AirTags Not Reachable/ Can’t Fund

Trying to be positive but it’s hard when a device meant to be found and tracked doesn’t work, or only works when it’s right next to me. I put one on my little dog and it simply doesn’t update its location. I’ve looked at the many complaints and suggestions but nothing seems to work. If I’m twenty feet from the device I get a “AirTag Not Reachable” message. Are there better devices such as the Tile.

Posted on Jul 11, 2023 7:34 AM

Reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Jul 11, 2023 8:43 AM

Are there "better" devices for keeping track of your pet ... yes, and it would be one that relies on GPS, not Bluetooth. An Apple AirTag would be the latter.


That means, the AirTag would need to be within Bluetooth range (around 20-40 ft) of an iPhone to send its current location to. The Bluetooth "beacon" sends that signal approximately once every 10 mins to conserve energy.


As such, whether or not, another iPhone is nearby by your pet during one of those transmissions will dictate, whether or not, it will show up in the Find My app on your phone.


The bottom line? An AirTag is designed to work best for finding a lost or misplaced item, like car keys, not for tracking pets or people.

4 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Jul 11, 2023 8:43 AM in response to DisappointedByAirTags

Are there "better" devices for keeping track of your pet ... yes, and it would be one that relies on GPS, not Bluetooth. An Apple AirTag would be the latter.


That means, the AirTag would need to be within Bluetooth range (around 20-40 ft) of an iPhone to send its current location to. The Bluetooth "beacon" sends that signal approximately once every 10 mins to conserve energy.


As such, whether or not, another iPhone is nearby by your pet during one of those transmissions will dictate, whether or not, it will show up in the Find My app on your phone.


The bottom line? An AirTag is designed to work best for finding a lost or misplaced item, like car keys, not for tracking pets or people.

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.

AirTags Not Reachable/ Can’t Fund

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