During CES 2012 we were introduced to the BiKN, an iPhone case-dongle solution for finding and tracking your stuff. The BiKN was a hit at CES but it is expensive ($130 US) and burdened by a case that you must use. Louis Gerbarg and Geoff Litwack have come up with a much simpler and lighter solution called the Hone and now they have a Kickstarter project focused on getting it into the public’s hands. Video after the break.

The Hone (for the iPhone 4S and the new iPad) is a Bluetooth 4.0 low energy device for your keychain that lights up and audibly vibrates when triggered (via an iOS app) so you can find your keys. The included CR2032 battery runs for six months and has a 150+ foot range. Here’s how it works: put the Hone on your keychain after downloading the iOS app, when the app and device automatically pair, tap the ‘Find’ button in the app to find your keys. If you don’t hear or see it immediately, walk around with the app open because the Hone has a built-in proximity sensor. Simple, easy and efficient - just like Apple.

Louis and Geoff started this Kickstarter project because electronics manufacturing is an expensive, complex endeavor. The molds for the Hone’s case will cost over $16,000 so without Kickstarter they wouldn’t be able to manufacture these and absorb all the costs. Donating to this pledge starts at $20 for a cap but it will take $49 to reserve your very own Hone if the project is a success. $49 is much less than the BiKN model and it a lot more streamlined but just as effective. If you feel like donating more, they have several options as well. The goal is $46,000 and with 28 days to go they have almost 200 backers and over $11,000 raised.

If you’re one of the many that often misplaces your keys, or anything else you want to stick this on, head on over the Hone’s project page and donate so that this project can be a success.