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We’ve seen deals on Apple AirTags and Samsung Galaxy SmartTags for years and I’ve always pondered why exactly a person would want a 4-pack of them…
Watching the news last Christmas of insane amounts lost luggage with the Southwest melt down I realized there was something to these tiny little trackers!!
How Do AirTags & SmartTags Work
First let me briefly explain the technology behind AirTags and SmartTags for those who are not familiar with it. The Tags are meant to help you keep track of your things – keys, devices & valuables. Each tag sends a Bluetooth signal that can be detected by ANY nearby device within the same network. Not just your personal devices, but any Apple or Samsung device! Each time a device finds your tag, you’ll get update on its location on a map.
So basically, everyone on the network can help each other locate lost items. None of your personal information is stored within the tag itself and individual location is encrypted to protect your anonymity. You can also emit a sound from any tag to locate it if it’s nearby.
Note that because Apple AirTags and Samsung Galaxy SmartTags run on Bluetooth technology rather than GPS, they are not considered the most useful devices for keeping track of people, pets, moving vehicles, etc. Anything that actively moves is best located via GPS technology. Tags are best used for locating items that are not in motion. Also note that they are not waterproof, so if you are attaching tags to washable items, please remember to remove them prior to washing.
So now that you know how they work and what they are not best used for, let’s discuss some of the ways AirTags and SmartTags can be useful.
Also, in case this list makes you super eager to AirTag everything, you have a limit of 16 AirTags that can be attached to one Apple ID. That should be plenty, but know there is technically a limit…
Great Uses for AirTags and SmartTags
Find Your Lost Keys or Wallet
This is perhaps the most obvious use. Attach a tag to your keys and wallet and never worry about losing them again! Just have the app emit a noise through the tag to help you locate it.
Track Your Luggage
No more waiting to find out if your luggage made it to the right airport (and let’s hope it always does)! Track it to make sure it’s on the same plane as you.
Some airlines would prefer passengers not use tracking tags, but these have been fully approved by the FAA.
Locate a Stolen Purse or Bag
Hide an airtag in your purse or bag to be able to locate it more quickly in the event that it is stolen.
Locate Laptops & Smart Devices
With two of my girls heading off to college, I worry about them misplacing their laptops or smart devices. College is already expensive enough!! Unfortunately, these devices may even be stolen. Have some peace of mind by attaching a tag to it.
Find Misplaced Backpacks & Water Bottles
Is your child super forgetful? Attach a tag to their backpack, water bottle and other frequently forgotten items to locate these items when they come home without them.
Find a Missing Toy or Lovey
Does your child have a favorite toy or lovey? Consider placing a tag inside it so that you can be sure to find it no matter where they forget it! If this is a toy that you wash make sure to take the tag out before washing.
Lost Remote
What is it about that TV remote? It seems to always want to hide. Attach a tag to it and avoid having to search through all the couch cushions. Newer remotes have a location feature, but for all of use living with old tech this could be great!
Remember Where You Parked Your Car
Have you ever forgotten where you parked? Place a tag in your glove compartment and locate it without the aimless wandering. Pull up the “Find My” map to see exactly where the airtag was when you last were near it!
Find A Missing Bike or Scooter
Bikes are Scooters can be easy targets for thieves. Increase your chance of finding yours if it goes missing by hiding a tag on it. Step up your game with bike mounts that hide the tag beneath a reflector!
Find a Pet
I know I mentioned they don’t work great on moving things, but if you live in this city, AirTags and SmartTags can do a great job of helping you find a lost pet. They even make pet collars designed to hold the tags! This is considerably cheaper than paying for GPS tracking services for pets.
Can you think of any other uses for Apple Airtags and Samsung Galaxy SmartTags?
