Apple Airtag - How this tracking device works

Photo of author
Stealth
Update:

The first generation of Apple Airtag devices was launched by Apple in early 2021, and managed to quickly capture a large number of users. Apple Airtag is a relatively cheap device (especially for an Apple product) and of great help in those times when the keys, wallet, backpack or other valuable objects are lost.

What is Apple Airtag and how can this device help you?

Apple Airtag is a smart tracking device, with a compact and minimalist design, specially created to help you quickly locate lost or lost personal objects. With the shape of a small disc, Airtag is noted for its small dimensions: a diameter of only 31.9 mm, a thickness of 8 mm and a weight of only 11 grams.

Apple AirTag
Apple AirTag

How Apple Airtag works

The Airtag works via the Find My, available iPhone, iPad or Mac application, giving the user the opportunity to locate the device on an interactive map, in the same way as other Apple associated devices can be located. Due to Ultra WideBand (UWB) technology integrated into compatible devices, the location can be extremely accurate, and the precision founding function allows you to find the Airtag with clear indications and directions.

You don't have to be with iPhone near the Airtag in order to be located. The extended Find MY network uses millions of Apple devices around the world to help identify your location of your Airtag, without compromising your data confidentiality. Basically, in order to be able to locate your Airtag device, it is sufficient that an Apple device with Find My Activated, of any user in the world will be found.

Lost mode (Lost Mode) for Airtag

Apple Airtag becomes even more useful when activated Lost Mode (lost mode), giving you a smart solution to recover lost objects. Like the other Apple devices, your Airtag can be set in this special way, and if it is detected by another device from the Apple MY global network, you will automatically receive a notification. Thus, you have the chance to locate your goods quickly and efficiently even when they are not in your ray of direct action.

Moreover, Lost Mode allows any person who finds your Airtag to access your contact information. All you have to do is reach the Airtag with an NFC compatible smartphone, the technology used for mobile payments. This function greatly improves the chances that the lost objects are returned, making Airtag not only a tracking device, but also an efficient means of finding the lost things with the direct help of other people.

The Apple Airtag device is also equipped with a built-in speaker, which emits a distinct sound to help you find it easier when you are near it.

Sharing airtag with friends or family members

Starting with iOS 17, the location of objects with the help of Airtag has become a team activity. Airtag can be shared with up to five people, giving family friends or members the opportunity to pursue common objects. Whether it is the house keys, a bicycle or family car keys, everyone you have shared the Airtag will be able to use the Apple Find My network to locate it quickly and precisely.

This function makes Airtag even more versatile, turning it into a very good tool for finding commonly used, giving the peace that, no matter who needs, it can immediately find what it is looking for.

Apple Airtag Huses and Accessories

With the help of Airtag covers, this device can be easily put as a keyboard, hanging by the backpack or caught at the dog or cat's collar. In fact, many pet manufacturers have launched scratches with a special place for Apple Airtag.

A Cratag Cat
A Cratag Cat

So if you have a puppy or a cat, with an Airtag attached to the scratch you can permanently know where it is.

Answers to frequent questions

1. What battery life are AirTag?

Apple estimates that the original Airtag battery has 1 year autonomy, but this duration may vary in several factors. Level of use, signal quality, environmental factors.

2. Can you change the battery to Airtag?

Yes, the Airtag battery can change, and I think it is the only Apple device to which the battery can be changed by the user. The compatible battery is 3V CR2032 with lithium, which can be found in almost all electronic stores. It is preferable for the battery to be produced by a trusted company and write on it "Apple Airtag".

Airtag battery change
Airtag battery change

3. From what distance an Apple device can detect an airtag?

It is estimated that the range of an Airtag can reach up to about 240 meters in open spaces, without obstacles, but in practice, the range is much smaller. It depends on several factors, such as: walls, doors or other objects that can interfere with the Bluetooth signal, other Bluetooth devices or wireless signals that can also create interference, the iPhone model used for location. Newer iPhone models have a more efficient hardware and can have a larger range.

From what is known so far, the next generation, Airtag 2, will come with an improved face and with an extended range.

Related: Airtag 2 will include three new important features

The precise find function uses Ultra Wideband technology, which means a new iPhone 11 device is needed.

Conclusion

Apple Airtag is more than just a tracking device; It is a combination of advanced technology, minimalist design and intuitive functionality. Whether you want to find the keys quickly, locate your wallet or watch a common object with your family, Airtag gives you an effective and sure way to keep your goods close.

I've been writing passionately since 2004 about Windows and Linux operating systems, and since 2010 I've become a fan of Apple University. I'm currently writing tutorials for Mac, iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, AirPods, and other Apple devices.

2 thoughts on “Apple Airtag - How this tracking device works"

  1. Pingback: iOS 14.5 / Deblocare iPhone cu masca pe fata, App Tracking Transparency (ATT), noi emoji si altele - iHowTo.Tips - How-To Fix & How-To Do
Leave a Comment