Gorilla®-mobile: Smartphone alarm system

Smartphone Alarm System

Gorilla-mobile is the world's first real alarm system for smartphones and tablets. It is a pure hardware solution that requires no app on the smartphone. The design, created by Erich Kamperschroer of Gorilla Electronics, features an integrated key that, when plugged between the charger and smartphone, prevents disconnection without triggering a loud alarm bell.

The Gorilla-mobile alarm system is designed to be iconic and producible using standard molding techniques. The body is made of PC-ABS, while a translucent polycarbonate ring in the middle blinks to indicate when the smartphone is protected. The lid, made of aluminum or a similar material, adds a valuable look and feel to the design. The key is seamlessly integrated into the design, making it easy to use.

The product measures 98mm in length, 54mm at its broadest side, and is 18mm thick. Its compact size allows it to easily slide into a pocket. To use, simply connect the cables and release the key.

When a charging smartphone needs protection from opportunistic theft, Gorilla-mobile is plugged in between the charging line, and the key is removed. The device blinks to indicate that the smartphone is protected, effectively tethering it to the wall. Any attempt to disconnect the device triggers the loud alarm bell.

The Gorilla-mobile alarm system can also be used to secure tablets, laptops, or handbags by creating a loop and tethering them to a secure object. This prevents theft without the alarm sounding.

The project started in October 2014, and the market launch was in May 2015. The design team, consisting of Erich Kamperschroer of Gorilla Electronics, Bart Kip and Tim Mulder of Brightbird Design Centre, Gertjan Drent of Fluctus, and Andries Pasma of Freelux Worldwide BV, used standard project management methods to ensure the successful realization of the product.

Gorilla-mobile is the result of extensive research and development. The team focused on creating a unique and iconic design that could be mass-produced using standard molding techniques. Rapid prototypes were used to test construction details, and functional tests were conducted using precise samples.

The main challenge in the design process was combining a small form factor with a loud alarm siren and mass-market capable engineering. The team successfully overcame this challenge by creating a stable design that accommodates all components within a compact size.

Gorilla-mobile was awarded the Silver A' Design Award in the Digital and Electronic Device Design category in 2015. This prestigious award recognizes the design's outstanding expertise, innovation, and technical characteristics. The design showcases a remarkable level of excellence and introduces positive feelings, amazement, and wonder.