It is already known that Apple is working on a Tile-like tracker called AirTag. Now Apple has accidentally confirmed the arrival of the Bluetooth tracker itself. In a video that the tech giant has uploaded to its YouTube channel, the AirTags have already been featured in the Settings app.
Apple AirTag tracker
The AirTags surfaced in a support video (see a screenshot above) explaining how to erase an iPhone. Under the option “Enable Offline Finding” reference is made to the not yet announced AirTags. After fifteen minutes, Apple has already taken the video offline again.
Interestingly, the text explains that Apple tracker can be found even if you don’t have an internet connection. This is possible thanks to the UWB technology of the iPhone 11 (Pro), which allows the device to accurately locate an object.
Thanks to concrete rumors and leaked screenshots, a lot was already known about the AirTag. You can attach the Bluetooth tracker to items that you lose quickly, such as your key ring or wallet. You can then trace those objects on a map in the Find My app.
Smart features
And of course, Apple is adding some smart features to it, a previous leak revealed. For example, you can set to receive a notification when you are far away from an object. For example, you do not forget to take your bag with you when you go home.
You can also make the AirTag play a loud sound, so you hear where the lost object should be. Is the object still untraceable? Then you turn on lost mode. If another iPhone user encounters the item, they will be able to call or text the owner.
They are extra handy with the iPhone 11 and iPhone 11 Pro, which have an Ultra WideBand (UWB) for accurate location determination. You not only see that lost items are somewhere in the living room, but also exactly under which pillow on the couch. Apple previously called it “GPS, but on a living room scale.” With older models it probably works, but only via Bluetooth. This is less accurate.
Release
The arrival of the AirTag probably will not take long. According to rumors, it will be released this spring, possibly after WWDC 2020. That is in June.