How does the AirTag work?

I’m confused how the AirTag works if it further than 33 feet away?


[Re-Titled by Moderator]

AirTag

Posted on Apr 5, 2023 8:32 PM

Reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Apr 6, 2023 2:53 AM

it only works if it's within bluetooth range of an ios device with bluetooth enabled


when it is then it will have the ios device send it's gps position to the appleID account the tag is registered to because it will roughly be the gps position of the tag itself, being within bluetooth range and all


so if there are no ios devices within range the tag will be dead in the water so it's not suited for tracking pets in a rural arear

29 replies

Aug 5, 2024 4:29 PM in response to Jill_lafayette1969

regarding what Chatanoogan wrote. He/she is fairly accurate but a few minor corrections are needed.


Accurate Parts:


  • AirTag movement with a non-affiliated iPhone: If an AirTag is moving with a non-affiliated iPhone for a period of time, and the owner's device is not nearby, the non-affiliated iPhone can indeed receive an alert. This is a core feature of AirTag's anti-stalking mechanism.

Inaccurate Part:


  • Being in the same room with a non-affiliated AirTag: While it's true that simply being in the same room with a non-affiliated AirTag won't immediately trigger an alert, the clarification oversimplifies the situation. Over time, if an AirTag consistently appears near a non-affiliated iPhone in various locations, it can raise suspicion and potentially trigger an alert.

To summarize:


  • Short-term proximity: No alert.


  • Long-term, repeated proximity in different locations: Potential alert.

Apple has implemented these measures to prevent unwanted tracking and protect user privacy. It's essential to remember that the system is not foolproof, and users should remain vigilant and aware of their surrounding

This thread has been closed by the system or the community team. You may vote for any posts you find helpful, or search the Community for additional answers.

How does the AirTag work?

Welcome to Apple Support Community
A forum where Apple customers help each other with their products. Get started with your Apple Account.