Invisawear.com Cons

While Invisawear.com offers an appealing solution for personal safety with its discreet devices and additional support features, a critical review necessitates examining potential drawbacks and limitations.

Read more about invisawear.com:
Invisawear.com Review & First Look
Invisawear.com Features

These aren’t necessarily flaws, but rather aspects that consumers should be fully aware of before making a purchase.

Reliance on Smartphone Connectivity

A significant limitation for many personal safety devices, including Invisawear, is their dependence on a smartphone.

• Bluetooth Range: Most of these devices connect to a smartphone via Bluetooth. This means the phone must be within a certain range (typically 30-100 feet, depending on environment) for the device to function. If the user is separated from their phone during an incident, the Invisawear device may not be able to send an alert.
• Smartphone Battery Life: The overall effectiveness of the Invisawear device relies on the user’s smartphone having sufficient battery power and cellular or Wi-Fi connectivity. A dead phone battery or lack of signal in a remote area would render the device largely ineffective for sending alerts or sharing GPS data.
• Smartphone Security: If the smartphone itself is compromised (e.g., snatched, locked), the user might not be able to access the app for advanced features like SOS chat or live video calling, even if the Invisawear device still triggers the initial alert.

Potential for False Alarms

While a “double-click” activation is designed for ease of use, it also presents a risk of accidental triggers.

• Accidental Activation: In daily wear, especially with active lifestyles or when the device is jostled in a bag, there’s a possibility of inadvertently double-clicking the hidden button. This could lead to unnecessary alerts to emergency contacts or even 9-1-1, potentially causing undue stress or incurring service fees if frequent.
• Handling False Alarms: The website doesn’t explicitly detail the protocol for handling false alarms. Clear instructions on how to cancel an accidental alert promptly and the consequences of repeated false alarms (e.g., service suspension, charges) are important for user awareness.

Ethical Implications of Self-Defense Accessories (e.g., Pepper Sprays, Cup Covers)

The inclusion of items like pepper sprays and cup covers on the Invisawear website, while marketed under self-defense, raises ethical questions regarding their effectiveness and potential for misuse.

• Risk of Escalation: Relying on tools like pepper spray can, in some situations, escalate a confrontation rather than deter it. An attacker might react violently if sprayed, potentially increasing the danger to the user. Proper training for such tools is crucial, and even then, their use carries inherent risks.
• Legality and Regulations: The legality of carrying and using pepper spray varies by state and municipality in the US. Consumers need to be aware of local laws, as improper use or possession could lead to legal repercussions. The website doesn’t prominently feature disclaimers or guidance on these legal aspects.
• False Sense of Security: For some users, possessing such a device might create a false sense of invincibility, leading them to be less vigilant or take unnecessary risks. True safety often stems from situational awareness, avoidance, and de-escalation rather than a reliance on a single defensive tool.
• Cup Covers: While seemingly benign and aimed at preventing drink spiking, cup covers are a reactive measure against a serious crime. Their effectiveness hinges on consistent use and vigilance, and they don’t address the root causes of such malicious acts.

Subscription Model for Advanced Features

While not explicitly detailed on the homepage, the advanced features (Live Video Calling, Reassurance Calls, SOS Chat, Voice Activation, 9-1-1 notification, Self-Defense Classes) strongly imply a subscription model.

• Ongoing Costs: Consumers might initially be drawn in by the device’s upfront price, only to discover recurring monthly or annual fees are necessary to access the most valuable safety features. Transparency on these costs from the outset is crucial for budgeting and managing expectations.
• Feature Tiering: It’s common for companies to tier features, with basic alerts free and advanced services requiring a premium subscription. If the core “peace of mind” comes from features locked behind a paywall, it might deter some users or lead to dissatisfaction.

Unclear Service Response Times and Protocols

For an emergency device, the speed and nature of the response are paramount, but details are scarce on the website. Invisawear.com Features

• 9-1-1 Dispatch Specifics: How quickly does Invisawear dispatch 9-1-1? Is it a direct connection or through a third-party call center? What information is relayed to emergency services? These details significantly impact the perceived effectiveness of the service.
• Live Video/Chat Response Time: What are the expected response times for live video calls or SOS chat? In a developing emergency, minutes or even seconds can make a difference. Users need to understand the service level agreements for these features.