The Fogo smart torch comes packed with all sorts of bonus tech

Smart devices are all the rage these days, but did you ever really feel like you needed a smart torch? It may never have crossed your mind, but it did cross someone else’s. Without further adieu, meet the Fogo smart torch — a torch with more tech than you thought a torch would ever need.

Fogo’s extra features certainly aren’t the kind of thing you need included in the torch you keep in the drawer in case of a power cut. No, these features are designed for the outdoorsy types in the world and it’s supposed to make life easier and safer for them. That’s why Fogo’s main feature is integrated GPS, so people can navigate without the need for a dedicated device that could easily run out of power.

Fogo also has a 1,000 lumen output, a blinking setting to make yourself easier to spot, 128MB of onboard storage, a backlit LCD display, Bluetooth, sensors to keep track of elevation and speed, as well as an apps-based OS. Why a torch would need apps isn’t quite clear, but it would certainly be interesting to see what can be done in that respect.

That’s hardly all that’s included though. Fogo also lets you send and receive texts, a ‘digital walkie talkie’ for voice communications, and sensors that detects crashes and falls and alert someone if they happen. The best part is that the rechargeable battery is removable, so you can carry plenty of spares, and Fogo can be used to charge your other USB devices.

Fogo is currently on Kickstarter looking for backers, and the creators promise that you will be able to get one of your own this September if you pledge $175/£113. That’ll get you the basic Fogo model, and if you want the digital walkie talkie included then you’ll have to cough up an extra $50/£32 to have it included.

Tom Pritchard