Top Underrated AirTag Functions You Should Know
With Apple's AirTags debut, I initially thought these devices would be pointless once the novelty fades. However, after a year's use, I've discovered some kick-ass covert features that make AirTags a must-have, even for non-lost-item enthusiasts. Let's dive into the hidden gems of your Apple AirTags.
Nickname Your AirTags (Listen Up, Champ!)
Giving your AirTags a clever name may seem elementary, but it's crucial for effortless identification. Ditch the generic "Pranay's AirTag #1" and opt for a descriptive name such as "Pranay's Navy Backpack." To make this change, head to the Find My app on your iPhone, and navigate to Items > AirTag > Rename Item. After picking names that are specific and easy to say, you can explore the next perk.
Quick AirTag Location with Siri (Speedy Search)
When you misplace a tagged item, asking Siri to locate it is the fastest way to find it. Use a vocal command like, "Hey Siri, locate my keys," or "Hey Siri, find my wallet," and Siri will swiftly spot the item, allowing you to locate it swiftly. This method is far quicker than trekking to the Find My app on your iPhone and navigating through Items > AirTags > Play Sound.
Share Your AirTag's Location (Buddy System)
If you trust your pals to watch your back, consider sharing your AirTag's location with them. This feature can be beneficial for those who work late shifts or have lengthy commutes, ensuring loved ones know your whereabouts in case of an emergency. As long as the AirTag is in your vehicle or attached to an item you always carry (house keys, phone, etc.), this feature performs like a charm. Enable it by opening the Find My app on your iPhone and going to Items > AirTags > Share AirTag > Add Person.
AirTag in Lost Mode (Don't Panic!)
Your AirTags have two handy features to help others locate lost items. One allows you to share contact info with anyone who discovers your lost AirTag, while the other lets you share your AirTag's location with trusted individuals, such as airline employees trying to locate your baggage. Activate these settings by going to the Find My app on your iPhone and navigating to Items > AirTag > Lost AirTag. Tap Show Contact Info or Share Item Location and follow the on-screen instructions.
Identifying Lost AirTags (Found You!)
Should you stumble upon someone else's AirTags, you can use your iPhone to identify the owner and reunite the lost tag with its rightful owner. If the owner has added their contact details to their AirTags (as previously mentioned), finding the lost tag is a breeze via the Find My app on your iPhone. Navigate to the Items tab and select Identify Found Item. Follow the on-screen prompts to pinpoint the lost AirTag and hopefully reunite it with its owner.
Turn Off False Alarms (Escape the Pin)
If your AirTags incorrectly identify your home location, you'll be plagued with annoying "This item is left behind" notices whenever you leave. I accidentally had my AirTags register my friend's house as my home base during a month-long stay, and when I returned to my own place, my AirTags kept alerting me about supposed "left behind" items. To eliminate these intrusive alerts, visit Find My > Items > AirTags > Notify When Left Behind. Tap New Location and mark your home as an exception.
Check Your AirTag's Battery (No Drama, Ma'am)
Though the AirTag's battery life should last a year, there's no way to determine the current battery level. If the battery is nearly drained, your iPhone will send you a notification. You can also check the AirTag in the Find My app, which will display a low battery indication if a replacement is needed.
Find Your AirTag (Peace of Mind)
The most popular use for AirTags is tracking missing items. Head to the Find My app and open the Items tab. Tap the name of your AirTag and select Find. After a brief delay, the iPhone will guide you to your AirTag.
AirTag Serial Number Lookup (Code of the AirTag)
Keep track of your AirTag's serial number and the firmware version in your iPhone's Find My app. To access this data, navigate to the Items tab in the app, select your AirTag, and tap the name of the AirTag. You'll now see its serial number and firmware version. This information can be helpful if your AirTags are under warranty or to see if the latest software features are accessible for them.
Creative Uses for AirTags (Think Outside the Box)
While you'd expect AirTags to be perfect for finding lost luggage, keys, or other objects you misplace frequently, there's a world of possibilities beyond these items. My personal favorite is tracking pets, especially for cat owners who have finicky felines that roam outside. If your furry friend goes missing, equipping them with an AirTag on a harness could spare you a world of worry. Users on Reddit have shared creative AirTag applications, including training dogs to return home when you play a sound on an AirTag connected to their collar, using it to track individuals with dementia who tend to get lost, and even tracking a child's backpack. Keep in mind that AirTags should never be used for stalking purposes, but they can help keep tabs on loved ones who need extra care.
- Beyond their traditional use, AirTags can be utilized creatively, such as tracking pets, especially for cats that frequently roam outside.
- To find the serial number and firmware version of your AirTag, open the Find My app on your iPhone, select your AirTag, and tap its name.
- If you've accidentally registered someone else's house as your home base, visit Find My > Items > AirTags > Notify When Left Behind on your iPhone, then tap New Location and mark your home as an exception.
