Power outage tracking just got hyper-local. Ting, known for its smart outlet device that monitors home wiring for fire risks, has launched a new feature in its mobile app: a free, real-time power outage map accessible to anyone, regardless of whether they own a Ting sensor.

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The Ting app's outage map shows incidents down to the neighborhood level. (Image: Elyse Betters Picaro / ZDNET)

How the Crowdsourced Map Works

The app leverages data from Ting's existing network of over a million devices plugged into homes across the United States. When a Ting sensor loses power, it instantly reports the outage. This data aggregates into a public map, pinpointing outages with neighborhood-level precision. Users can view active outages nearby and opt-in for instant push notifications when power fails or is restored in their designated area.

Filling the Gaps in Traditional Outage Alerts

"While most utilities offer outage alerts, delays are common," notes ZDNET's review. "Restoration notifications can lag by an hour or more after power actually returns." Ting aims to provide faster, more granular visibility. The company claims a Ting sensor exists within one mile of 95% of U.S. homes, largely driven by partnerships like State Farm's distribution of 700,000 devices to insurance customers (with plans to reach 2 million).

Current Limitations and Future Potential

Initial testing revealed coverage gaps; one user found the nearest reported outage 162 miles away despite local utility reports showing closer incidents. Ting acknowledges accuracy depends on sensor density. Areas with fewer devices will have sparser data. However, as the network grows—fueled by free hardware promotions—the map's resolution and reliability are expected to improve significantly.

Why This Matters for Tech and Infrastructure

This move represents a shift for Ting from a purely fire-safety product to a broader infrastructure monitoring platform. It demonstrates the power of crowdsourced IoT data for real-time public services. For developers and smart home enthusiasts, it highlights innovative uses of distributed sensor networks beyond their primary function. The app provides immediate, practical value for residents in storm-prone areas or those simply wanting faster restoration updates than their utility provides. Its success hinges on continued network expansion, but the foundation for a truly community-powered grid awareness tool is now live.

Source: ZDNET