Chapter 1: The Anticipation of AirTags

For months, speculation surrounded Apple's AirTags—were they on the way, or had Apple abandoned the idea? The uncertainty continued until the Spring Loaded event in April, where AirTags finally made their debut, and they closely resembled the rumored designs.

The issue with Apple speculation can often lead to confusion.

I placed my order for AirTags, but I've been both intrigued and frustrated as the delivery date has been pushed back a few weeks. Initially expected on April 30, it now seems they might arrive as late as May 18. Whether this delay is due to lingering COVID-related distribution challenges or an overwhelming demand for these tiny trackers remains uncertain. Regardless, I look forward to sharing my insights upon their arrival. However, I first want to acknowledge what stands out as one of Apple’s most thoughtful announcements of 2021 thus far.

A Concise Launch

If you anticipated a lengthy presentation for AirTags during the Spring Loaded event, you would have been disappointed. The segment lasted barely ten minutes. I'm not a fan of extended product reveals, which is why I appreciate Apple’s pre-recorded, online events; they compel the team to focus on the essentials without unnecessary interruptions or lengthy demonstrations by apprehensive executives.

The AirTags announcement was exemplary in this regard. In that brief window, we learned about their practical applications, key advantages, and Apple’s commitment to privacy. There was no need for further details; the presentation was straightforward, understated, and highlighted the endless speculation surrounding what is essentially a supplementary product for Apple.

More of this approach, please.

My Plans for AirTags

With four AirTags on the way, I find myself contemplating their best uses. As others have noted, much of our belongings are already trackable or have been streamlined digitally. Personally, I seldom carry cash thanks to Apple Pay, and I've never misplaced my car keys.

My belongings are limited, so the AirTags tagline, "Lose your knack for losing things," feels somewhat misplaced. I don’t typically misplace items, which presents a challenge for AirTags. They are not designed as anti-theft devices; thus, if you’re hoping they will provide peace of mind for securing your bike, you might be misunderstanding their purpose.

Apple envisions AirTags being attached to items you might misplace. With that in mind, I’ve devised a list of potential uses:

1. My keys (the obvious choice)
2. My wallet (which I once thought I'd lost after a night out, only to discover it had survived several cycles in the washing machine)
3. My backpack (though I've never lost it, having a way to quickly locate it is appealing)
4. My dog (who sometimes vanishes in the house, and I'd like to track his whereabouts)

Am I being overly optimistic? Perhaps. The first two uses feel like standard applications for AirTags, while the latter two are mere possibilities. Some may argue that AirTags are not intended for pets, but I see no reason not to attach one to my dog’s collar. In the improbable event he goes missing, I’d have a better chance of finding him.

Plus, think of how stylish he would look with an AirTag!

Privacy Considerations

Prior to the release, I had concerns about privacy, but I trusted Apple not to introduce a product that could facilitate unlawful tracking or surveillance.

#### The Power of the Find My Network

One of AirTag's most remarkable features is its reliance on the vast network of Apple devices worldwide. Devices equipped with the appropriate chipset contribute to what is known as the Find My Network. This intelligent and powerful concept allows an AirTag to communicate with any nearby iPhone, iPad, or Mac to relay its approximate location to you.

No personal information is exchanged during this process, ensuring your identity and location remain confidential. Moreover, the owners of the devices that assist in locating the lost AirTag are unaware of their involvement—this is crucial for maintaining privacy.

Despite criticisms of Apple's ecosystem and its tendency to drain your wallet, this is genuinely innovative technology that provides a real benefit. AirTags exemplify the culmination of efforts invested in the Find My Network.

Apple has emphasized that they have no interest in tracking you or your AirTags, a point made clear throughout their marketing. They appear to have considered every security aspect. For instance, if an AirTag that isn’t yours is found in your bag, your iPhone will notify you. If you're unable to locate it, the AirTag will emit a sound to assist you.

Additionally, AirTags can be scanned by both iPhones and Android devices to identify their owner. How’s that for cross-platform functionality?

Notable Omissions

Apple often surprises us. Just when you think they have perfected a product, they seem to overlook a couple of glaring features.

In the case of AirTags, two notable omissions stand out (and I’m not referring to the lack of a built-in keyring hole, which was never going to happen).

First, there’s no option to set up AirTags from a Mac. What if you own only that Apple device and wish to utilize these handy trackers? While it’s somewhat understandable that AirTags are currently restricted to iOS/iPadOS, the Find My app is available on the Mac, which could alienate many Apple users.

The second omission pertains to the technology that powers AirTags. Why hasn't Apple integrated the AirTag's internals into the new Apple TV remote? Everyone has struggled for hours looking for that elusive remote. Why not solve that problem, Apple?

Stay tuned for my comprehensive review of AirTags.

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The first video examines the reasons behind why people are breaking open Apple AirTags, providing insights into their functionality and potential vulnerabilities.

The second video discusses important tips on what not to do with Apple AirTags, helping users maximize their utility while avoiding common pitfalls.