When I first saw Badge, it reminded me of being a kid and getting a new jacket. My mom would always write my name on the inside of the jacket, the idea being that if I ever lost it, someone who knew me would return the coat. Badge is basically the iPhone version of that, for better or worse.
On one hand, an app that swiftly walks you through a few quick screens collecting your name, an emergency contact, and an alternate number you can be reached at feels like an obvious, but good idea. Within a few minutes you can set up this contact card to appear as your background when your iPhone is locked. Simple, easy and probably the only way you’ll ever get your iPhone back if you lose it.
On the other hand, I feel a little conflicted about anyone having any more of my personal information than they already would have if they simply had my iPhone without the lock screen Badge info. There’s probably nothing they couldn’t figure out by checking out your Facebook app, but it still makes me leery just the same.
If you can get past putting that info right out there on your iPhone, Badge performs quite admirably. When you set up your contact badge you can change the font style and text color to make sure it’s legible over whatever background you’ve selected. You can even change the language in case you’re worried about losing your iPhone when you’re traveling out of the country.
If you’re the kind of person who is terrible at keeping track of things, Badge seems worth the $1 investment. Owning the app is basically the difference between guaranteeing you’ll never see your iPhone again and at least providing a glimmer of hope that a good Samaritan will get in touch with you.
