The Apple AirTag has captured attention for its ability to locate lost items using Bluetooth Low Energy, Ultra-Wideband, and the Find My network. But what is the actual Bluetooth range, and how does the physical environment impact performance? In this article, we explore the typical and maximum tracking distances of an AirTag. We also explain how connection issues, Apple device proximity, and environmental conditions can affect its overall reliability.
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The AirTag's core functionality hinges on Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), which lets it communicate with nearby Apple devices, like iPhones, to send its location to the Find My app. BLE is energy efficient, supporting the AirTag’s long battery life and enabling features such as battery notification when power runs low.
However, Bluetooth's range is relatively short, typically around 50 meters (or 160 feet) in open spaces and less indoors. When the AirTag moves out of this range, it can no longer update its location directly, and the Find My app will display a last seen message. Users receive push notifications if the AirTag is detected by another device or if the battery needs changing. For users hoping to track an item over extended distances, this can be a significant drawback.
To address Bluetooth's limited range, the AirTag employs "Crowd GPS," a feature that enables detection by any nearby iOS device, forming a larger detection network. This network allows the AirTag to be tracked even if it is out of range of its owner's iPhone, provided there are other Apple users nearby. The effectiveness of Crowd GPS increases in urban areas, where there are more Apple devices.
Moreover, newer AirTag models include Ultra Wideband (UWB), a technology offering more precise short-range tracking compared to Bluetooth. UWB enables users to pinpoint objects with high accuracy, which is particularly useful in cluttered environments or indoors. This combination of UWB and Crowd GPS provides a comprehensive solution for locating items, even when they are far from their owner.
The performance of Crowd GPS and Ultra-Wideband tracking depends on environmental and technical variables. Areas with sparse Apple device presence or where older iPhone models are prevalent, such as rural regions, weaken Find My network coverage. Users may face connection issues or delays if no devices are nearby to relay data.
Likewise, Bluetooth signal can degrade indoors due to physical obstacles, reducing accuracy. Interference from other Bluetooth devices or signal congestion in dense urban environments can also affect connectivity.
18 questions you need to ask yourself before buying a GPS tracker for your loved ones!
The use of AirTags for pet tracking presents substantial challenges. The primary issue is Bluetooth's limited range. In a closed space, Bluetooth's effective range is only about 30 feet, making it insufficient for tracking pets that tend to wander far. An animal can quickly move beyond this range, making AirTag tracking unreliable, particularly in emergencies where every minute counts.
The second challenge arises from AirTag's reliance on Crowd GPS. This network's effectiveness hinges on the density of Apple devices nearby. In rural or less populated areas, where Apple devices are sparse, tracking can become ineffective. This inconsistency can be a major concern for pet owners living in or visiting rural areas.
Another significant concern is safety. Apple has advised against using AirTags for pet tracking due to potential health risks. Veterinarians have reported incidents of animals swallowing these devices, posing serious health hazards. The Wall Street Journal also reported on these concerns, highlighting the importance of choosing tracking devices specifically designed for pets.
In comparison, alternative pet trackers use GPS and cellular networks, offering broader coverage and accurate tracking without depending on nearby devices. These trackers provide a more reliable solution for pet tracking.
Weenect provides GPS trackers specifically designed for dogs and cats. These trackers use a combination of GPS and cellular networks to offer extensive coverage and precise location tracking, regardless of distance. This provides real-time tracking, which is crucial in case an animal goes missing or escapes.
Weenect trackers are weather-resistant, securely attachable to pet collars, and include features such as a remote-activated flashlight, sound alerts for training, and activity tracking. This helps pet owners monitor their pets' movements, behaviors, and overall well-being.
Weenect trackers also offer long battery life, can be recharged easily and provide battery level alerts. Unlike AirTags, which use a CR2032 battery that requires manual replacement.
Additionally, Weenect trackers offer virtual safety zones, and personalized alerts, creating a comprehensive solution for reliable pet tracking. This ensures pet owners can track their pets effectively and securely, regardless of the environment or situation.
In conclusion, while Apple's AirTag provides notable technological advancements for locating personal items, it shows significant limitations when used for pet tracking. Its short 30 feet range and dependence on nearby Apple devices present major drawbacks. In contrast, Weenect GPS trackers offer a more suitable alternative, ensuring accurate tracking and peace of mind for pet owners through technology designed specifically for animal tracking.
With Weenect trackers, pet owners can enjoy real-time tracking, no distance limits, and features tailored to animals, making it a reliable choice for pet tracking. This combination ensures that even if an animal goes missing, pet owners have the tools to track them effectively.
This article is part of a complete guide on the subject. Don't miss the other chapters.
18 questions you need to ask yourself before buying a GPS tracker
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