Apple Officially Unveils Tile-like AirTag Tracking Device; Priced at $29

Apr. 21, 2021

Putting an end to the endless stream of rumors and leaks, Apple hasofficially unveiledits Tile-like tracking device AirTag during the ‘Spring Loaded’ event today. It is a tiny circular device that lets you track items, such as wallets, keys, bags, and more, via the ‘Find My’ app, when iOS 14.5 rolls out later this week.

Apple AirTag: Specs and Features

In addition, the AirTag includes a built-in speaker, accelerometer, U1 tracking chip, and Bluetooth LE support. The U1 chip usesUltra Wideband technologyand willenable you to see the precise location of your itemsin the Find My app. The tag can make sound via the built-in speaker when it is in Bluetooth range. This is coupled with haptic feedback and visual cues to make it easier to locate items.

“Users can also ask Siri to find their item, and AirTag will play a sound if it is nearby,”as per the blog post. The Precision Finding is only available for the iPhone 11 and iPhone 12 series, which have the U1 chip onboard.

The AirTag setup process is super simple. Just like AirPods, you simply need to bring the tracker close to your iPhone for an instant connection. You can set custom names for all items in the Find My app and get a free custom engraving, such as text or emoji, on the tracker.

Further, the Apple AirTag supports accessibility features, such as VoiceOver, built into iOS 14 to help visually impaired users locate items. The company also ensures your privacy. It does not store any location data or location history, along with features thatdiscourage unwanted trackingand the Find My network is end-to-end encrypted.

You will be able tobuy an Apple AirTag for $29 each. If you plan on tracking the location of more stuff, you can buy the $99 four-pack of AirTags in the US. Apple will compete against the likes of Tile and therecently launchedSamsung SmartTag.

The Apple AirTag will be up for pre-order on 23rd April (i.e on Friday) and available to buy from 30th April via the Apple Store and offline stores.