Can Apple's AirTag Be Used With An Android Device? | Screen Rant - Screen Rant

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Apple's AirTags are loaded with features that make them very useful tracking devices, so Android users may be wondering if they'll work with their devices too. While AirTags can't be tracked by Android devices, they can communicate with Android devices for certain purposes. Apple showcased the AirTag's precise tracking capabilities during its Spring Loaded event debut.

AirTags use a combination of ultra-wideband (UWB), Bluetooth, and near field communication (NFC) technology to pinpoint their locations. With the help of other devices that feature Apple's U1 UWB chip, any AirTag can generate a map of its exact location. However, what separates it from other trackers isn't just its hardware but its integration with Apple's exclusive Find My app as well. While only certain iPhone models can take advantage of the AirTag's full capabilities, Android devices are out of luck altogether as the Find My app isn't available to them — or any other non-Apple device for that matter.

As Apple explains, every AirTag is equipped with a variety of loss-prevention measures, including being able to communicate with devices outside of Apple's ecosystem when necessary. That means when a missing AirTag finds its way to an Android user, it can send information that can help them return it back to its owner. Of course, this can only happen under certain conditions as Android users still won't have access to Apple's Find My service, preventing them from tracking the AirTag themselves.

How Do AirTags Work With Android Devices?

AirTags can only communicate with Android devices using NFC and it's a very limited connection at that. Placing and holding the white side of an AirTag against an Android smartphone will push a notification to the phone that users can tap on. This leads to a website where users can view information about the AirTag, such as its serial number. The owner's contact information can also be viewed here provided they have set it up and put the AirTag into Lost Mode.

Lost Mode is said to work with “any device that has NFC,” so, theoretically, users can utilize it with NFC-enabled tablets, two-in-one hybrids, or smartphones running on other operating systems. Aside from viewing an AirTag's information, though, there are no functionalities available to Android users who may have been hoping to use Apple's tracking device. For Apple users, though, the uses extend beyond simply locating misplaced items, with AirTags able to be used for some clever alternative purposes too.

More: The Different Types & Styles Of AirTag Accessories

Source: Apple

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Kyle Encina (188 Articles Published)

Kyle Encina is a writer with over five years of professional experience, covering topics ranging from viral entertainment news, politics and movie reviews to tech, gaming and even cryptocurrency. During his free time, he indulges in composing melodies, listening to inspiring symphonies, physical activities, writing fictional fantasies (stories) and of course, gaming like a madman!