. In another embodiment, the method includes saving locally (on the device) and wirelessly transmitting data to the external device including the time and position and speed of the electronic device each time the determining step is performed. 
     In a ninth exemplary embodiment, a method of monitoring the position of a participant in an athletic event is disclosed. In one embodiment, the method includes securing a wireless tag to the participant, wherein the wireless tag includes a first radio transceiver for transmitting and receiving a radio frequency signal; providing a first identification for the wireless tag; associating the wireless tag with a plurality of electronic devices, wherein each of the electronic devices includes a clock, and a device radio transceiver for transmitting and receiving a radio frequency signal; and providing an identification and a predetermined distance or range for each of the electronic devices; wherein, for each electronic device, determining with the electronic device a status of whether the distance between the wireless tag and the electronic device is less than the predetermined distance based at least in part on the strength or absence of the radio frequency signal and transmitting to an external device the electronic device identification, the time, and the status of whether the distance between the wireless tag and the electronic device is less or more than the predetermined distance In another embodiment, the wireless tag includes an alarm and the device radio transceiver sends a signal to the wireless tag to activate the alarm or carrying out other commands/actions on the device and sending commands to the external device if the distance between the wireless tag and the electronic device is less than the predetermined distance. In another embodiment, the speed of the participant between two points is communicated to an external device. 
     In a tenth exemplary embodiment, a system for providing an application programming interface (API) and/or software development kit (SDK) is disclosed. In one embodiment, the system includes a wireless tag having a unique identification and including a power source for providing electrical power to the wireless tag, a radio transceiver for wirelessly exchanging potentially encrypted data with an electronic device, and a user interface including at least one input and at least one output wherein the electronic device determines time, the speed and the position of the electronic device and a status of whether the distance between the electronic device and wireless tag exceeds a predetermined distance and wirelessly communicates data and/or commands including the position of the electronic device, time, speed and the status; an electronic device including a radio transceiver capable of communicating with the wireless tag radio transceiver, a user interface including at least one input and one output, a module for determining the position of the electronic device, a module for determining a status of whether the distance between the electronic device and wireless tag exceeds a predetermined distance, and a data transmitter for transmitting data including time, speed and the position of the electronic device and status of the distance between the electronic device and wireless tag to an external device for storage in a computer readable storage medium; an external device in communication with the electronic device and wireless tag and storing data in a computer readable storage medium transmitted by at least one of the wireless tag and electronic device; a computer system executing an application programming interface and/or software development kit in communication with the external device and electronic device, wherein the application programming interface and/or software development kit provides a user interface to one of the external device and electronic device including an input to execute one or more commands transmitted by radio frequency signal to the wireless tag. 
     In an eleventh exemplary embodiment, a method of providing a positioning service to a customer is disclosed. In one embodiment, the method includes providing a plurality of wireless tags to the customer for small or no charge, each tag having a unique identification and including a power source for providing electrical power to the wireless tag, a radio transceiver for wirelessly exchanging encrypted data with an electronic device, and a user interface including at least one input and at least one output wherein the electronic device determines the position of the electronic device and a status of whether the distance between the electronic device and wireless tag exceeds one or more predetermined distances and wirelessly communicates data including the position, with time and speed of the electronic device and the status; providing a computer-readable medium containing an application programming interface and/or software development kit to the customer and/or a developer, the application programming interface and/or software development kit being configured to support a software application on the tag and/or the electronic device and/or the cloud, wherein the electronic device includes a radio transceiver capable of communicating with the wireless tag radio transceiver, a user interface including at least one input and one output, a module for determining the position, the speed and time of the electronic device, a module for determining a status of whether the distance between the electronic device and wireless tag exceeds one or more predetermined distance, and a data transmitter for transmitting data including the position, with time and speed of the electronic device and status of the distance between the electronic device and wireless tag to an external device for storage in a computer readable storage medium and carrying out commands/actions; and associating the plurality of tags with the application programming interface and/or software development kit for a periodic fee or a consumption-based fee, such as based on how many tags being linked, how many times data or commands are communicated or how much data or commands are communicated in a given period. In another embodiment, the method includes developing programs utilizing the application programming interface and/or software development kit and allowing access to the programs for a free or for a fee. 
     The above mentioned and other features of the invention, and the manner of attaining them, will become more apparent and the invention itself will be better understood by reference to the following description of embodiments of the invention taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The disclosure is explained in greater detail below in reference to the figures. In the figures: 
         FIG.  1 A  illustrates an exemplary method of tracking an object attached to a wireless tag according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  1 B  illustrates an exemplary wireless tag for wireless communication with an electronic device or network; 
         FIG.  1 C  illustrates an exemplary wireless tag for wireless communication with an electronic device or network; 
         FIG.  2    illustrates an exemplary electronic device and an exemplary external device for use with the wireless tag of  FIGS.  1 B and  1 C ; 
         FIG.  3    illustrates exemplary data collected by one embodiment of the disclosed system; 
         FIG.  3 A  illustrates exemplary data collected by one embodiment of the disclosed system at two positions or times; 
         FIG.  3 B  illustrates an exemplary table storing the data collected in  FIG.  3 A ; 
         FIG.  4    illustrates exemplary data collected by an anti-loss or anti-theft embodiment; 
         FIG.  4 A  illustrates exemplary data collected by an anti-loss or anti-theft embodiment of the disclosed system at three positions; 
         FIG.  4 B  illustrates a first exemplary table storing the data collected in  FIG.  4 A ; 
         FIG.  4 C  illustrates a second exemplary table storing the data collected in  FIG.  4 A ; 
         FIG.  5    illustrates exemplary processes of the disclosed system in an anti-loss of anti-theft embodiment; 
         FIG.  5 A  illustrates exemplary processes of the disclosed system in an anti-loss or anti-theft embodiment; 
         FIG.  5 B  illustrates exemplary processes of the disclosed system in an anti-loss or anti-theft embodiment; 
         FIG.  6    illustrates an exemplary process of the disclosed system in a command embodiment; 
         FIG.  7    illustrates exemplary processes of the disclosed system in a panic-alert mode embodiment; 
         FIG.  7 A  illustrates exemplary processes of the disclosed system in a panic-alert mode embodiment; 
         FIG.  7 B  illustrates exemplary processes of the disclosed system in a panic-alert mode embodiment; 
         FIG.  8    illustrates exemplary processes of the disclosed system in a marketing embodiment; 
         FIG.  8 A  illustrates an exemplary process of the disclosed system in a marketing embodiment; 
         FIG.  8 B  illustrates an exemplary process of the disclosed system in a marketing embodiment; 
         FIG.  9    illustrates exemplary processes of the disclosed system in a health-care embodiment; 
         FIG.  9 A  illustrates exemplary processes of the disclosed system in a health-care embodiment; 
         FIG.  9 B  illustrates exemplary processes of the disclosed system in a health-care embodiment; 
         FIG.  10    illustrates an exemplary process of the disclosed system in an athletic competition embodiment; 
         FIG.  11    illustrates exemplary data collected by an athletic competition embodiment of the disclosed system; 
         FIG.  11 A  illustrates exemplary data collected by an athletic competition embodiment of the disclosed system collecting data at three positions; 
         FIG.  11 B  illustrates an exemplary table storing the data collected in  FIG.  11 A ; 
         FIG.  12    illustrates an exemplary system architecture for providing an application programming interface and software development kit to developers for the disclosed system; 
         FIG.  13    illustrates exemplary methods of utilizing a user input included as part of a wireless tag; 
         FIG.  13 A  illustrates exemplary methods of utilizing a user input included as part of a wireless tag; 
         FIG.  13 B  illustrates exemplary methods of utilizing a user input included as part of a wireless tag; 
         FIG.  14    illustrates an anti-theft or anti-loss embodiment of the disclosed system; 
         FIG.  14 A  illustrates an anti-theft or anti-loss embodiment of the disclosed system; 
         FIG.  14 B  illustrates an anti-theft or anti-loss embodiment of the disclosed system; 
         FIG.  15    illustrates an exemplary RF-enabled object for wireless communication with an electronic device or network; 
         FIG.  16    illustrates exemplary processes of the disclosed RF-enabled object system in an anti-loss or anti-theft embodiment; 
         FIG.  16 A  illustrates exemplary processes of the disclosed RF-enabled object system in an anti-loss or anti-theft embodiment; 
         FIG.  16 B  illustrates exemplary processes of the disclosed RF-enabled object system in an anti-loss or anti-theft embodiment; 
         FIG.  16 C  illustrates exemplary processes of the disclosed RF-enabled object system in an anti-loss or anti-theft embodiment; 
         FIG.  16 D  illustrates exemplary processes of the disclosed RF-enabled object system in an anti-loss or anti-theft embodiment; 
         FIG.  17    illustrates an anti-theft or anti-loss embodiment of the disclosed RF-enabled object system; 
         FIG.  17 A  illustrates an anti-theft or anti-loss embodiment of the disclosed RF-enabled object system; and 
         FIG.  17 B  illustrates an anti-theft or anti-loss embodiment of the disclosed RF-enabled object system; and 
         FIG.  18    illustrates an exemplary system architecture for providing an application programming interface and software development kit to developers for the disclosed system including both wireless tags and RF-enabled objects. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
     The embodiments disclosed below are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed in the following detailed description. Rather, the embodiments are chosen and described so that others skilled in the art may utilize their teachings. While the present disclosure is primarily directed to a wireless tag apparatus and methods of linking or tracking an object by an associated wireless tag, it should be understood that the features disclosed herein may have relevance to other linking, connecting, communicating, and tracking, mobile device and cloud applications. 
     Although a plurality of different embodiments are provided, one exemplary, non-limiting example is illustrated in  FIG.  1 A . In this exemplary, non-limiting embodiment, an electronic device  10 , such as a cellular phone, is provided. Electronic device includes a module determining the current or last known position of electronic device  10 . In some embodiments, the current or last position includes one or more of the current or last known altitude, the current or last known latitude and longitude, and the current or last known speed of electronic device  10 . 
     Also shown in the exemplary, non-limiting example illustrated in  FIG.  1 A , an object  70 , such as a wallet is attached to a wireless tag  40 . Wireless tag  40  includes a radio transceiver in communication with a radio transceiver included in electronic device  10 . Electronic device  10  monitors the strength of the radio signal received from wireless tag  40  to determine the distance between electronic device  10  and wireless tag  40 . When the object  70  and tag  40  are within a first distance  82  from electronic device  10 , such as at point A, electronic device  10  determines the status of wireless tag  40  to be “in range.” When the object  70  and tag  40  are beyond the distance from electronic device  10 , such as at point A, electronic device  10  determines the status of wireless tag  40  to be “out of range.” When the status of wireless tag  40  change from “in range” to “out of range,” either electronic device  10 , wireless tag  40 , or both alarm. 
     Also as shown in the exemplary non-limiting example illustrated in  FIG.  1 A , electronic device periodically sends information relating to its current or last known location and the status of wireless tag  40  to an external device  30 , such as an external network or cloud data service. When the status of wireless tag  40  change from “in range” to “out of range,” electronic device  10  sends information relating to its current or last known location and the change of status to the external device  30 . In this way, a user is given both an alarm when the change in status occurs, as well as a last known location for object  70  based on the strength of the radio signal from tag  40  received by wireless device  10 . 
     Referring next to  FIG.  2   , an exemplary electronic device  10  is illustrated. In one embodiment, electronic device  10  is a cellular phone. In another embodiment, electronic device  10  is a tablet or laptop computer or portable computing device. In still another embodiment, electronic device  10  is an electronic watch or wristband. In yet still another embodiment, electronic device  10  is a portable music player. Other suitable electronic devices, including but not limited to a pair of electronic glasses or sunglasses, may also be used. 
     In the exemplary embodiment illustrated in  FIG.  2   , electronic device  10  includes a plurality of hardware and software, including a controller  28 . Controller  28  includes logic which may control operating of electronic device  10 . The logic of controller  28  may be implemented in hardware or in hardware executing software. Exemplary software may be stored in a memory  29 . Memory  29  includes instructions executed by controller  28 . Controller  28  may include one or more processors or other structures to implement the logic of controller  28 . 
     Memory is a computer readable medium and may be a single storage device or may include multiple storage devices, located either locally with controller  28  or accessible across a network, or partially locally with controller  28  and partially on external device  30  accessible across a network  31 . Computer-readable media may be any available media that may be accessed by controller  28  and includes both volatile and non-volatile media. Further, computer readable-media may be one or both of removable and non-removable media. By way of example, computer-readable media may include, but is not limited to, RAM, ROM, EEPROM, flash memory or other memory technology, CD-ROM, servers, Digital Versatile Disk (DVD) or other optical disk storage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium which may be used to store the desired information and which may be accessed by controller  28 . In one embodiment, controller  28  communicates data, status information, or a combination thereof to a remote device for storage, analysis, or carrying out a predetermined command. In another embodiment, memory may further include operating system software. Memory further includes communications software for communication with a network, such as a local area network, a public switched network, a CAN network, and any type of wired or wireless network. An exemplary public switched network is the Internet. Exemplary communications software includes e-mail software, SMS, Bluetooth communication software, radio frequency communication software, near field communication software and internet browser software. Other suitable software which permit controller  28  to communicate with other devices across a network may be used. 
     As illustrated in  FIG.  2   , in one embodiment, electronic device  10  further includes user interface  22  comprising one or more I/O modules which provide an interface between an operator or environment or both, and electronic device  10 . Exemplary I/O modules include input members and output members. Exemplary input members include buttons, switches, keys, a touch display, a microphone, a camera or other optical reader, a keyboard, a mouse, a transceiver, a sensor, and other suitable devices or methods for providing information to controller. Exemplary output devices include lights, a display (such as a touch screen), printer, vibrator, speaker, visual devices, audio devices including alarm/speaker  16 , tactile devices, transceiver, and other suitable devices or methods for presenting information to an operator or a machine. 
     In one embodiment, electronic device  10  includes absolute position data receiver  12  and absolute position module  14 . Absolute position data receiver  12  receives location-based data from external sources. In one exemplary embodiment, absolute position data receiver  12  receives data from a combination of cellular towers, wireless networks including Wi-Fi networks, and global positioning systems (GPS). Absolute position module  14  determines the location of electronic device  10  from the location based data received by absolute position data receiver  12 . In another embodiment, absolute position module  14  determines the speed of electronic device  10  from the location based data received by absolute position data receiver  12 . In one exemplary embodiment, absolute position data receiver  12  and absolute position module  14  are provided as part of the operating software of electronic device  10 . In another exemplary embodiment, absolute position data receiver  12  and/or absolute position module  14  are included on a card, hardware, device or software program in communication with the operating software of electronic device  10 . 
     In another exemplary embodiment, absolute position module  14  determines the latitude and longitude of electronic device  10 . In still another exemplary embodiment, absolute position module  14  determines the altitude of electronic device  10 . In yet still another exemplary embodiment, absolute position module  14  determines the speed of electronic device  10 . 
     In the exemplary embodiment illustrated in  FIG.  2   , electronic device  10  includes radio transceiver  24 . Radio transceiver  24  sends and receives data to and from other radio transceivers, including radio transceiver  56  incorporated in wireless tag  40 . In one embodiment, radio transceiver  24  may comprise a single transceiver. In another embodiment, radio transceiver  24  comprises a separate transmitter and receiver. 
     In one embodiment, radio transceiver  24  is a Bluetooth (R) transceiver that operates on Bluetooth protocols. As used herein, Bluetooth includes Bluetooth, ULP Bluetooth (Ultra Low Power Bluetooth), BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy), and other standards sets by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. In another embodiment, radio transceiver operates on RF protocols. In still another embodiment, radio transceiver  24  operates on NFC protocols. Other suitable radio transceivers may also be used. In one embodiment, at least some of the data exchanged is encrypted. 
     Bluetooth connections are relatively power efficient, have relatively little interference issues, are supported by a variety of phone manufacturers and models, and allow bidirectional communication over relatively long ranges. RFID and NFC connections may require less expensive components and may use less power from power supply  60  of wireless tag  40  (see  FIG.  1 B ). 
     In the exemplary embodiment illustrated in  FIG.  2   , electronic device  10  includes distance monitor  26 . In one embodiment, distance monitor  26  monitors communication between radio transceiver  24  and wireless tag  40 . In this embodiment, distance monitor  26  may determine the status of the connection between electronic device  10  and wireless tag  40  to determine if the connection is dropped, broken, lost, or otherwise not present. In another embodiment, distance monitor  26  determines a distance between electronic device  10  and wireless tag  40  based at least in part on the strength of the signal received from wireless tag  40 . In still another embodiment, controller  28  may compare the distance determined by distance monitor  26  with a selected distance to alert the user if the determined distance exceeds the selected or predetermined distance. In yet still another embodiment, controller  28  may compare the signal strength with a desired signal strength from a user to alert the user if the signal strength is weaker than the desired signal strength. In another embodiment, controller  28  may compare the distance determined by distance monitor  26  with a predetermined distance or predetermined signal strength, such as but not limited to a received signal strength indicator, corresponding to a user input, such as but not limited to “Close,” “Mid,” or “Far.” In still another embodiment, controller  28  may compare the signal strength with a desired signal strength from a user and alert the user if the signal strength is stronger than the desired signal strength. 
     In the exemplary embodiment illustrated in  FIG.  2   , electronic device  10  includes data transmitter  18  and data receiver  20 . Data transmitter  18  sends data to external device  30 , and data receiver  20  receives data from external device  30 . In one exemplary embodiment, radio transceiver  24  also functions as data transmitter  18  and/or data receiver  20 . In another exemplary embodiment, data transmitter  18  and data receiver  20  are separate from radio transceiver  24 . In one embodiment, data transmitter  18  and data receiver  20  exchange data with external device  30  using Wi-Fi standards, such as the IEEE802.11 family of standards or WiMAX standards, such as IEEE802.16. In another embodiment, data is exchanged using a wide area network standard, including but not limited to, LTE, HPSA, UMTS, GPRS, EDGE, iBurst, EV-DO. In still another embodiment, data is exchanged using a personal area network standard, including, but not limited to Bluetooth, ZigBee, ANT, and Wireless USB. Other suitable mobile data standards may also be used. In another embodiment, wireless tag  40  saves data locally and later communicates data to wireless device  10  or external network  30  over a wired connection. Exemplary wired connections include a USB connection, although other suitable connections may also be used. 
     In one embodiment, at least one of the following communications channels is encrypted: between radio transceiver  56  and controller  48 , between wireless tag  40  and electronic device  10 , between radio transceiver  24  and controller  28 , between electronic device  10  and external device  30 , within components of external device  30 , between external device  30  and an external user interface, such as user interface  522  (as illustrated in  FIG.  12   ). 
     In one exemplary embodiment, data from data transmitter  18  and data receiver  20  is exchanged with data on external device  30 . External device  30  may comprise a single device or a plurality of devices in communication with each other. In one embodiment, external device  30  is a machine capable of storing data, including, but not limited to a computer, a laptop computer, a tablet computer, a mobile electronic device, or a server. In another embodiment, external device  30  is a network capable of storing data, including but not limited to a local area network, a public switched network, a CAN network, and any type of wired or wireless network. In still another embodiment, external device  30  is a network or cloud data service. As used herein, a cloud service refers to remotely hosted data, remotely hosted servers, or both over the internet, web or a network which is accessible from multiple locations and devices or machines. As used herein, the term includes at least Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS), Platform-as-a-Service (PaaS), Hardware-as-a-Service, and Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) service, and other remote data computation, application, management, or storage resources. As used herein, network, refers to a local area network, a private network, a public switched network such as but not limited to the Internet, a CAN network, and any type of wired or wireless network. 
     Referring next to  FIG.  1 B , an exemplary wireless tag  40  is illustrated. In one embodiment, wireless tag  40  includes user interface  54  comprising one or more I/O modules which provide an interface between an operator and wireless tag  40 . An operator may include a human operator or a computer, machine, or software application interfacing with wireless tag  40 , electronic device  10 , or external device  30 . Exemplary I/O modules include input members and output members. Exemplary input members include buttons, such as button  44 , switches, keys, a touch display, a keyboard, a sensor, a mouse, and other suitable devices for providing information to controller  48 . Exemplary output devices include lights, a display (such as a touch screen), printer, speaker, visual devices, audio devices including alarm  46 , tactile devices, and other suitable devices for presenting information to an operator. 
     In the exemplary embodiment illustrated in  FIG.  1 B , wireless tag  40  includes a plurality of hardware and software, including a controller  48 . Controller  48  includes logic which may control operation of wireless tag  40 . The logic of controller  48  may be implemented in hardware or in hardware executing software. Exemplary software may be stored in a memory  49 . Memory  49  includes instructions executed by controller  48 , as described for controller  28  above. Controller  48  may include one or more processors or other structures to implement the logic of controller  48 . 
     In the exemplary embodiment illustrated in  FIG.  1 B , wireless tag  40  includes radio transceiver  56 . Radio transceiver  56  sends and receives data from other radio transceivers, including radio transceiver  24  incorporated in electronic device  10 . In one embodiment, radio transceiver  56  may comprise a single transceiver. In another embodiment, radio transceiver  56  comprises a separate transmitter and receiver. 
     In one embodiment, radio transceiver  56  is a Bluetooth (R) transceiver that operates on Bluetooth protocols. In another embodiment, radio transceiver  56  operates on RF protocols. In still another embodiment, radio transceiver  56  operates on NFC protocols. Other suitable radio transceivers may also be used. In one embodiment, at least some of the data exchanged is encrypted. 
     In the exemplary embodiment illustrated in  FIG.  1 B  wireless tag  40  includes distance monitor  58 . In one embodiment, distance monitor  58  monitors communication between radio transceiver  56  and electronic device  10 . In another embodiment, distance monitor  58  may determine the status of the connection between electronic device  10  and wireless tag  40  to determine if the connection is dropped, broken, lost, or otherwise not present. In still another embodiment, distance monitor  58  may determine the distance or range between wireless tag  40  and electronic device  10 . 
     In the exemplary embodiment illustrated in  FIG.  1 B , wireless tag  40  includes data transmitter  50  and data receiver  52 . Data transmitter  50  and data receiver  52  function similarly to data transmitter  18  and data receiver  20  of electronic device  10 . Data transmitter  50  sends data to external device  30 , and data receiver  52  receives data from external device  30 . In one exemplary embodiment, radio transceiver  56  also functions as data transmitter  50  and/or data receiver  52 . In another exemplary embodiment, data transmitter  50  and data receiver  52  are separate from radio transceiver  56 . In one embodiment, data transmitter  50  and data receiver  52  exchange data with external device  30  as described above. Other suitable mobile data standards may also be used. In one embodiment, at least some of the data exchanged is encrypted. In still another exemplary embodiment, wireless tag  40  does not include data transmitter  50  and/or data receiver  52 . 
     In another embodiment, wireless tag includes power supply  60 . Exemplary power supplies  60  include rechargeable batteries, including but not limited to nickel-cadmium and lithium ion batteries, and non-rechargeable batteries. Other suitable power supplies  60  may also be used. 
     In still another embodiment, wireless tag  40  includes one or more sensors  42 . Exemplary sensors  42  include, but are not limited to, temperature sensors, altimeters, barometers, pressure sensors, humidity sensors, chronometers, pedometers, accelerometers, level sensors, impact sensors, and compasses. Other suitable sensors may be used depending on the desired application. 
     In yet still another embodiment, wireless tag  40  may include a GPS or other suitable location detection technologies (not shown). In this embodiment, wireless tag  40  may communicate its position over at least one of data transmitter  50  and radio transceiver  56 . Using the communicated position information, a direction to wireless tag  40  may be displayed or communicated on user interface  22  or a user interface associated with external device  30 . In one embodiment, the direction may be saved locally in memory  49  associated with the electronic device  10 . In another embodiment, the direction may be communicated to the external device  30  and saved in memory  29  associated with the electronic device  10 . In still another embodiment, the position may be saved locally in memory  29  associated with the wireless tag data and later communicated to wireless device  10  or external network  30  over a wired or wireless connection, such as network  31 . 
     Although shown separately the modules shown in  FIG.  1    and  FIG.  2    may include one or more other modules. 
     In yet another exemplary embodiment, wireless tag  40  includes securing element  72  to secure wireless tag to object  70 . In one embodiment, object  70  is a person or animal. In another embodiment, object  70  is an inanimate physical object. In one embodiment, securing element  72  includes a mechanical or chemical fastener to secure wireless tag  40  to object  70 . Other securing elements  72  may also be used. In another embodiment, wireless tag  40  is not secured to object  70 , but is positioned near, in, or on object  70 , or in an environment. Other positions of wireless tag  40  in relation to object  70  may also be used. 
     Referring next to  FIG.  2 B , an exemplary wireless tag  40  is illustrated. The exemplary wireless tag  40  includes a button  44 , plurality of lights  74 , and speaker  76  for alarm  46  as part of user interface  54 . In other embodiments, other suitable inputs and outputs may be used. The exemplary wireless tag  40  also includes power socket  78  for recharging power supply  60 . The exemplary wireless tag  40  also includes an area for displaying identifying information  80 . In other embodiments, no information is displayed on wireless tag  40 . 
     In the exemplary embodiment illustrated in  FIG.  2 B , wireless tag  40  has a first dimension d1, a second dimension d2, and a thickness d3. In one embodiment, first dimension and second dimension are about 0.5 cm to about 10 cm, although larger and smaller sizes may also be used. In another embodiment, first dimension and second dimension are about 4 cm to about 5 cm. In still other embodiments, other suitable dimensions depending on the intended use may be used. 
     In one exemplary embodiment, the thickness d3 of wireless tags  40  is relatively thin. In one embodiment, d3 is about 10 mm or less. In another embodiment, d3 is about 6 mm or less. In still another embodiment, d3 is more than about 10 mm. The thinner wireless tag  40  is, the less intrusively it can be attached to an object  70  for tracking. In yet still another embodiment, d3 is about 5 mm or less. The thinner wireless tag  40  is, the easier it can be stored in a wallet or purse. Thicker tags may be easier to manufacture and may require lower component prices. 
     Referring next to  FIG.  3   , exemplary data collected by one embodiment of the disclosed system is illustrated.  FIG.  3 A  illustrates collecting exemplary data at two positions, point 1 and point 2. In one embodiment, points 1 and 2 are physically spaced apart. In another embodiment, points 1 and 2 are at the same absolute location, but are recorded at different points in time.  FIG.  3 B  illustrates an exemplary table  110  storing the data collected in  FIG.  3 A . Exemplary data collected at point 1 include the time, the absolute position and direction determined by electronic device  10 , the status of one or more wireless tags  40  as in range/out of range as determined by the electronic device  10 , data from one or more sensors  42  attached to wireless tag  40 , and the status of any command executed by controllers  28  and/or  48 . Other suitable data may be collected and stored in table  110  as well. Similar data is collected at point 2. In one embodiment, the data in table  110  may be collected by wireless tag  40 . In another embodiment, the data in table  110  may be collected by electronic device  10 . In still another embodiment, the data in table  110  may be collected by a combination of wireless tag  40  and electronic device  10 . 
     The exemplary data collected at points 1 and 2 in  FIG.  3 A  is stored in the exemplary table illustrated in  FIG.  3 B . Table  110  may include more or fewer columns and rows than in the exemplary embodiment illustrated in  FIG.  3   . The different categories of data collected at each of point 1 and point 2 are organized in columns  112 . The data from each point is organized in rows  114 . In one embodiment, table  110  may be stored in memory a network, including in the cloud. In another embodiment, the data is stored locally in memory  29  on the electronic device  10  or memory  49  on the wireless tag  40 . In one embodiment, the data is stored at multiple locations that can be queried to create table  110 . In another embodiment, the data in table  110  is stored in memory on external device  30 . In one embodiment, the data in table  110  is communicated to external device  30  by data transmitter  18  in electronic device  10  or across network  31 . In another embodiment, the data in table  110  is communicated to external device  30  by data transmitter  50  in wireless tag  40 . In still another embodiment, the data in table  110  is communicated to external device  30  by a combination of data transmitters  18 ,  50 . In one embodiment, table  110  is accessible to a user through an internet browser or other software application. In another embodiment, table  110  data is presented directly to an operator, user, or machine. In still another embodiment, table  110  data is accessible through an application programming interface. In yet still another embodiment, table  110  data is accessible through a software development kit. 
     An exemplary method of using the disclosed system in an anti-loss or anti-theft embodiment is illustrated in  FIGS.  4 - 5   .  FIG.  4    illustrates exemplary data collected by an anti-loss or anti-theft embodiment of the disclosed system.  FIG.  4 A  illustrates collecting data at three positions. Points 1, 2, and 3 may be physically spaced apart, or one or more of points 1, 2, 3 may be at the same absolute location but recorded at different points in time. At points 1, 2, and 3, electronic device  10  sends data to external device  30  indicating the identification of electronic device  10  and wireless tag  40 , the time, the speed, the absolute position of electronic device  10  as determined by absolute position module  14 , and the status of wireless tag  40  as determined by distance monitor  26 .  FIG.  4    illustrates wireless tag  40  being out of range at point 3. The circles at positions 1 and 2 indicate that the distance between electronic device  10  and wireless tag  40  is less than the set allowable distance or range. The X at position 3 indicates that wireless tag  40  is located more than the set allowable distance or range from electronic device  10 . 
       FIG.  4 B  illustrates a first exemplary table  140  storing the data collected in  FIG.  4 A . In table  140 , electronic device  10 , wireless tag  40 , or both update data to external device  30  for every point 1, 2, 3. Therefore, table  140  includes a row for each of points 1, 2, and 3. 
       FIG.  4 C  illustrates second exemplary table  150  storing the data collected in  FIG.  4 A . In table  150 , electronic device  10 , wireless tag  40 , or both update data to external device  30  only when the status indicates the distance or range between wireless tag  40  and electronic device  10  has exceeded the allowable distance or range. Using a table such table  140  allows for historical tracking of where the electronic device  10  had been, allowing a user to retrace her location record. Using a table such as table  150  requires less storage capacity. In one embodiment, the data in either table  140  or table  150  is also stored locally in memory  29  associated with electronic device  10  or memory  49  associated with wireless tag  40 . 
       FIGS.  5 A and  5 B  illustrate exemplary processes  200 ,  220  of the disclosed system in an anti-theft or anti-loss embodiment. In  FIG.  5 A , the block  202  illustrates securing wireless tag  40  to object  70  that is to be tracked. Block  204  illustrates associating wireless tag  40  with electronic device  10 . In one embodiment, block  204  includes selecting a name and/or icon for wireless tag  40 . In another embodiment, associating wireless tag  40  is performed through user interface  22  on electronic device  10 . In block  206 , a range or distance between wireless tag  40  and electronic device  10  is selected. In one embodiment, the allowable distance or range is a default value. In another embodiment, the allowable distance is selected from a plurality of default values. In yet another embodiment, the distance is input by the user or machine. In still yet another embodiment, a user selects from a list of range choices, such as but not limited to Close, Mid, and Far, each of which is associated with a predetermined distance or signal strength. In block  208 , the connection between wireless tag  40  and electronic device  10  is monitored by both controller  28  of electronic device  10  and controller  48  of wireless tag  40 . If the connection between radio transceiver  24  and radio transceiver  56  is broken as shown in block  210 , an alarm is activated in block  216  and data is saved locally to electronic device  10  and sent to external device  30  by data transmitter  18  of electronic device  10 . In another embodiment (not shown) an additional predetermined action is taken or command is activated in addition to the alarm and data communication. In one embodiment, the alarm in block  216  is alarm/speaker  16  of electronic device  10 . In another embodiment, the alarm in block  216  is alarm  46  of wireless tag  40 . In still another embodiment, the alarm in block  216  is the both alarm/speaker  16  and alarm  46 . In one embodiment, the data sent to external device  30  in block  218  includes at least one of position as determined by absolute position module  14 , time, status as determined by distance monitor  26 , and the last reading of sensor  42  received from wireless tag  40 . 
     If in block  210  the connection is not broken, in block  212  the distance between electronic device  10  and wireless tag  40  as determined by distance monitor  26  is monitored. As shown in block  214 , if the distance is less than the distance or range selected in block  206 , the system returns to block  208  to monitor the connection. If the distance is not less than the set distance or range, an alarm is activated in block  216  and data is saved locally to electronic device  10  and sent to external device  30  as described above. In another embodiment (not shown) an additional predetermined action is taken or command is activated in addition to the alarm and data communication. 
       FIG.  5 B  illustrates a variant  220  of the exemplary anti-loss or anti-theft process described above. In the process illustrated in  5 B, if the distance or range in block  214  is less than the distance selected in block  206 , in block  219  data is saved locally to electronic device  10  and sent to external device  30  as in block  218  before returning to block  208  to monitor the connection. The process of  FIG.  5 B  will generate a table similar to table  150  illustrated in  FIG.  4 C , while the process of  FIG.  5 A  will generate a table similar to table  140  illustrated in  FIG.  4 B . 
     In some embodiments of processes  200 ,  220 , in block  206  a profile is selected, similar to  FIGS.  16 C and  16 D . In one embodiment, a profile is a set settings, where each setting is an action based on a predetermined condition. Exemplary settings include whether to alarm or not based on a predetermined condition, such as the location, the time, the temperature, etc. One exemplary setting is to disable the alarm during the weekends. Another exemplary setting is to disable the alarm in a predetermined location, such as a user&#39;s work. In these embodiments, if the connection is broken in block  210 , or if the distance is less than the set range/distance in block  214 , the system first determines whether the current profile settings allow for an alarm. If the profile allows for an alarm, the alarm is activated in block  216 . If the profile does not allow for an alarm, the system returns to block  208  to monitor the signal. 
       FIG.  6    illustrates a general exemplary process  230  for responding to a predefined command from controller  28  of electronic device  10  or controller  48  or wireless tag  40 . Block  232  illustrates securing wireless tag  40  to object  70  that is to be tracked. Block  234  illustrates associating wireless tag  40  with electronic device  10 , as in block  204  of  FIG.  5   . 
     In block  236 , controller  28  monitors the data from radio transceiver  56  for activation of a command. Exemplary commands include a panic alert, an exemplary illustration of which is given in  FIG.  7    below, a finder command, and a position record command. Each command includes an associated predetermined action. The predetermined action may include more than one action. For example, a finder command from controller  28  may include the predetermined action of sounding alarm  46  for a short period to allow a user to find wireless tag  40 . A similar command from controller  48  may allow a user to find electronic device  10 . A reading command from controller  28  may include the predetermined action of sending data from sensor  42  to transceiver  56  or transmitter  50  for recording on electronic device  10  and/or machine/network/cloud. A position record command from controller  28  may include the predetermined action of sending the position as determined by module  14  for recording on electronic device  10  and/or on external device  30 . Other suitable commands and predetermined actions may also be used. In block  238 , if no command has been initiated, the system returns to block  236  to monitor for a command. If a command has been initiated, in block  240  the predetermined action is taken. 
     Similarly, in block  242 , controller  48  monitors the data from radio transceiver  24  for activation of a command. Exemplary commands include the commands given for controller  28  above. Each command includes an associated predetermined action, as described for controller  28  above. In block  244 , if no command has been initiated, the system returns to block  236  to monitor for a command. If a command has been initiated, in block  246  the predetermined action is taken. 
     In another embodiment, controller  48  may activate a command such as in  FIG.  6    due to a reading of sensor  42  or the result of comparing the reading of sensor  42  to a predetermined value. 
       FIGS.  7 A and  7 B  illustrate exemplary processes  250 ,  270  of the disclosed system in a panic-mode embodiment. In process  250 , block  252  illustrates securing wireless tag  40  to object  70  that is to be tracked. Block  254  illustrates associating wireless tag  40  with electronic device  10 , as in block  204  of  FIG.  5   . In block  256 , controller  28 , monitors the data from radio transceiver  24  for activation of Panic Alert Mode. In block  258 , if no command has been initiated, the system returns to block  256  to monitor for a command. If a command has been initiated, in block  260 , at least one of alarms  16 ,  46  is activated, data including position as determined by module  14  is stored locally and sent to external device  30 , and in block  264  an alert is sent to at least one predetermined contact. In another embodiment (not shown) an additional predetermined action is taken or command is activated in addition to the alarm and data communication. The predetermined contact may be an emergency contact number, a law enforcement number, or a personal contact. In another embodiment, the contact may be a phone number or email address or other contact information. The alert may include time of mode activation, position as determined by module  14 , time, and/or status as determined by distance monitor  26 , and/or the reading of sensor  42 . 
       FIG.  7 B  illustrates a variant  270  of the exemplary panic alert process described above. In the process illustrated in  7 B, the predetermined action includes in block  266  selecting a contact list based in part on the current location as determined by module  14  or the time, and in block  268  sending an alert as in block  264 , but to the contact list selected in block  266 . In one embodiment, the selection in block  266  is based on a pre-selected set of criteria defined by the user. In another embodiment, the selection in block  266  is a default set of criteria. In still another embodiment, the selection in block  266  is from a default set of contacts, such as emergency contact numbers, and the selection is based at least in part on the current location as determined by module  14 . In another embodiment, the selection is based at least in part on the current time. 
       FIGS.  8 A and  8 B  illustrates exemplary processes  280 ,  310  of the disclosed system in a marketing embodiment.  FIG.  8 A  illustrates an exemplary process  280  for giving a promotion based on finding a plurality of objects  70  each attached to a wireless tag  40 . In block  282 , a plurality of wireless tags  40  are attached to a plurality of objects  70  or placed in a plurality of different locations. In one exemplary embodiment, the tags are then spaced apart from each other. In another exemplary embodiment, the tags are spaced around a building or geographical area. In block  284 , each wireless tag  40  is associated with a first device and a set distance or range for each wireless tag  40  is selected. In one exemplary embodiment, first device is electronic device  10 . In another exemplary embodiment, first device is a machine/network/cloud in communication with data transmitters  50  and data receivers  52  or wireless tags  40 . 
     In block  286 , a user with a second device approaches one of wireless tags  40 . In one exemplary embodiment, second device is an electronic device  10 . In another exemplary embodiment, user must search the area to find objects  70  attached to wireless tags  40 . As the second device approaches a wireless tag  40 , in block  288 , the distance between wireless tag  40  and second device is monitored by distance monitor  26  on second device and/or distance monitor  58  on wireless tag  40 . In block  290 , if the distance determined by distance monitor  26  or distance monitor  58  is more than the set distance or range given in step  284 , the system returns to step  288  to monitor the distance. If the distance is less than the set distance or range, then in step  292 , data regarding the “find” is saved locally on the first device and sent to external device  30 . In step  294 , an alert is displayed on second device, alerting the user that she has “found” the tag  40 , and a status relating to that tag  40  on external device  30  is updated. In one embodiment, blocks  286  through  294  are repeated for multiple wireless tags  40 . In another embodiment, multiple users with multiple electronic devices  10  each perform blocks  286  through  294 . 
     In step  296 , the system determines whether all tags  40  have been found. In one exemplary embodiment, the determination is made based on whether the tags  40  have been found by any user. In another exemplary embodiment, the determination is made based on whether the second device has found all of the tags  40 . In still another exemplary embodiment, the determination is made based on a predetermined number of tags  40  that must be found. In yet still another exemplary embodiment, the tags  40  may be found by one or more users. If all tags  40  have not been found, then the system returns to block  286  and the user holding the second device approaches a second tag  40 . If the system determines in block  296  that all tags  40  have been found, then a promotion is displayed on a user interface of second device, such as user interface  22  of electronic device  10 . In one exemplary embodiment, the promotion is a discount or coupon, or a reward or point credit in a rewards or point system. In another exemplary embodiment, the promotion is an advertisement. In still another exemplary embodiment, the promotion depends upon how many tags  40  were found by the user or how quickly tags  40  were found by the user. In yet still another exemplary embodiment, the promotion is an alert that all tags  40  have been found. Other suitable promotions may also be used. 
       FIG.  8 B  illustrates an exemplary process  310  for providing a promotional game based on finding a plurality of categories of objects  70 , each object attached to a wireless tag  40 . In block  312 , a plurality of wireless tags  40  are attached to a plurality of objects  70  or placed in a plurality of different locations. In one exemplary embodiment, the tags  40  are then spaced apart from each other. In another exemplary embodiment, the tags  40  are spaced around a building or geographical area. In block  314 , each wireless tag  40  is categorized into one or more categories based on the object  70  attached to it or location it is placed in, and a distance or range is set for each category. In another embodiment, a time is set for each category, and the tags  40  associated with the category must be found within that time or the electronic device  10  must be within the distance or range for that amount of time. In block  316 , a list of categories is provided to a device. In one exemplary embodiment, device is an electronic device  10 . 
     In block  318 , a user with device approaches one of wireless tags  40 . In another exemplary embodiment, user must search the area to find objects  70  attached to wireless tags  40 . As the device approaches a wireless tag  40 , in block  320 , the distance between wireless tag  40  and device is monitored by distance monitor  26  on device and/or distance monitor  58  on wireless tag  40 . In block  324 , if the distance determined by distance monitor  26  or distance monitor  58  is more than the distance or range set in step  314 , the system returns to step  320  to monitor the distance. If the distance is less than the set distance or range, then in step  326  the system determines whether the object category status is “found” for device. In one exemplary embodiment, this determination is performed by controller  28  on electronic device  10 . If the category is already “found,” then the system returns to block  318  to find another tag  40 . If the category is not “found,” in block  328 , data regarding the “find” is saved locally on the device and sent to external device  30 . An alert is displayed on second device, alerting the user that she has “found” the category, and a status relating to that tag  40  on external device  30  is updated. In another embodiment, rewards or points are earned by a user or group of users based on predetermined game or event rules or regulations. 
     In step  332 , the system determines whether all categories defined in block  316  have been found. In one exemplary embodiment, the determination is made based on whether the categories have been found by any user. In another exemplary embodiment, the determination is made based on whether the device has found all the categories. In still another exemplary embodiment, the determination is made based on a predetermined number of categories that must be found. If all categories have not been found, then the system returns to block  318  and the user holding the device approaches a second tag  40 . If the system determines in block  332  that all categories have been found, then in block  334  an alert is displayed on a user interface of device, such as user interface  22  of electronic device  10 . In one exemplary embodiment, the alert is a promotion such as a discount or coupon. In another exemplary embodiment, the alert is an advertisement. In still another exemplary embodiment, the alert depends upon how many categories were found by the user or how quickly categories were found by the user or by point values associated with each category found by the user. In yet still another exemplary embodiment, the alert gives the user a reward or points in a predetermined system. Other suitable alerts may also be used. 
       FIGS.  9 A and  9 B  illustrate exemplary processes  340 ,  360  of the disclosed system in a health-care patient monitoring embodiment. In  FIG.  9 A , block  342  illustrates securing wireless tag  40  to a patient that is to be tracked. Block  204  illustrates associating wireless tag  40  with electronic device  10 . In one embodiment, block  344  includes selecting a name and/or icon for wireless tag  40 . In another embodiment, associating wireless tag  40  is performed through user interface  22  on electronic device  10 . In block  346 , a distance or range between wireless tag  40  and electronic device  10  is selected. In one embodiment, the set distance or range is a default value. In another embodiment, the distance or range or time is selected from a plurality of default values. In yet another embodiment, the distance or range is input by the user. In block  348 , the connection between wireless tag  40  and electronic device  10  is monitored by both controller  28  of electronic device  10  and controller  48  of wireless tag  40 . If the connection between radio transceiver  24  and radio transceiver  56  is broken as shown in block  350 , an alarm is activated in block  216  and data is saved locally to electronic device  10  and sent to external device  30  by data transmitter  18  of electronic device  10 . In one embodiment, the alarm in block  356  is alarm/speaker  16  of electronic device  10 . In another embodiment, the alarm in block  356  is alarm  46  of wireless tag  40 . In still another embodiment, the alarm in block  356  is the both alarm/speaker  16  and alarm  46 . In one embodiment, the data sent to external device  30  in block  358  includes at least one of position as determined by absolute position module  14 , time, status as determined by distance monitor  26 , and the last reading of sensor  42  received from wireless tag  40 . 
     If in block  350  the connection is not broken, in block  352  the distance between electronic device  10  and wireless tag  40  as determined by distance monitor  26  is monitored. As shown in block  354 , if the distance or range is less than the distance or range selected in block  346 , the system returns to block  348  to monitor the connection. If the distance or range is more than the set distance or range, an alarm is activated in block  356  and data is saved locally to electronic device  10  and sent to external device  30  as described above. 
       FIG.  9 B  illustrates a variant  360  of the exemplary health care patient monitoring embodiment described above. In the process illustrated in  FIG.  9 B , if the distance in block  354  is less than the distance selected in block  346 , in block  359  data is saved locally to electronic device  10  and sent to external device  30  as in block  358  before returning to block  348  to monitor the connection. 
     An exemplary method of using the disclosed system in an athletic competition embodiment is illustrated in  FIGS.  10 - 11   .  FIG.  10    illustrates exemplary athletic competition processes  370  of the disclosed system. In block  372 , wireless tag  40  is secured to an athletic participant who is to be tracked. Exemplary athletic participants include, but are not limited to, runners, skiers, motorsport drivers, and other suitable participants. Wireless tag  40  may be secured to the participant or a group of participants, to the participant&#39;s gear or equipment, or in another suitable location. Block  374  illustrates associating wireless tag  40  with a first electronic device  10  and setting a distance or range. In one embodiment, block  374  includes selecting a name and/or icon for wireless tag  40 . In another embodiment, associating wireless tag  40  is performed through user interface  22  on electronic device  10 . In one embodiment, the set distance or range is a default value. In another embodiment, the distance or range is selected from a plurality of default values. In yet another embodiment, the allowable distance or range is input by the user. In block  376 , the distance between electronic device  10  and wireless tag  40  as determined by distance monitor  26  is monitored. As shown in block  378  if the distance or range is less than the distance or range selected in block  206 , the system returns to block  376  to monitor the connection. In one embodiment, data is uploaded to external device  30  in block  380 . Exemplary data may include any combination of time, position, speed, sensor readings, and status. If the distance is less than the set distance or range, in block  382 , the participant is alerted by wireless tag  40 . In one exemplary embodiment, the alert is through alarm  46 . In another exemplary embodiment, the alert is through user interface  54 . Other suitable alerts may also be used. In block  384 , data is uploaded to external device  30  as in block  380 . 
     Block  386  illustrates associating wireless tag  40  with a second electronic device  10  and setting a second distance or range, similar to block  374 . In one embodiment, all associating steps are performed together. In another embodiment, the same set distance or range is used for all associating steps. In block  388 , the distance between electronic device  10  and wireless tag  40  as determined by distance monitor  26  is monitored. As shown in block  390  if the distance is less than the distance selected in block  206 , the system returns to block  376  to monitor the connection. In one embodiment, data is uploaded to external device  30  in block  392 . If the distance is less than the set distance or range, in block  394 , the participant is alerted by wireless tag  40 . In one exemplary embodiment, the alert is through alarm  46 . In another exemplary embodiment, the alert is through user interface  54 . Other suitable alerts may also be used. In block  396 , data is uploaded to external device  30  as in block  392 . 
       FIG.  11    illustrates exemplary data collected by an athletic competition embodiment of the disclosed system.  FIG.  11 A  illustrates collecting data at three positions, points 1, 2, and 3, which may be physically spaced apart from each other. In  FIG.  11 A , a race starts at point 1, passes through point 2, and ends at point 3. At each of points 1, 2, and 3, a stationary electronic device  10  sends data to external device  30  indicating the identification of electronic device  10  and wireless tag  40 , the absolute position of electronic device  10  as determined by absolute position module  14 , and the status of wireless tag  40  as determined by distance monitor  26 .  FIG.  11 B  illustrates exemplary table  420  for storing the data collected in  FIG.  11 A . In one embodiment, the table  420  is also stored locally in memory  29  associated with electronic device  10  or in memory  49  associated with wireless tag  40 . In table  420 , electronic device  10 , wireless tag  40 , or both update data to external device  30  for each point 1, 2, 3. Table  420  stores data showing when wireless tag  40  and attached participant entered and left a range defined by the set distance or range around the electronic device  10  at each of points 1, 2, and 3. 
     In an alternative athletic competition embodiment, not shown, the athletic participants are provided with electronic device  10  and a wireless tag  40  is positioned at each of points 1, 2, and 3. In this embodiment, the data communicated to external device  30  for each point 1, 2, 3, may include the speed of the device  10  at each point. In another embodiment, each tag  40  periodically collects data from electronic devices  10  in range and uploads data to the external device  30 . The data may include, but are not limited to, status of electronic devices  10  as in range or out of range, distance to the tag  40 , signal strength, absolute position of the electronic device  10  (which may include latitude, longitude, and altitude), time, and speed of the electronic device  10 . Other suitable arrangements may also be used. 
       FIG.  12    illustrates providing an API to developers for the disclosed system to allow developers the ability to create their own software and applications on top of the system. Providing an API allows developers to create customized and creative applications based on the system architecture  500 . Also, it allows developers to distribute and monetize their software and applications or, indirectly, their other products and services. Within the exemplary system architecture  500  illustrated in  FIG.  12   , a first wireless tag  502  and a second wireless tag  504  are provided. In one embodiment, first wireless tag  502  and second wireless tag  504  are both wireless tags  40  as previously described. Wireless tag  502  is not attached to an object  70 . Wireless tag  504  is attached to object  70  with securing element  72 . Additional wireless tags may also be provided. Wireless tags  502 ,  504  are in communication with electronic device  510 . In one embodiment, electronic device  510  is an electronic device  10  as previously described. Electronic device  510  includes a software program or application for communicating with wireless tags  502 ,  504  and/or a machine/network/cloud  520 . In one embodiment, machine/network/cloud  520  is an external device  30 . The software program or application includes a user interface  512 . In one embodiment, user interface  512  is user interface  22 . Machine/network/cloud also includes a user interface  522 . In one embodiment, user interfaces  512 ,  522  provide access to data, programs, and applications stored locally on electronic device  510  and machine/network/cloud  520 . 
     In one embodiment, user interface  522  allows a user to view, query, organize, and categorize data stored on external device  30 ,  520  gathered through data sent by electronic devices  510  and wireless tags  502 ,  504 . In another embodiment, user interface  522  can be used to initiate commands or activate alarms on wireless tags  502 ,  504 , and electronic device  510 . In still another embodiment, user interface  522  allows a user to lock, remotely backup or wipe reset electronic device  510  having a software program or application for communicating with wireless tags  502 ,  504 . 
     In one exemplary embodiment, system architecture  500  includes an API  530 . API  530  is in communication with machine/network/cloud  520  and electronic device  510 . In one embodiment, API  530  provides access to one or more of developers  532  to data stored on machine/network/cloud  520  and/or electronic device  510 . Using this access, developers  532  can create a plurality of applications  540 . In another embodiment, developers  532  use API to integrate applications  540  as part of system  500  in presentation to users through user interfaces  512 ,  522 . 
     In another exemplary embodiment, system architecture  500  includes a software development kit (SDK)  550 . In one embodiment, SDK  550  includes tools that may be used by software developers in developing software applications  540 . In another embodiment, SDK  550  is in communication with machine/network/cloud  520  and electronic device  510 . As illustrated, SDK  550  may also be in communication with API  530 . In one embodiment, SDK  550  provides access to a plurality of developers  552  to data stored on machine/network/cloud  520 , electronic device  510 , and/or API  530 . Using this access, developers can create a plurality of applications  540 . 
     Applications  540  may be downloaded by users to their electronic device such as that shown in  510 , to a machine/network/cloud such as that shown in  520 , or reside on a machine/network/cloud and accessed through a web browser or other suitable software and/or user interface from an electronic device, such as  510 , or a server. In one exemplary embodiment, the electronic device could be connected to or integrated into another suitable object or device such as, but not limited to, clothing, sporting goods, food, medicine, medical devices, furniture, livestock, animals, cars, packaging, or luggage. 
     In still another exemplary embodiment, developers  532  can use system architecture  500  to distribute and monetize their applications  540  to users. A variety of monetization strategies are considered, including providing applications for free to increase awareness, providing a series of paid advertisements with a free application, providing a free basic version and a fee premium version of an application, providing only a fee version of an application, and providing a free version but provide opportunities to purchase additional features, subscriptions, goods, or services within the application. Other suitable strategies may also be used. 
     In one exemplary embodiment, a method of distributing wireless tags  502 ,  504  is disclosed. In one embodiment, wireless tags  502 ,  504  are provided free of charge to clients for use with a free software program or application for an electronic device  510 . The hardware of wireless tags  502 ,  504  and data communications of wireless tags  502 ,  504  may be encrypted. The wireless tags  502 ,  504  and electronic device  510  provide data to a machine/network/cloud  520  as described above. Clients are granted limited access to the data for a fee. In one exemplary embodiment, a fee, such as a periodic or monthly fee, is charged for access to data regarding a wireless tag  502  or  504 . Other exemplary fees include one-time, subscription, and pay-as-you-go fees. In another exemplary embodiment, a periodic fee for each wireless tag  502 ,  504  allows the client access to the API  530  for creating applications  540  for data from the paid wireless tags  502 ,  504 . In still another exemplary embodiment, applications  540  through API  530  allow commands to be executed from user interface  512  or user interface  522  accessible to the client through an internet webpage or a similar medium. In yet still another exemplary embodiment, different tiers of access to machine/network/cloud  520  and software on electronic device  510  are provided to different clients, where each tier has an associated periodic fee. Combination of all of the strategies disclosed may also be used. 
       FIG.  13    illustrates exemplary methods of utilizing a user input  610  included as part of wireless tag  40 . An exemplary wireless tag  40  is illustrated as including user input  610 . Exemplary user inputs  610  include buttons, touch screens, remote-touch and touchless surfaces. Other suitable user inputs, such as those described with regard to user interface  54 , may also be used. 
     An exemplary process for taking a predetermined action  620  is illustrated in  FIG.  13 A . Block  622  illustrates associating wireless tag  40  with a device, such as electronic device  10  or external device  30 , as in block  204  of  FIG.  5   . In block  624 , controller  28  monitors the data sent from radio transceiver  56  received by radio transceiver  24  for a predetermined signal. Controller  48  commands radio transceiver  56  to send the predetermined signal upon a signal received from user input  610 . In one embodiment, user input  610  sends the signal to controller  48  upon user input  610  being touched a single time. In another embodiment, user input  610  sends the signal to controller  48  upon user input  610  being touched one or more times. Being touched may include a user pressing or clicking user input  610  as a button, or touching or pointing to user input  610  as an icon on a screen. In block  626 , if controller  48  does not detect the predetermined signal, the system returns to block  624  to monitor. If the signal is received, in block  628  a predetermined action is taken. Predetermined actions may include, but are not limited to, recording data on electronic device  10 , sending data to external device  30 , recording data from sensor  42 , recording the location of electronic device  10 , purchasing an item, sending or receiving a payment, or sounding alarm  16  or alarm  46 . 
     An exemplary process  630  for associating wireless tag  40  with a device, such as electronic device  10  or external device  30  is illustrated in  FIG.  13 B . If wireless tag  40  is to be secured to an object, block  632  illustrates securing wireless tag  40  to object  70 . In another embodiment, wireless tag  40  is not secured to an object  70 , and block  632  is omitted. In block  634 , wireless tag  40  is associated with electronic device  10 . In block  636 , controller  28  monitors the data sent from radio transceiver  56  received by radio transceiver  24  for a predetermined signal. In one embodiment, controller  48  commands radio transceiver  56  to send the predetermined signal upon a signal received from user input  610 . User input  610  sends the signal to controller  48  upon user input  610  being touched. Being touched may include a user pressing or clicking user input  610  as a button, or touching or pointing to user input  610  as an icon on a screen. In block  638 , if controller  48  does not detect the predetermined signal, the system returns to block  624  to monitor. If the signal is received, in block  640  controller  48  associates wireless tag  40  with external device  30 . In another embodiment, a controller and radio transceiver associated with external device  30  perform as controller  48  and radio transceiver  48  above and associates wireless tag  40  with external device  30 . 
       FIG.  14    illustrates an anti-theft or anti-loss embodiment of the disclosed system. In  FIG.  14    A, wireless tags  40 A,  40 B are less than a predetermined distance or range  82  from electronic device  10 . In  FIG.  14 B , wireless tag  40 B is more than a predetermined distance or range  82  from electronic device  10 . Alarm  16  on electronic device  10  and alarm  46  on tag  40 B are activated, while alarm  46  on tag  40 A is not activated. 
     In another embodiment, an electronic device  10  may activate alarm  46  when a wireless tag  40  returns to within a predetermined distance or range of electronic device  10 . This embodiment may be used with previously associated or unassociated tags. In one embodiment, a previously associated tag  40  is attached to a piece of luggage, which is then taken out of the predetermined distance or range from electronic device  10 . When tag  40  and attached luggage re-enter the predetermined distance or range from electronic device  10 , such as in a baggage claim area for example, either alarm  16  on electronic device  10  or alarm  46  on tag  40  or both are activated. 
     Referring next to  FIG.  15   , an exemplary embodiment of an RF-enabled object  84  according to the present disclosure is disclosed. The RF-enabled object  84  is similar to the combination of the wireless tag  40  coupled to the object  70  described in  FIG.  2 A  above. Similar to wireless tag  40 , RF-enabled object  84  in some embodiments includes controller  48 ′ controlling radio transceiver  56 ′ and power supply  60 ′. RF-enabled object  84  may additional include memory  49 ′. Memory  49 ′ includes instructions executed by controller  48 ′. Radio transceiver  56 ′ sends and/or receives data from other radio transceivers, including radio transceiver  24  incorporated in electronic device  10 . In one embodiment, radio transceiver  56 ′ is a Bluetooth (R) transceiver that operates on Bluetooth protocols. In another embodiment, radio transceiver  56 ′ operates on RF protocols. In still another embodiment, radio transceiver  56 ′ operates on NFC protocols. Other suitable radio transceivers may also be used. In one embodiment, at least some of the data exchanged is encrypted. Exemplary RF-enabled objects  84  include Bluetooth, NFC or RF enabled devices such as phones, tablets, goggles, watches, electronics, and other suitable objects. 
     Similar to wireless tag  40 , RF-enabled object  84  may include one or more of sensors  42 ′, a user interface  54 ′ comprising one or more I/O modules including alarm  46 ′ and button  44 ′, distance monitor  58 ′, data transmitter  50 ′, and data receiver  52 ′. In yet still another embodiment, RF-enabled object  84  may include a GPS or other suitable location detection technologies (not shown). 
     RF-enabled object  84  collects status and position data similar to the previously described ways wireless tag  40  collects status and position data. Exemplary data include data similar to that illustrated in  FIGS.  3  and  4    corresponding to the RF-enabled object  84  rather than wireless tag  40 . Other exemplary data include the time, the absolute position and direction determined by electronic device  10 , the status of one or more RF-enabled objects  84  as in range/out of range as determined by the electronic device  10 , data from one or more sensors  42 ′ attached to or integrated in RF-enabled object  84 , and the status of any command executed by controllers  28  and/or  48 ′. 
       FIGS.  16 A and  16 B  illustrate exemplary processes  700 ,  720  of the RF-enabled object  84  system in an anti-theft or anti-loss embodiment. Process  700  for RF-enabled object  84  is similar to process  200  for wireless tag  40  discussed above in relation to  FIG.  5 A . Process  720  for RF-enabled object  84  is similar to process  220  for wireless tag  40  discussed above in relation to  FIG.  5 B . 
     In  FIG.  16 A , the block  704  illustrates associating RF-enabled object  84  with electronic device  10 . In one embodiment, block  704  includes selecting a name and/or icon for RF-enabled object  84 . In another embodiment, associating RF-enabled object  84  is performed through a user interface  22  on electronic device  10 . In block  706 , a range or distance between RF-enabled object  84  and electronic device  10  is selected. In block  708 , the connection between RF-enabled object  84  and electronic device  10  is monitored by both controller  28  of electronic device  10  and controller  48 ′ of RF-enabled object  84 . If the connection between radio transceiver  24  and radio transceiver  56 ′ is broken as shown in block  710 , an alarm is activated in block  716  and data is saved in block  718 . If in block  710  the connection is not broken, in block  712  the distance between electronic device  10  and RF-enabled object  84  as determined by distance monitor  26  is monitored. As shown in block  714 , if the distance is less than the distance or range selected in block  706 , the system returns to block  708  to monitor the connection. If the distance is not less than the set distance or range, an alarm is activated in block  716  and data is saved locally to electronic device  10  and sent to external device  30  as described above. In another embodiment (not shown) an additional predetermined action is taken or command is activated in addition to the alarm and data communication. 
       FIG.  16 B  illustrates a variant process  720  of the exemplary anti-loss or anti-theft process described above. In the process illustrated in  FIG.  16 B , if the distance or range in block  714  is less than the distance selected in block  706 , in block  719  data is saved locally to electronic device  10  and sent to external device  30  as in block  718  before returning to block  708  to monitor the connection. 
       FIGS.  16 C and  16 D  illustrate additional variant process  722 ,  724  of the exemplary anti-loss or anti-theft processes  700 ,  720  of  FIGS.  16 A and  16 B . Process  722  is similar to process  700 , and process  724  is similar to process  720 . In both processes  722  and  724 , in block  707 , in addition to the range or distance between RF-enabled object  84  and electronic device  10  is selected as in block  706  of  FIG.  16 A , a profile is selected. In one embodiment, a profile is a set settings, where each setting is an action based on a predetermined condition. Exemplary settings include whether to alarm or not based on a predetermined condition, such as the location, the time, the temperature, etc. One exemplary setting is to disable the alarm during the weekends. Another exemplary setting is to disable the alarm in a predetermined location, such as a user&#39;s work. In these embodiments, if the connection is broken in block  710 , or if the distance is less than the set range/distance in block  714 , block  724  first determines whether the current profile settings allow for an alarm. If the profile allows for an alarm, the alarm is activated in block  716  as in  FIG.  16 A . If the profile does not allow for an alarm, the system returns to block  708  to monitor the signal. 
       FIGS.  17 A and  17 B  illustrate an anti-theft or anti-loss embodiment of the disclosed system for RF-enabled objects  84  similar to  FIGS.  14 A and  14 B  for wireless tags  40 . In  FIG.  17 A , RF-enabled objects  84 ,  86  are less than a predetermined distance or range  82  from electronic device  10 . In  FIG.  17 B , RF-enabled object  86  is more than a predetermined distance or range  82  from electronic device  10 . Alarm  16  on electronic device  10  and alarm  46 ′ on RF-enabled object  86  are activated, while alarm  46 ′ on RF-enabled object  84  is not activated. In one embodiment, at least one of electronic device  10  and RF-enabled object  86  update and save the time alarm  46 ′ was activated and the location of electronic device  10  when alarm  46 ′ was activated to an external device  30 . 
     The exemplary processes illustrated in  FIGS.  5 - 11    may similarly be implemented using RF-enabled object  84  in place of wireless tag  40  secured to an object  70 . 
       FIG.  18    illustrates a system architecture  560  similar system architecture  500  to that illustrated in  FIG.  12   . Within the exemplary system architecture  560 , both wireless tags  40  and RF-enabled objects  84  and  86  are provided. Additional wireless tags  40  and RF-enabled objects  84  may also be provided. RF-enabled objects  84 ,  86 , and wireless tag  40  are in communication with electronic device  510 ′. In one embodiment, electronic device  510 ′ is an electronic device  10  as previously described. Electronic device  510 ′ includes a software program or application for communicating with RF-enabled objects  84 ,  86 , wireless tag  40 , and a machine/network/cloud  520 ′. In one embodiment, machine/network/cloud  520 ′ is an external device  30 . 
     The software program or application includes a user interface  512 ′. In one embodiment, user interface  512 ′ is user interface  22 . Machine/network/cloud  520 ′ also includes a user interface  522 ′. In one embodiment, user interfaces  512 ′,  522 ′ provide access to data, programs, and applications stored locally on electronic device  510 ′ and machine/network/cloud  520 ′. 
     In one embodiment, user interface  522 ′ allows a user to view, query, organize, and categorize data stored on external device  520 ′ gathered through data sent by electronic devices  510 ′, RF-enabled objects  84 ,  86 , and wireless tag  40 . In another embodiment, user interface  522 ′ can be used to initiate commands or activate alarms on RF-enabled objects  84 ,  86 , wireless tag  40 , and electronic device  510 ′. In still another embodiment, user interface  522 ′ allows a user to lock, program the device, initiate an action, remotely backup or wipe reset electronic device  510 ′ having a software program or application for communicating with wireless tags  40 . 
     In one exemplary embodiment, system architecture  560  includes an API  530 ′. API  530 ′ is similar to API  530  described in relation to  FIG.  12   . In another exemplary embodiment, system architecture  560  includes a software development kit (SDK)  550 ′. SDK  550 ′ is similar to SDK  550  described in relation  FIG.  12   . 
     Applications  540 ′ may be downloaded by users to their electronic device such as that shown in  510 ′, to a machine/network/cloud such as that shown in  520 ′, or reside on a machine/network/cloud for access through a web browser or other suitable software and/or user interface from an electronic device, such as  510 ′, or a server. 
     In one exemplary embodiment, system architecture  560  allows for access to RF-enabled objects  84 ,  86  for use in application  540 ′. The machine/network/cloud  520 ′ can be configured to grant access or set permissions to allow certain users access to modules or allow different users different types or levels of access of RF-enabled objects  84 ,  86 , including sensors  42 ′, alarms  46 ′, controllers  48 ′, data transmitters  50 ′, data receivers  52 ′, user interface  54 ′, radio transceiver  56 ′, distance monitor  58 ′, and power supply  60 ′, and other suitable modules. Additional suitable modules include, but are not limited to, cameras and microphones. Applications  540 ′ can be thus designed to use the modules of RF-enabled objects  84 ,  86 . 
     In another exemplary embodiment, system architecture  560  allows for a user to set one or more sets of permissions based on the current status of one or more modules of wireless tags  40 ,  502 ,  504 , and RF-enabled objects  84 ,  86 , including sensors  42   42 ′, alarms  46   46 ′, controllers  48   48 ′, data transmitters  50   50 ′, data receivers  52   52 ′, user interface  54   54 ′, radio transceiver  56   56 ′, distance monitor  58   58 ′, and power supply  60   60 ′. 
     In an exemplary embodiment, a first set of users is provided permissions to access the certain recorded data from wireless tag  40  or RF-enabled object  84  when under a first condition, and a second set of users is provided permissions to access the certain recorded data from wireless tag  40  or RF-enabled object  84  when under a second condition. 
     In a more particular embodiment, only the owner of electronic device  10  is granted access to view a history of locations and times recorded from electronic device  10 , wireless tags  40 , or RF-enabled objects  84  as long as wireless tags  40  or RF-enabled objects  84  do not exceed a predetermined distance from electronic device  10 . If the predetermined distance from electronic device  10  has been exceeded, a larger group of users, for examples friends, authorities, co-workers, or other designated individuals or groups to whom the owner has selected, can then access the history of locations and times recorded from electronic device  10 , wireless tags  40 , or RF-enabled objects  84  from the alarm position forward in time. In this way, the friends can assist the owner in locating or recovering the wireless tag  40  or RF-enabled object  84  which was taken beyond the predetermined distance. 
     In another more particular embodiment, once a wireless tag  40  or active device  84  has exceeded a predetermined distance from electronic device  10 , wireless tag  40  or active device  84  is configured to be detectable by multiple radio transceiver systems. Thus, an unassociated radio transceiver  24  or data receiver  20  associated with a second electronic device  10  in communication with external device  30  is able to detect a predetermined radio signal or type of signal from wireless tag  40  or active device  84  and upload and save the current location of the wireless tag  40  or active device  84  to the external device  30 . In this way, the location of wireless tag  40  or active device  84  can be updated on the external device  30  or machine/network/cloud  520   520 ′, allowing the owner of wireless tag  40  or active device  84  to monitor its location even when wireless tag  40  or active device  84  is not in contact with electronic device  10 . 
     While this invention has been described as relative to exemplary designs, the present invention may be further modified within the spirit and scope of this disclosure. Further, this application is intended to cover such departures from the present disclosure as come within known or customary practice in the art to which this invention pertains.