AirTags iPhone Compatibility

AirTags can help locate your misplaced items. You can use them to find your handbag, keys, phone, and more. Even though the device is meant to make life easier, it only works when connected to specific devices.

This article covers everything you need to know about AirTags compatibility.

What Are AirTags?

AirTags are simple gadgets that you can use to find your misplaced items. The gadget functions by using a tracking application. However, they were actually designed to be used in tracking people’s movements.

The gadget operates using a Bluetooth transmitter and an Apple UI chip. The gadget is powered by a special disposable battery known as CR2032 that’s good for about one year.

Powering the gadget for a longer period makes it a reliable option for users to utilize in their day-to-day activities. AirTags are also easy to operate since they don’t involve technical elements that you need to learn and master.

AirTags can also help you to find stolen items. They can be engraved with letters or the image of your choice.

Utilizing ultra-wideband technology, they take advantage of the existing Apple network. As such, they operate as crowdsourced beacons that ping each other to help you locate your misplaced items.

How AirTags Work

AirTags uses the “Find My” Apple application available on iPhones. The application can locate other gadgets, even those outside the Apple ecosystem. It uses the Apple network to issue communication signals in a secure manner.

When you misplace an AirTagged item, you can use the app to find it. Also, you can trigger the gadget to make a notification. However, this doesn’t just work any old how. You need to have a powerful device to support this communication.

The AirTags only work with devices that have iOS 14.5. Users with iPhones older than the iPhone 6s can’t use this gadget. Also, those who haven’t updated their devices to iOS 14 can’t use AirTags.

Apart from the simple Bluetooth chirping, the gadget also has a feature known as Precision Finding. This feature points you in the right direction of the item you’re searching for, aided by haptic and augmented reality technology. However, Precision Finding only operates on devices with Apple’s U1 chip.

The Apple’s U1 Chip

Apple’s U1 chip is a tiny radio transmitter using Ultrawide Band radio waves to identify the location of devices. Given that Bluetooth-based proximity detection only locates nearby items, the U1 chip is a more powerful feature.

The chip can identify the exact location by calculating the time the radio waves take to bounce from different devices at an extremely high speed. The U1 chip operates as a radar that can send signals and determine the availability of similar chips.

To use the Precision Finding feature, you need to have an iPhone 11 or 12. Remember that the feature offers guidance using your phone screen, especially when giving directions. Also, it uses the camera, accelerator, ARKit, and many others.

The application thrives to give you a directionally aware finding experience. This makes it easier for you to access your misplaced items easily.

When looking for a more advanced approach to locating your lost items, going for devices supporting the Apple U1 comes with added advantages. However, ensure that your device can support the strength of this application.

There are several devices that have Apple’s U1 Chip and still don’t support Precision Finding features. Identifying these devices will save you when looking for options within the market. Here are two examples:

• Apple Watch Ultra
• Homepod Mini

On the flip side, new iPhones on the market (iPhone X) don’t have the U1 Chip. These devices only offer basic tracking capabilities since they don’t work with the “Find My” application feature.

Here are some other devices that don’t have Apple’s U1 Chip:

• iPhone XS Max
• Airpods Max
• iPhone XR
• Apple Watch Series 5 and older
• iPhone X and older

Setting Up the Apple AirTags

Setting up the Apple AirTags isn’t as difficult as most people think. Here’s what you need to do:

1. Pull out the tab to activate the AirTag.
   
2. Hold the gadget near your compatible device.
   
3. The device will detect the tracker and send you a prompt to set it up, just like EarPods.
   
4. After the device takes charge of the tracking, you can rename your AirTag.

The AirTag is registered using your Apple ID. At this point, you’re all set to use the gadget.

FAQs

How can I find my lost AirTag?

AirTags don’t have a GPS like an iPhone. This is why Apple uses the U1 chip, which has an ultra-wideband technology that creates a one-on-one connection with all Apple devices around the globe. This helps to locate the exact location of your AirTag.

Can I see the devices near my AirTag?

AirTags only uses the devices connected to Apple’s network to identify misplaced devices. However, no location data history is stored physically in the gadget.

Do AirTags use my location?

Yes, AirTags need access to your location to operate smoothly. You won’t use the gadget if you turn off location services on your Apple device. Note that Apple needs to access your location to find your misplaced item.

Is the AirTag battery rechargeable?

No. The AirTag battery lasts for about one year before it needs to be replaced. However, the battery isn’t an Apple-specific proprietary purchase. The gadget uses the CR2032 battery, which you can purchase online or in a brick-and-mortar store.

Can I remove the AirTag from my Apple ID?

Given that the AirTag is registered using your Apple ID during setup, you’re the only person who can remove it. You can do so by opening the Find My App, clicking on the items tab, and selecting AirTag. Tap on the remove button and allow it to be used by everybody else.

Are AirTags compatible with Android devices?

No. An Android user can’t register an AirTag using their device. However, the NFC functionality available in Androids allows Android users to connect to the lost AirTags and help access them.

Taking Everything Into Account

AirTags play a crucial role in helping you find lost or misplaced items. Making AirTags part of your daily life elevates the safety of your belongings. Furthermore, the convenient size of the gadget makes it easier for you to attach it to anything. Having a powerful iPhone that supports its features is everything you need.

Have you ever used an AirTag to keep track of your items? If so, did you use any of the tips or tricks featured in this article? Let us know in the comments section below.