How Far Can You Track an AirTag?

AirTag is a tracking device that helps you find your items, no matter where they are. People now prefer it, but many question its ability to track objects.

In this article, we will discuss its limit and explain how far you can track an AirTag. We will explain how it works and where you can use it for reliable tracking.

How Does AirTag Work?

An AirTag is a small device that connects to your mobile device via Bluetooth. Within its specific range, it connects directly with your mobile and shows its location. Some updated versions use the Precision Finding feature to help you track your AirTag using arrows and a map.

If an AirTag moves out of its Bluetooth range, it starts connecting to other nearby Apple devices/ mobiles to update its location in the Find My App. You can also turn on Lost Mode, so if anyone finds your AirTag, they will contact you directly. Which is why an AirTag can be used to find lost or misplaced things through location tracking.

How Far Can You Track an AirTag?

An AirTag can be tracked within 30 feet indoors and 10 feet outdoors via Bluetooth. If your AirTag is within this range, it will be directly connected to your device and show its exact location. It works best when there is no signal-blocking or interference, such as from walls, metal objects, bags, or heavy coverings.

Beyond this distance, there is no defined range. As long as there is an Apple device nearby, the AirTag will update its location. It will automatically connect to any nearby device within its range. This allows you to track your AirTag far beyond its actual range.

How to Use AirTag?

Step 1: Prepare your iPhone & AirTag

Take your iPhone and make sure to sign in to your Apple ID. Turn ON the Wi-Fi/ Mobile Data, Location Services, and Bluetooth on your mobile. Unwrap the AirTag, and it will automatically be turned ON by producing a small sound.

Step 2: Connect AirTag with Your iPhone

Hold the AirTag near your iPhone. A setup pop-up will appear on your mobile screen within a few seconds. Tap the Connect option on your screen, then pair the AirTag with your iPhone.

Step 3: Set The Name for Your AirTag

Once paired, set the name like Keychain, Backpack, or Suitcase for your AirTag. This helps you identify the item the AirTag is attached to. After this, the AirTag will securely link with your Apple ID.

Step 4: Use the Find My App

After setting up, open the Find My App, and you will see your AirTag under the Items tab. On the map, you can check your AirTag’s last or current location to find any misplaced items.

Step 5: Other Smart Options

You can use the Play Sound option to make your AirTag beep. This helps you find the misplaced items if they are nearby. The Precision Finding option will help you find your AirTag with distance guides and arrows. You can turn the Lost Mode ON and add your iPhone number, so anyone can contact you if they find your item.

What Factors Affect the Range of an AirTag?

Bluetooth Signal Strength: AirTag works through a Bluetooth connection, which works effectively within a range. If the AirTag moves out of that specific range, it may stop showing its location and stop working properly. Usually, the range is between 30 feet and 10 meters for different devices and models.

Few Nearby Apple Devices: You can track your AirTag through Find My APP, which works with all the nearby available devices to update the location of your AirTag. If there are many iPhones near your AirTag, it would be easy for AirTag to update its location on the application using other iPhones. If there are a few iPhones around, the efficiency of location detection will drop.

AirTag Battery Level: AirTag works better with a good battery level. If your AirTag’s battery is low or dying, its signal strength will reduce. So, replacing AirTag’s battery on time will ensure effective and reliable tracking with no signal loss.

iPhone Model and Compatibility: The performance of your AirTag also depends on your iPhone model. New iPhone models have the Precision Finding features and better Bluetooth functionality. If your iPhone or iOS is outdated, it will affect the range or efficiency of your AirTag.

Environmental Interference: Other electronic devices around the AirTag also affect its range. Electronic devices like Big machines, Wi-Fi routers, or TVs can cause signal interference between the mobile device and the AirTag. They cause signal interference and make the AirTag’s signals confused or weak.

Signal Reflection: If your AirTag is kept inside a metal box, a thick wallet, or at the bottom of a deep bag, it would be hard for the signal to reach your iPhone or Apple device. So keep your AirTag easy to reach, or open places to make tracking faster and easier.

FAQs

How Far Can an AirTag Track a Car?

An AirTag can directly track your car within 30 feet indoors and 100 feet outdoors because it works with Bluetooth. If your car is far from your Apple device but is within range of other Apple devices, you can get its exact location on the Find My App network.

Can You Track AirTag Miles Away?

Yes, AirTag can be tracked from miles away, but not directly. It will use the other nearby Apple devices to update its location anonymously through the Find My App network.

Does the AirTag have a GPS?

No, AirTag does not come with built-in GPS. The AirTag range depends on the Bluetooth connection and the Find My App network, which are affected by the availability of other Apple devices near your AirTag.

Conclusion

AirTag is a helpful device for finding everyday misplaced items, but it has certain limitations. It can be connected to your device via Bluetooth if it is within range. Otherwise, it will rely on nearby Apple devices to update its location. Thus, it is an excellent tracking device, but it needs to have Apple devices nearby to work.