I’ve always been curious about how the AirTag works. I wanted to know how far I could track it, especially when I’m away from my iPhone. Is it really reliable? Can I use it for tracking my dog or my bags from miles away? These are the questions I had, and I figured I’m not alone in wondering.
In this guide, I’ll share my thoughts on AirTag’s range, what affects it, and how it compares to other trackers like Tile. Let’s break it down and see what’s possible when it comes to tracking with an AirTag.
Table of Contents
How Far Can I Track an AirTag?
I’ve often wondered how far I can track my AirTag, especially if I’m away from my phone. AirTag’s range is based on Bluetooth, but it relies on nearby Apple devices for long-range tracking. This means that it can track over great distances, but only if other Apple devices are within reach.
- AirTag itself has a Bluetooth range of about 100 meters (330 feet).
- For long-range tracking, AirTag connects to Apple’s “Find My” network, which uses devices around you.
- Can you track AirTag miles away? The short answer: only if there are enough Apple devices nearby to pick up its signal. Without them, you’ll only track it within the Bluetooth range.
Tracking becomes a challenge if you’re in a remote area without many Apple devices nearby. That limits the range.
AirTag Range in Kilometers
The range of an AirTag in kilometers depends on its Bluetooth connection and the number of nearby Apple devices. Typically, it’s about 100 meters or 0.1 km in open spaces. But this can shrink if there are obstacles like walls, buildings, or dense areas where fewer Apple devices are available.
- Bluetooth range: roughly 0.1 km
- Factors that affect the range: obstacles, device availability, environment
So, in most cases, expect it to work within a 0.1 km radius if no other Apple devices are around.
AirTag vs. Tile: Which One Offers a Better Range?
I’ve used both AirTag and Tile, and each has its own range limits. Tile, unlike AirTag, doesn’t rely on Apple’s network. It works through Bluetooth and the Tile network, but the range is typically shorter.
- Tile’s Bluetooth range: up to 60 meters (200 feet)
- AirTag’s Bluetooth range: up to 100 meters (330 feet)
- Both use networks for long-range tracking, but Tile’s network isn’t as large as Apple’s, meaning AirTag has a more extensive reach.
Tracking My Dog with AirTag
Using an AirTag to track my dog seemed like a great idea. But, the range can vary depending on where my dog goes. When I attach an AirTag to my dog’s collar, I can usually track them as long as they’re within Bluetooth range of my iPhone or nearby Apple devices.
- AirTag works well in open areas with lots of devices around.
- If my dog runs off into a remote area, the signal may drop.
- Real-world limitations: obstacles like trees, walls, and buildings can reduce the range.
- AirTag range dog: In the right conditions, I can track my dog from up to 100 meters.
However, if my dog’s out of Bluetooth range, I’ll need other Apple devices to pick up the signal. It’s not perfect for every situation.
What Affects the Range of AirTag?
AirTag’s range depends on a few factors. First, it’s impacted by the environment around it. Obstacles like walls, buildings, or crowded places can reduce the Bluetooth signal. Also, the availability of nearby Apple devices is key. The more devices, the better the tracking.
- Proximity to devices: The closer Apple devices are, the further AirTag can be tracked.
- Obstacles and interference: These can weaken the Bluetooth signal and reduce range.
- Find My network: AirTag relies on Apple’s vast network to extend its range, especially in urban areas.
In rural places, the range is often limited without as many Apple devices nearby.
Can I Use AirTag with Android Devices?
I’ve wondered if AirTag would work with my Android phone. Unfortunately, it’s not fully compatible with Android. While an Android phone can detect an AirTag if it’s lost, it can’t track it like an iPhone can.
- Can you use AirTag for Android? No, AirTag doesn’t work like a full-fledged tracker on Android.
- You can still scan an AirTag’s NFC chip using your Android, but tracking is limited.
So, AirTag is best suited for iPhone users, but Android users can still use it in some scenarios.
AirTag Pricing and Where to Buy
I’ve checked the price of AirTag recently. It’s relatively affordable compared to other tracking devices, like GPS trackers.
- The price for a single AirTag is about $29.
- You can buy AirTag directly from Apple or other retailers like Amazon.
- If you’re looking to buy more than one, Apple offers bundles, making it cheaper per unit.
- AirTag price: It’s a budget-friendly option compared to many GPS trackers, which can cost over $50.
I’ve found it’s worth the price if you want a simple, reliable tracker for your belongings.