After several years of rumours and speculation, Apple finally unveiled its long-awaited tracking device “AirTag” in April 2021. Here is everything you need to know about Apple’s AirTag.
What is an AirTag?
AirTags are small, lightweight, stainless steel discs bearing the Apple logo on one side – users are free to personalize the other side using any of 31 different emojis, alphabet, and numbers (0-50). AirTags are also dust-resistant and water-resistant.
They feature a removable CR2032 battery, which can be easily changed – thanks to the removable cover design. According to Apple, the battery can last for a year with everyday use. Note that AirTags are not rechargeable.
How Does an AirTag Work?
AirTags works with similar principles as the Tile tag. You can fasten the small device onto keys, a bag, or anything you want to track using a separate keychain. You can also use the device without the keychain – simply slip it into the bag or wallet you wish to track.
You can pair AirTag with most Apple devices and require the Find My app. Open the Find My app to see the tracker’s location on a map. You can also use the Find My app to play a sound from the AirTag to easily locate the tracked item.
If you are using an iPhone 11 or 12 model, you can set up Precision Finding, which will help you to know how far you are from the tracked item. It will also guide you to the item through on-screen directions.
How to Set Up an Airtag?
Setting up an AirTag is easy. Simply remove the device from its box and pull out the tab to activate it. Hold the AirTag close to your compatible device, which should soon detect the AirTag and prompt you to set it up. You may name your AirTag after the item you’re tracking. Once the setup is complete, the AirTag is registered to your Apple ID.
AirTag’s Release Date
Although rumours about AirTag have been around since 2019, the device only became available for pre-order on Friday, April 23, 2021, and was officially launched for sale on Friday, April 30, 2021.
AirTag’s Price
You can purchase AirTags directly from Apple. A single AirTag costs $45. This is about the same price as Samsung’s Galaxy SmartTag+ and more affordable than the Tile Pro. Apple allows you to get a pack of four AirTags for $149.
Note that this price covers only the AirTag device. Accessories needed to attach the AirTag to an item are sold separately, and there are a few third-party options to choose from.
AirTag Requires Find My app
Using AirTag doesn’t require a new app as it works with Find My app. AirTag will show up in the Find My app for set up.
AirTag’s Compatible Devices
Although Find My also works on a Mac and MacBooks, AirTag requires an iPod or iPhone Touch with iOS 14.5 or later, or an iPad with iPadOS 14.5 or later. It will also work for anyone with macOS Big Sur 11.1.
AirTag Uses Your Location
You have to enable location services on your devices to use AirTags because Apple needs your location to tell you where your lost item is located. Enable the location service on your device, turn it on, and make sure you set Find My in your list of apps to While Using the App.
AirTags Can Track You
Although AirTags are designed to track your items, they can be used to track you and other people too.
AirTags Are Not Compatible with Android Devices
Presently, AirTags are only useful for Apple device users. Android users cannot make use of AirTag with their device.
You Can Remove AirTag from Your Apple ID
You are the only one that can remove your AirTag from your Apple ID. To remove the AirTag, open the Find My app, tap on Items and choose the AirTag from the list and tap “Remove Item.”
An AirTag that is still linked to your Apple ID cannot be used by someone else. That means if you lose your AirTag, the finder cannot make use of it.
