Apple today unveiled its long-awaited AirTag tracker at its “Spring Loaded” event. The tracker is an iPhone accessory that helps users to keep track of items such as keys, handbags and backpacks by working with Apple’s “Find My” app on iOS.
Apple says the AirTag is built with privacy in mind which means it does not store location data with the connection being an end-to-end encryption. The small circular tracker with a stainless steel has built-in speaker which plays sound to help owners locate whichever item it is attached with. It is water and dust resistant and uses a battery which can be replaced easily by opening the back cover. Apple expects the battery to last for a year.
Apple is offering free engraving to customers who purchase on apple.com and is marketing the AirTag with a range of accessories such as the polyurethane loop, leather loop and leather key ring so users can easily attach them to their valuable items.
The pairing of the AirTag works similar to the way the AirPods are paird with the iPhone. Once paired, the AirTag will appear under a new Items tab in the “Find My” app. This way, they can easily locate their item and also play a sound from the tracker via the “Find My” app. The tracker is designed with Apple’s U1 chip which uses Ultra Wideband technology to provide what Apple calls “Precision Finding” on the iPhone 11 and iPhone 12.
Pre-order opens this Friday at 5AM PT / 8AM ET but the product will be available on April 30th. The AirTag will cost $29 but can be purchased in cheaper four packs for $99.
