AirTag, but some may be wondering if its advanced features come with a price tag? AirTag uses three different communication technologies and Apple's special Find My network, which sounds very impressive, but an examination of its value and compatibility compared to other trackers will help shoppers decide if it is worth the expense.
The Bluetooth beacon market has existed for many years, with Tile being among the most recognizable names involved. There are a large number of competing products, but Apple didn't make such a device until it introduced the AirTag in April of 2021. Apple participated in the retail market by developing a location tracking protocol in 2013 called iBeacon, which was meant to work in reverse of consumer trackers. iBeacon hardware is meant to be placed in retail stores to identify when an iPhone or Android phone with a compatible app is nearby in order to send notifications to shoppers. This could include directions, sale information, and special offers. iBeacon is still available and in use at some major retailers.
The adds ultra-wideband (UWB) capability as well. This last technology is one of the most unique features of Apple's new device, offering directional guidance instead of requiring the to home in on a sound.
Is The AirTag The Best Purchase?
Using AirTag's UWB communication technology along with an item is on a different level to them. As the approaches the AirTag, the range and heading are updated in real-time on the screen. At any point, there is an option to play a sound on the AirTag to find it even if it's covered up. Since the range can be narrowed to as close as 1.2 inches, locating lost items is quick and easy. For anyone that owns an iPhone with a U1 chip, the UWB capability makes the AirTag a great value and a near-automatic purchase.
Since the AirTag pricing is good and its technology is the best on the market, the only other concern is compatibility. While most recent iPhone and iPad models are compatible with the Bluetooth functionality, only the iPhone 11 and iPhone 12 can take advantage of the Precision Finding feature that UWB allows. much larger network when searching for an item that is outside of Bluetooth range. This might help eliminate backtracking over every place visited in a day, so it's worth considering an AirTag given its competitive pricing, even when using a less compatible Apple device.
Source: Apple