What are AirTags? – Apple’s Spring Loaded event recap
Image Credit: Apple
What are AirTags? Apple’s new Bluetooth trackers explained after they were revealed on stage yesterday.
Apple took to the virtual stage yesterday to announce their redesigned iMac, all-new AirTags, and changes to the iPad Pro, Apple TV 4K and iPhone 12. Find the full stream from Apple here.
AirTag
Apple’s Bluetooth trackers have been rumoured for what feels like forever. Attach them to your keys or place them in a bag so you can easily locate your items when lost.
AirTag’s location can be viewed in the Find My app. When your items are within Bluetooth range, you can trigger a sound on the built-in speaker from your iPhone or say “Hey Siri, find my wallet.” Precision Finding will provide the distance and direction to your AirTag, using Ultra Wideband technology on the iPhone 11s, 11 Pros, 12s and 12 Pros. For items out of Bluetooth range, use Lost Mode and nearby and passing iPhones will ping the location to you. Apple have of course placed a heavy focus on privacy and all data is anonymous and encrypted.
Setup with AirTags is a one-tap process and they’ll last for more than a year on one battery. The CR2032 coin cell battery is user replaceable. AirTags are IP67 water-resistant, which can withstand a maximum depth of 1 meter, for up to 30 minutes. The white plastic can be laser engraved, to personalize your AirTag with initials and emojis at no extra cost.
AirTags cost $29 per tag and $99 for a 4 pack. This price is about on par with Tile’s Bluetooth trackers, but you’ll have to pay extra if you need to attach it to something like keys. Accessories such as key rings, loops, tags and straps can be found here from Apple, Hermès and Belkin from $12.95. Pre-orders for AirTags start on April 23, with availability on April 30.
