Apple AirTags do not have built-in GPS technology. Instead, they rely on the Find My Network, which utilizes Bluetooth signals, to locate and track your belongings. This means that AirTags make use of nearby Apple devices, such as iPhones, to help locate lost items.
When you attach an AirTag to an item, it emits a Bluetooth signal that nearby Apple devices can pick up on. These devices then relay the location data of the AirTag back to Apple’s iCloud. You can access this information by logging into your iCloud account on the Find My app. The app will show you the last known location of your AirTag and can help you navigate to its whereabouts.
It’s important to note that the Find My Network relies on the proximity of Apple devices to accurately track the location of your AirTag. This means that if your AirTag is out of range of any nearby Apple devices, its location data may not be updated in real-time. However, if another Apple device comes into range of your AirTag, it will update its location data on the Find My app.
To enhance the accuracy and range of tracking, Apple has implemented a feature called Precision Finding. This feature utilizes the U1 chip found in newer iPhones to provide more precise location information. By using Ultra-Wideband technology, Precision Finding can guide you to the exact location of your AirTag by providing visual and haptic feedback on your iPhone.
In terms of privacy, Apple has taken measures to ensure that the Find My Network is secure and respects user privacy. AirTags have built-in privacy features, such as rotating Bluetooth identifiers, that help prevent unwanted tracking. Additionally, if an AirTag is found to be traveling with you for an extended period of time, your iPhone will alert you to its presence, ensuring that you are aware of any potential tracking attempts.
While Apple AirTags do not have GPS technology, they utilize the Find My Network and Bluetooth signals to track and locate your belongings. The Find My app on your Apple devices provides the necessary tools to view the location data of your AirTag. With features like Precision Finding and privacy measures in place, AirTags offer a convenient and secure way to keep track of your items.