As part of our AirTags FAQ series, we’re answering common questions on how to use AirTags ($99 / 4-pack @ Amazon) and how they’ll work. Following AirTag’s recent launch, readers have been writing in every day to ask about the useful range on AirTags – how far away can you and your iPhone be from your AirTag and still be able to find them?
Editor’s Note: Check out the results of our AirTags Range Ultimate Challenge – Tracking an AirTag from 3,500 miles away
As another real-world example, let’s say you rode your bike to the beach, and after a long day of playing in the waves and having lunch in the sun, you cannot remember where you parked. Luckily, you installed an Apple AirTag on your bicycle… how do you find your missing item with AirTags and how far away can you be from your AirTags and still have them work?
Bluetooth-based trackers, like the Tile Pro (see our Apple AirTags vs. Tile Trackers Comparison) or Samsung Galaxy SmartTag (see our Samsung SmartTags vs. Apple AirTags Review), have a maximum range of 300 feet or 100 meters. Apple’s AirTag matches this in basic bluetooth range, plus AirTags have an effectively unlimited range due to Apple’s global Find My network of iOS devices.
Does that mean you need to walk or drive around with your iPhone in your hand until you are within 300 feet / 100 meters of your lost bicycle with AirTags in order to find it? Nope. The best part about finding something with an AirTag is that it uses the network of Apple products and users to help you find your lost item (the so-called “Find My network”)… so you really just need anyone with an iPhone to be within 300 feet or 100 meters of your lost bike and you’ll be able to find it. With already nearly a billion Apple devices in the Find My network worldwide, someone will walk by your bike soon and you’ll find your AirTags-tracked device quickly!
Plus AirTags using the U1 chip can locate missing items within 30cm of accuracy! Your sunburned-self will be back on your bike in no time.
Looking for the Best AirTag Cases and AirTags Accessories? Check out our recent article on where to buy AirTags and AirTag Accessories
