Wondering how to use Apple AirTags on Android? We’ve got you covered.
In April 2021, Apple introduced its new product called AirTags. AirTags aims to help Apple device owners find lost items, such as a key or a backpack. All you need to do is attach it with any of your items. But what about Android users? Can they use Apple AirTags?
To understand that, we must first understand how Apple AirTags work.
How do Apple AirTags Work?
Apple AirTags uses Bluetooth trackers technology, the Find My network, and Apple’s ecosystem to help locate the belongings.
AirTags uses Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) to establish a wireless connection with an iPhone, iPad, or other Apple devices. This allows for communication over short distances while consuming minimal battery power.
When someone sets up an AirTag, it becomes associated with their Apple ID. This link enables the AirTag to be recognized and tracked by devices associated with the Apple ID. The AirTag is then integrated into Apple’s Find My app, which is used to locate lost or misplaced devices. All AirTags have an NFC chip compatible with Apple’s Find My Device network. Thus, it gives you an accurate location for your lost items through this network. The AirTag will appear in the Find My app’s “Items” tab alongside your other Apple devices.
AirTags also have a built-in speaker that can play sounds to help you locate them. You can trigger these sounds from the Find My app.
How to Use Apple AirTags on Android
Android users cannot use AirTags as they cannot access Apple’s Find My Device network. However, there is also a chance that some people may use AirTag for unethical purposes like stalking someone. They can attach their AirTags to other people’s belongings to track them in a close perimeter. There’s also a possibility that an AirTag owner might lose them.
For such purposes, Apple and Google have worked together to enable Android users to access AirTag’s information. This means that although you cannot use Apple AirTags on Android, you can still scan it for information.
There are two ways to find Apple AirTags with an Android device. Bear in mind that there are also AirTag alternatives like Galaxy SmartTag
How to Find Apple AirTag Using the Tracker Detect App
Apple has developed an Android app called the Tracker Detect to track AirTags. Apple’s intention behind this app was to enable Android users to look for AirTags lost by Apple users and return them to the owners. The Tracker Detect app can track any device compatible with Apple’s Find My Device network. However, Apple has also provided the information for Android users to disable the AirTag if they feel the device was used unethically.
Here’s how to use Tracker Detect to track AirTags:
Step
Open Tracker Detect
Open the Tracker Detect app and tap on the “Scan” button at the bottom of the screen. The device will start scanning for nearby AirTags.
Step
Select what to do with the tracking device
If you find any device, you can tap on the “Play Sound” button to find the exact location of the AirTag.
If you want more information about the device, tap the “Learn About This Item Tracker” option. It can contain different information, such as the IMEI number of the device or contact details of the owner who has lost the AirTag.
If you want to disable the tracker, click the “Instructions to Disable” button.
How to Find Apple AirTag Using the Android’s Settings App
Another way to find Apple AirTags near you is by using your Android device’s settings. However, this feature may be unavailable on your phone based on the make and model. For instance, it is not available on some Xiaomi phones.
Here are the steps to find Apple AirTags using the Settings app:
Step
Open Settings app
Open the Settings app on your Android phone.
Step
Navigate to Unknown Tracker Alerts
Select the “Safety” or “Safety & Emergency” option.
Select the “Unknown Tracker Alerts” option.
Step
Scan
Tap “Scan Now.”
This will start the search for any unknown trackers nearby.
Conclusion
Apple AirTags can be very handy when finding a lost item. However, they are not of much help to Android users. But if you are an Android user, you can still find and access the information on any AirTag using the two methods mentioned above. Either download the Tracker Detect app or use your phone’s settings to find AirTags.
FAQs
Can Android users set AirTags?
Android users cannot set AirTags, as they can’t access the Find My Device network.
Are there alternatives for AirTags that Android users can use?
Tile and SmartTag+ are some alternatives to AirTags that Android users can opt for.
