Apple’s AirTag is a small device that helps you keep track of your belongings. It connects to the Find My network, a system of Apple devices that helps you locate your missing items. When you attach an AirTag to something like keys or a wallet, it uses nearby devices to update its location. Anyone with an iPhone, iPad, or a compatible Android phone can then use the Find My app to see where their item was last located, making it easier to find lost objects. AirTags use Bluetooth technology to connect to the Find My network, which includes millions of Apple devices worldwide. Newer models also use Ultra-Wideband technology to provide a more accurate location when searching for a nearby item, a feature called Precision Finding.
Understanding Apple’s AirTag Technology
AirTags are small, handy tracking devices that can help you find lost items like keys, wallets, backpacks, and more. But how exactly do they work? Let’s break down the technology behind AirTags.
Bluetooth Signaling
AirTags use Bluetooth to send out secure signals. These signals can be picked up by nearby Apple devices that are part of Apple’s “Find My” network. This network includes hundreds of millions of iPhones, iPads, and Macs around the world.
Location Tracking Through the ‘Find My’ Network
When a nearby Apple device detects your AirTag’s signal, it anonymously sends the location information to iCloud (Apple’s cloud storage). You can then access this location data through the “Find My” app on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac. This allows you to see your AirTag’s location on a map.
Privacy and Security Features
Apple takes user privacy seriously with AirTags. Here’s how they ensure your information remains secure:
- Encryption: The communication between your AirTag, other Apple devices, and iCloud is encrypted for protection.
- Anonymity: The Apple devices that help locate your AirTag don’t know who it belongs to or who’s searching for it.
- Anti-Stalking Features: AirTags have built-in features to prevent unwanted tracking. For instance, if an unknown AirTag is moving with you, your iPhone will alert you.
Additional AirTag Features
Beyond location tracking, AirTags offer a few other handy features:
- Precision Finding: If you’re within close range of your lost AirTag, you can use your iPhone with a U1 chip (iPhone 11 and later) for Precision Finding, which gives you directional arrows to its location
- Sound Alerts: You can make your AirTag play a sound to help you find it.
Are AirTags rechargeable?
No, AirTags are not rechargeable. They use a replaceable CR2032 coin cell battery that typically lasts about a year.
Can AirTags get wet?
Yes, AirTags are water-resistant with an IP67 rating. This means they can be submerged in up to 1 meter of water for up to 30 minutes. However, it’s not recommended to intentionally expose them to water.
AirTag Geofencing
While AirTags don’t have built-in geofencing, you can use third-party apps or automations to create geofences. This allows you to receive notifications when an AirTag enters or leaves a specific area.
Things to put AirTags on
You can attach AirTags to various items, such as:
- Keys
- Backpacks
- Wallets
- Luggage
- Pets (using a dedicated pet collar attachment)
- Bicycles
- Remote controls
- And more!
AirTag Competitors
Here’s a table of some popular AirTag alternatives:
| Product | Manufacturer | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Tile Mate | Tile | Similar tracking features, more affordable |
| Samsung Galaxy SmartTag | Samsung | Works primarily with Samsung devices |
| Chipolo ONE | Chipolo | Loud sound, various colors |
AirTags are a simple yet powerful tool to keep track of your important possessions, offering a robust location tracking system with strong privacy protections.
Key Takeaways
- AirTags are designed to locate personal items using the Find My network.
- They use Bluetooth and Ultra-Wideband technology for location tracking.
- The Find My app allows users to see the last known position of their AirTag.
Understanding AirTags and How They Work
AirTags are small, coin-shaped devices designed by Apple that help users track and locate their belongings using Bluetooth technology. They’re part of the larger Find My network, which spans across various Apple devices.
Design and Technology
Apple’s AirTag is a small, round device, measuring about 1.26 inches in diameter. It fits easily onto key rings and slips into pockets or bags. Each AirTag is powered by a CR2032 battery, which is easily replaceable and lasts for about a year. The technology within includes a Bluetooth signal for location tracking, a U1 chip for Precision Finding, and NFC for easy setup.
Setup and Compatibility
Setting up an AirTag is simple. It pairs with an iPhone or iPad by just bringing it close to the device. The pairing process starts automatically, guided by the on-screen instructions. AirTags require iOS devices, and for the Precision Finding feature to work, an iPhone 11 or newer is needed because of the U1 chip requirement.
Tracking and Finding
Once an AirTag is set up, it can be seen on the Find My App map. Locations are updated when the AirTag comes into Bluetooth range of any device in the Find My network. The Precision Finding feature enables users with compatible iPhones to get more accurate directions to their AirTag, thanks to the U1 chip enabling ultra-wideband technology. If an item is not within Bluetooth range, the AirTag sends out a Bluetooth signal that can be detected by devices in the Find My network, updating its location anonymously and securely.
Security, Privacy, and Usage Considerations
When using AirTags, it’s key to be aware of how they protect privacy while helping you track your important items.
Unwanted Tracking Prevention
AirTags are designed to deter unwanted tracking. If an AirTag that isn’t registered to you is moving with you, your iPhone will alert you to its presence. For those without an iPhone, an AirTag will start playing a sound after being separated from its owner for a period of time, alerting anyone nearby. This feature aims to prevent the device from being used to stalk individuals without their awareness.
Privacy and Security Measures
Apple has taken steps to safeguard the privacy of AirTag users. The location data and history are never stored directly on the AirTag, ensuring that no one else can access your item’s locations. These location transmissions are end-to-end encrypted, so not even Apple can see them. Only the owner’s linked Apple ID can access the location information. In cases where an AirTag is set to Lost Mode, the person who finds your item can only see the contact details you’ve chosen to share.
Practical Uses and Accessories
AirTags have a variety of practical applications. They can be attached to your keys, slipped into a wallet, or hooked onto luggage when you travel. For those with pets, an AirTag can be secured to a pet collar. Accessory makers offer a range of products like key rings and keychain loops, as well as more protective items like the wallet or car mounts. These add-ons help ensure your AirTags stay attached to whatever gear or valuables you want to keep track of.
Frequently Asked Questions
In this section, you’ll find answers to some common questions about AirTags, revealing their tracking capabilities, battery life, and compatibility with various devices.
What is the maximum distance AirTags can track?
AirTags do not have a specific maximum tracking range. They use Bluetooth to communicate with nearby Apple devices in the Find My network, which then relay the AirTag’s location to the owner. The effectiveness of tracking depends on the density of Apple devices in the area.
Can AirTags track my luggage during travel?
Yes, AirTags can help track your luggage during travel. As long as the luggage comes near any device in the Apple Find My network, its location can be updated and shared with you.
How is it possible for AirTags to function without a charge?
AirTags are powered by a standard replaceable coin cell battery. These batteries provide the energy needed for the AirTag to function and do not require recharging.
What is the expected battery life for an AirTag?
The battery life of an AirTag typically lasts for about a year with everyday use before you need to replace it.
Are AirTags suitable for tracking pets?
AirTags can be used to track pets if they wander into the range of devices that are part of the Find My network. However, they are not specifically designed for pet tracking and may not be reliable in rural areas with fewer devices in the network.
Is it possible to use AirTags with Android devices?
While Android devices cannot be part of the Find My network and do not have access to the Find My app, users with Android devices can still help locate lost AirTags. If they find an AirTag, they can use their NFC-capable smartphone to read the tag, which will provide information on how to contact the owner.
How far away do AirTags work from?
AirTags work within Bluetooth range, which is typically about 30 feet (10 meters). However, they can also leverage the vast Find My network of Apple devices to extend their range significantly. If your AirTag is out of Bluetooth range, it can still be located if it comes within range of another Apple device. This means your AirTag can be located even if it’s miles away, as long as there are other Apple devices nearby.
Can AirTag be used to track a car?
Yes, you can use an AirTag to track a car. However, it’s important to note that AirTags are not designed for real-time tracking. They provide periodic location updates, and the frequency of those updates depends on the proximity of other Apple devices. For more reliable car tracking, consider a dedicated GPS tracker.
How do AirTags work out of range?
When an AirTag is out of Bluetooth range of your device, it leverages the Find My network to relay its location. If another Apple device comes within range of your AirTag, it will securely and anonymously send the AirTag’s location to iCloud. You can then see its location in the Find My app.
How does AirTag work without internet?
An AirTag doesn’t need an internet connection to be located. It uses Bluetooth to communicate with nearby Apple devices, which then relay its location to iCloud even if your AirTag is offline. However, you’ll need an internet connection to see the AirTag’s location in the Find My app.
Does AirTag work if no iPhones are around?
No, AirTags rely on the Find My network, which consists of hundreds of millions of Apple devices, including iPhones, iPads, and Macs. If there are no Apple devices nearby, your AirTag won’t be able to relay its location.
How long does an AirTag battery last / how long do airtags last?
The battery in an AirTag typically lasts about a year. When the battery is low, you’ll receive a notification on your iPhone. The battery is a standard CR2032 coin cell battery, which you can easily replace yourself.
How to set up AirTag?
Setting up an AirTag is simple:
- Bring the AirTag close to your iPhone.
- Your iPhone will detect the AirTag and prompt you to connect it.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to name your AirTag and assign it to an item.
How to refresh AirTag location?
To refresh an AirTag’s location:
- Open the Find My app.
- Select the Items tab.
- Tap on the AirTag you want to refresh.
- If the location is not current, you’ll see an option to “Find.” Tap on it to update the location.
What is Lost Mode AirTag?
Lost Mode is a feature that helps you find a lost AirTag. When you put an AirTag in Lost Mode, it will automatically notify you if it’s found by another Apple device in the Find My network. You can also add a message and phone number to the AirTag, so someone who finds it can contact you.
How to scan for AirTags?
You can scan for nearby AirTags using the Find My app on your iPhone.
- Open the Find My app.
- Select the Items tab.
- Tap on “Identify Found Item.”
- Follow the on-screen instructions to scan for nearby AirTags.
How to add AirTag to the second phone?
To add an AirTag to a second phone, you need to use Family Sharing.
- Make sure both phones are using the same Apple ID for Family Sharing.
- On the second phone, open the Find My app.
- Select the Items tab.
- You should see the AirTag listed there. Tap on it to track its location.
Does AirTag make noise?
Yes, AirTags have a built-in speaker that can play a sound to help you locate them when they are nearby. You can trigger the sound from the Find My app.
AirPods AirTag Case
There are various third-party cases available that combine an AirPods case with an AirTag holder. This allows you to keep track of both your AirPods and their case with a single AirTag.
Share AirTag Pending
“Share AirTag Pending” usually means that someone has shared an AirTag with you, but you haven’t accepted the invitation yet. You’ll need to accept the invitation in the Find My app to start tracking the shared AirTag.
