Apple AirTag: A lifesaver
Apple AirTags are Bluetooth trackers designed to help you find lost items. They’re small, sleek, and integrate seamlessly with iPhones. But are they perfect? Let’s dive in.
Simple setup, frustration-free use
Setting up an AirTag is as easy as pairing AirPods. A satisfying chime confirms connection, and the Find My app lets you assign names and icons. Attaching AirTags to keychains, bags, or wallets is simple with various accessories (sold separately).
Finding lost items: mostly smooth sailing
AirTags shine when finding misplaced belongings nearby. Play a sound to locate them within Bluetooth range. The app guides you with a distance meter and arrow, making hunting a breeze.
Precision Finding: a superpower for iPhone 11 and later
For iPhone 11 and later users, Precision Finding takes things up a notch. It uses Ultra Wideband chip technology to pinpoint AirTags with incredible accuracy, like a virtual treasure hunt.
The power of the Apple network: finding things far away
AirTags leverage the vast network of Apple devices around the world. When your AirTag is out of Bluetooth range, anonymous signals from nearby iPhones can update its location.
Privacy matters: unwanted tracking is discouraged
Apple prioritizes privacy. An AirTag separated from its owner for too long will emit a sound to alert anyone nearby. This discourages using AirTags for malicious tracking.
Lost Mode: get help returning your item
If you truly lose something with an AirTag, Lost Mode lets you display a contact phone number. Anyone with an NFC-enabled phone can scan the AirTag to see your information and potentially return your lost item.
Battery life: replaceable, but not ideal
A user-replaceable CR2032 coin battery powers AirTags. Apple claims year-long battery life, but heavy use can drain it faster. Replacing the battery requires removing the backplate, which can be fiddly.
Cost: affordable upfront, but accessories add up
At $29 each or $99 for a four-pack, AirTags themselves are reasonably priced. However, essential accessories like keychains and straps are sold separately, inflating the overall cost.
Limited range: Bluetooth is not magic
AirTags rely on Bluetooth for nearby locating. If your lost item is far away or in a building with weak signals, finding it can be tricky.
Not ideal for tracking people or pets
AirTags aren’t GPS trackers. They update location based on passing Apple devices, making them unsuitable for real-time tracking of people or pets.
Security concerns: potential for stalking
While safeguards are in place, some worry that AirTags could be misused for stalking. The privacy features are a good start, but vigilance is still needed.
Android compatibility: a work in progress
There’s currently no dedicated Find My app for Android. Android users can only interact with lost AirTags via NFC scan, offering limited functionality.
Overall: a valuable tool with room for improvement
AirTags are a welcome addition for iPhone users who frequently misplace things. The ease of use, integration with Find My app, and Precision Finding features are fantastic. However, limitations like Bluetooth range and lack of robust Android support hold them back from being universally perfect.
So, should you buy an AirTag?
If you’re an iPhone user who loses keys, wallets, or bags often, AirTags are a lifesaver. However, if you need a tracker for real-time pet or person location, or primarily use an Android device, alternative trackers might be a better fit.