how far can apple airtags track
Apple AirTags are small Bluetooth tracking devices that can be used to locate lost or misplaced items. The tracking range of an AirTag depends on several factors, including:
- Bluetooth signal strength: AirTags use Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) technology to communicate with nearby Apple devices. The signal strength of the AirTag’s Bluetooth signal determines how far it can be detected. Apple claims that AirTags can be detected up to 30 feet (9 meters) away, but this range can vary depending on the environment and the presence of obstacles.
- Apple device network: AirTags rely on the Apple device network to report their location. When an AirTag is in range of an Apple device (such as an iPhone or iPad), it can send its location to the device, which then reports it to the owner’s Apple ID account. This means that the tracking range of an AirTag is effectively extended to the range of the Apple device network, which is global.
- Cellular connectivity: If an AirTag is in range of an Apple device with cellular connectivity (such as an iPhone), it can report its location to the owner’s Apple ID account even if the device is not connected to Wi-Fi.
In practice, the tracking range of an AirTag can be summarized as follows:
- Local tracking: Up to 30 feet (9 meters) away, using Bluetooth signal strength.
- Extended tracking: Up to several miles (kilometers) away, using the Apple device network.
- Global tracking: Worldwide, using the Apple device network and cellular connectivity.
It’s worth noting that AirTags are designed to be used for tracking personal items, such as keys, wallets, or luggage, and are not intended for tracking people or pets. Additionally, AirTags have built-in security features to prevent unauthorized tracking, such as rotating Bluetooth identifiers and encryption.
