Apple released new AirTags this week. At a glance, these tiny trackers look identical to the old ones – and that’s because they are. On the outside, at least. But crack one open and you’ll find new electronics inside. These allow for improved precision finding that works up to 50 per cent further away, an upgraded Bluetooth chip with extra range, and a louder speaker. You’d also void your warranty and so probably don’t do that.
What you should do, though – if you’re a photographer always lugging a bag around – is… buy an AirTag. Not for your camera. Any thief with half a braincell would remove any dangling AirTag and gleefully throw it away. And how would you stick one on your prized snapper anyway? Gaffer tape won’t cut it. But tuck one in your bag and suddenly an AirTag isn’t a nice-to-have – it’s a must.
I know because I have a pile of the things. There’s one in my wallet and one on my keys. My daughter has AirTags in her school bags. I have one in my tech bag. And so on. Most of the time, none of these things goes missing. But recently, one did. So I opened Apple’s Find My app on my iPhone and could instantly see where it was. When in range, I then made the AirTag emit its shrill tones, guiding me right to the bag, while mildly deafened strangers nearby looked on disapprovingly.
It’s peace of mind, pure and simple. And it’s worth remembering that not everyone is a thieving rotter. Leave your expensive bag of camera things somewhere, or misplace it on a flight, and there’s a good chance it’ll end up at lost property, awaiting collection. If you’ve stashed an AirTag inside, you won’t have to turn from amateur photographer to amateur detective in order to find it.
Like Amy, I wish this technology was built into more devices. Imagine your camera itself reporting its location. Alas, only a tiny few, like the Insta360, currently do this. Still, at least you can safeguard some of your kit, with a rare Apple device that is surprisingly cheap and that has a replaceable battery.
And if you’ve read this far while fuming because you’re on Android, other tracking devices exist. In fact, Chipolo and Pebblebee ones support iOS Find My and Android Find Hub. Me? I’ll stick with my AirTags – and now grab some new ones – secure in the knowledge that if they don’t stick close to me, I’ll be able to find them – and whatever they’re nestled deep within.
Read more:
