Apple AirTag: 8 widespread questions answered
This week, Apple lastly introduced AirTag. These button-sized trackers depend on the corporate’s Discover My community to maintain tabs on absolutely anything. I’ve had a handful of them for the previous 24 hours, so don’t take into account this a full evaluation, however I can reply a number of the commonest questions I’ve seen on-line. Right here’s an inventory of issues you might be questioning.
What does the package deal appear like?
Apple sells single trackers for $29 and four-packs for $99. The packages sport a quite minimal design with an actual-size image of the AirTag on the surface. The package deal sizes make them appear like they might home a very elegant vape and its refills, respectively. They really feel completely suited to Apple to market them as “stocking stuffers” when the vacation procuring bacchanal commences later this yr.
Does AirTag have a gap in it for a clip?
Nope. You may stick it within the pocket of a jacket or a bag. However, if you wish to connect it with a clip or carabiner, you’re going to want to purchase an adjunct. I’m presently attempting out the $29 Loop, the $39 Leather-based Loop, and the $35 Leather-based Key Ring.
Numerous corporations have already introduced AirTag equipment, together with some from long-time Apple pal, Belkin. Second has introduced some easy, low-profile mounts that connect an AirTag to your laptop or pill with out an excessive amount of fuss.
Are they straightforward to arrange?
As quickly as you peel off the protecting plastic layer, the AirTag beeps and goes into pairing mode. Deliver it shut sufficient to a appropriate iPhone and it’ll pop up a well-recognized pairing module just like the one for the Apple Watch or AirPods.
The telephone will ask you if you wish to affiliate the AirTag along with your gadget, and when you agree, it asks you to decide on a reputation for it. There’s a predetermined listing of objects to select from. It’s filled with boring sensible stuff like “keys” and “backpack.” I like to recommend one thing that appears humorous now, however will develop into very annoying and irritating down the street when you should use the service. Strive one thing like “cherished sled from my childhood” or “Secret emergency stash of Aunt Annie’s pretzels reward playing cards.”
What are you able to do with AirTag as soon as it’s up and operating?
Clicking into the Discover My app provides you with a number of choices. You may play a sound from the tag so you possibly can observe it down that means. It’s also possible to use the Discover function, which depends on the latest iPhone’s built-in chip to provide you a hyper-accurate location. As soon as activated, Discover mode actually guides you to your AirTag with on-screen instructions and haptic suggestions.
It will depend on how historical we’re speaking. You’ll want iOS 14.5 to get the AirTags working, which implies something older than an iPhone 6S is out of luck. These telephones have stopped getting essential updates and it’s in all probability time to improve anyway.
What sort of battery does AirTag require and how on earth do you get the compartment open?
AirTag isn’t rechargeable. Quite, it depends on a CR2023 button battery. Imagine it or not, you could find them at most shops within the battery division. Amazon sells six-packs for $9, which is fairly low cost when you think about Apple says every one will final a yr.
To interchange the battery, set the AirTag down on a desk with the white facet going through down. Use two fingers to push down on the shiny facet, then flip barely and the again comes off. I needed to search for a YouTube video on tips on how to do it as a result of I didn’t see directions within the packaging. Possibly I misplaced the directions in a match of irony.
Is AirTag waterproof?
Apple AirTags have achieved IP67 toughness scores, which implies it ought to be capable of survive a minimum of half-hour submerged in as much as 3 ft of water. I hucked mine in a full bathtub and it appeared to work simply superb. Then I acquired within the tub, lit a candle, and wrote a few of this text as a result of it’s improper to waste water (or alternatives for self-care).
Do the shiny AirTag surfaces gather scratches and fingerprints?
Sure. I count on AirTags to get a pleasant patina because it will get destroyed by the keys in my pocket over time.
When is the total evaluation coming?
I’m going to stay with AirTag for some time to see what it’s like in the true world. I had beforehand dangerous experiences with another comparable merchandise from different corporations. They typically simply didn’t work after I wanted them. I’ve larger hopes for Apple’s effort.
