There’s no second thought that Android Users always get fascinated with Apple iPhones’ features and functionalities. But since both operating systems use different coding and methods, it’s not possible to release or create all of Apple’s applications for Android smartphones. One such feature or app that is getting immense popularity these days is Apple’s AirTag.
Apple’s new AirTags are the company’s first foray into the world of Bluetooth tracking devices, and they’re designed to help you keep track of your belongings. While AirTags is currently available for iOS devices only, there are a few ways that Android users can get in on the action.
Here’s a comprehensive guide on how you can use AirTags on your Android smartphones. Moreover, the post also outlines some of the Apple AirTags’ alternatives that are worth giving a try. So, let’s get into it.
What is Apple AirTags?
Before wondering “how to use AirTags”, let’s first answer the “what is AirTags” to learn a bit more about them. Apple’s AirTags are one of the hottest new products on the market. They are small, wireless tracking devices that can be placed on just about anything in order to help you keep track of it. If you have an iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch, you can use AirTags to keep track of your belongings.
Speaking of their physical description, this device is small, round, and white in color that comes with a built-in battery and an Apple-designed U1 chip. The U1 chip enables Ultra Wideband (UWB) technology, which allows the AirTag to be located more accurately than other Bluetooth-based tracking devices.
Once an AirTag is attached to an item, you can use the Find My app on your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch to keep track of it. You can also ask Siri to help you find your AirTag-equipped item. If an AirTag is lost and out of Bluetooth range, it will use the U1 chip and UWB technology to send its location to nearby Apple devices running iOS 14.5 or later. These devices will then relay the location of your AirTag to iCloud, so you can find it in the Find My app.
Can you Use AirTags with Android smartphones?
Now here comes the interesting factor whether you can use these AirTags with Android phones or not. Well, the answer is Yes, you can; but, its functionality is quite limited as it works on Apple’s UI chip and requires the iPhone’s Find My App.
But, to resolve this issue, Apple has launched an Android app, under the name of Tracker Detect with the intent to work as an item tracker for Android phones. The catch is that the app also works with Apple’s Find My Network; thus works almost like AirTags.
However, one thing should be noted it won’t do such things automatically and users have to prompt the app to make the tracker work.
The Best Way to Use AirTags with Android
While Apple AirTags are meant to be used with Android, you can still use some of its functionality with your Android device. However, to carry out the process, you still need a midway to bridge the gap. That midway is none other than the Tracker Detect app, launched by Apple on Google Store.
It allows Android users to scan for nearby AirTags and get some of its functionality. If the app detects an AirTag or other item tracker that’s near you for a minimum of ten minutes. Here’s how you can stop your Android from tracking.
- To commence the process, download and install the Tracker Detect app from Google Play Store by following the on-screen prompts.
- Launch the app on your device and click on the Scan button. Now, go to Stop Scanning to terminate the process.
Another way to use AirTags with Android is to scan a lost AirTag if you want to find one. While this method isn’t as effective as it would be on the iPhone, it still allows you to check the phone number entered by an AirTag owner. It further helps you reunite the AirTag and its connected member.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Scan For AirTags with Android
AirTags can be easily scanned from any device containing an NFC reader, which means you can easily scan a lost AirTag with your Android smartphone. All you have to do is follow the steps mentioned below and execute the process easily.
- Firstly, click on the White Side of the Airtag on your phone and place it against the NFC reader.
- If the AirTag is lost, then you can easily find the details of the owner on your screen, including the owner’s serial number and phone number.
The Best AirTags Alternatives For Android Users
If you’re looking for AirTags alternatives for Android, there are a few options available. Let’s find out the 2 best options here, namely Tile Mate and Chipolo One.
- Tile Mate
Tile is one of the most popular AirTags alternatives and offers a variety of products that can be attached to keychains, backpacks, or even placed inside wallets. Like Apple’s AirTags, Tile also uses the Bluetooth Low Energy concept to connect to your Android phone. Its range is advertised as 200 feet, making it one of the best trackers to opt for.
- Chipolo One
If you’re looking for a way to keep track of your belongings, then can also check out Chipolo One. It offers the same features as the Tile Mate for the same price; however, it’s round instead of square while offering a nice collection of color choices.
Conclusion
So there you have it — a quick and easy guide on how to get AirTags for your Android device. Whether you’re looking to keep track of your keys or want to make sure you never lose your phone again, AirTags are a great option. If you want to make the best out of the tracker apps, then it’s recommended to try the AirTags alternatives for Android and keep a check on your belongings without running around.