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CES: Bringrr makes sure you've brought your phone

The Bringrr Classic and Charge models use Bluetooth to check that you haven't forgotten to bring your phone every time you start your car.

Antuan Goodwin Reviews Editor / Cars
Antuan Goodwin gained his automotive knowledge the old fashioned way, by turning wrenches in a driveway and picking up speeding tickets. From drivetrain tech and electrification to car audio installs and cabin tech, if it's on wheels, Antuan is knowledgeable.
Expertise Reviewing cars and car technology since 2008 focusing on electrification, driver assistance and infotainment Credentials
  • North American Car, Truck and SUV of the Year (NACTOY) Awards Juror
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Antuan Goodwin

The Bringrr Classic and Charge models use Bluetooth to check that you haven't forgotten to bring your phone.
The Bringrr Classic and Charge models use Bluetooth to check that you haven't forgotten to bring your phone. Antuan Goodwin/CNET

LAS VEGAS--A techie and his smartphone are seldom separated, but even the most phone-obsessed of us have had moments where we've left for work or walked out of a bar without our precious phone.

The Bringrr Charge includes a powered USB port for keeping your handset juiced while you drive.
The Bringrr Charge includes a powered USB port for keeping your handset juiced while you drive. Antuan Goodwin/CNET

On hand at CES 2011 is a neat little car tech gadget called the Bringrr, which wirelessly checks that your mobile phone is in the car when you embark on a trip. The Bringrr sits in your vehicle's 12-volt charger and pairs with your phone via Bluetooth. When it senses the car starting, it pings your phone wirelessly. If the phone is present, nothing happens and you can continue your trip without interruption. However, if the phone isn't in range, the Bringrr will pulse a red LED and audibly notify you to check for your phone.

There are two Bringrr designs available: the Bringrr Classic for $34.95, and the Bringrr Charge, which adds a USB charging port and includes Mini- and a Micro-USB charging cables for $39.95. Also available is the Bringrr Power Pack, which bundles the Bringrr Charge with a USB wall charger for $44.95.