How Far Can I Track an AirTag? Let’s Find Out Together!

I’ve been curious about how far I can track an AirTag. At first, I thought it would be a simple Bluetooth tracker. But then I learned that there’s more to it. AirTags work with Apple’s Find My network, which means their range isn’t just limited to Bluetooth.

But how far can it really go? How does it work when you’re miles away from the device? I wanted to get to the bottom of it and find out just how far I can track my AirTag, whether it’s in the next room or across the country. Let’s break it down.

Can I Track an AirTag from Miles Away?

I’ve often wondered how far I can track my AirTag. It’s not just about Bluetooth. There’s more to it than that.

• AirTags communicate with nearby devices using Bluetooth.
• When your AirTag is in range of an iPhone or iPad, it can send its location.
• Apple’s Find My network helps extend this range. If there’s an Apple device nearby, it can help find your AirTag, even if it’s miles away.
• The range is limited by Bluetooth, usually around 30 feet. But with the network, it can reach much farther, depending on the device’s location.
• It’s not always a direct connection. AirTags rely on Apple devices in the network to track their location.

The distance really depends on the availability of nearby Apple devices. If there’s no device nearby, it’s limited to the Bluetooth range.

How Does an AirTag Work Over Long Distances?

I’ve always wondered how AirTags work over long distances. It’s different from GPS tracking. Here’s what I’ve learned.

• AirTags use Bluetooth to connect to nearby iPhones.
• Once connected, the iPhone communicates the AirTag’s location to iCloud.
• The location is then updated in the Find My app.
• The process isn’t instant. It depends on when the AirTag connects to a device in the network.
• AirTags don’t use GPS. Instead, they rely on Apple’s network of devices to track their location.
• Location updates happen when there’s a connection to an Apple device. This can take some time if no devices are nearby.

So, it’s not about GPS. It’s all about the network of Apple devices around you.

How Often Does AirTag Update Its Location?

I’ve noticed that my AirTag doesn’t update its location all the time. Here’s why.

• AirTags update their location when they connect to an Apple device.
• It’s not live tracking. Updates happen when the AirTag is in range of a device.
• The frequency of updates depends on device movement and network availability.
• If no device is nearby, the location won’t update until it’s connected again.

So, it’s more about when it connects than constant tracking.

AirTag Range vs Tile: Which Is Better for Tracking?

I’ve used both AirTag and Tile, so I know there’s a big difference in range.

• Tile works within Bluetooth range, usually up to 200 feet, depending on the model.
• AirTag, on the other hand, uses Bluetooth too but can extend its range through Apple’s Find My network. This makes AirTag more effective over long distances.
• Tile’s range is limited to the Bluetooth connection, whereas AirTag can be tracked almost anywhere an Apple device is nearby.
• Pros of AirTag: Longer range due to the Find My network, broader tracking potential.
• Cons of AirTag: Relies on Apple devices being in range.
• Pros of Tile: Reliable within Bluetooth range, works for non-Apple users.
• Cons of Tile: Limited range and fewer tracking capabilities compared to AirTag.

AirTag offers more flexibility, but Tile is good for close-range tracking.

Can You Track an AirTag Anywhere?

I’ve wondered if I could track an AirTag anywhere, even globally. Here’s what I found.

• AirTags can be tracked wherever there are nearby Apple devices in the Find My network.
• It’s not technically “anywhere,” but as long as there’s an Apple device nearby, your AirTag can be tracked.
• The Find My network is key. Without it, tracking is limited to Bluetooth range.

So, it’s all about the network. The more Apple devices nearby, the better the tracking.

AirTag for Pet Tracking: Can It Work for My Dog?

I’ve thought about using AirTags for tracking pets like my dog. But here’s the thing.

• AirTags aren’t designed for pet tracking.
• They rely on Bluetooth and nearby Apple devices to update location.
• This means their range is limited, and they aren’t great for tracking pets over long distances.
• AirTags don’t have GPS, so it’s not ideal for pet tracking in remote areas.

If you need long-range pet tracking, a GPS collar would be a better option.