The launch of Apple's AirTags will undoubtedly spark interest in these Bluetooth location devices among many users, and will also prompt many brands to launch their own alternatives. Of course, Apple isn't the only company with one of these Bluetooth beacons; there are others, and that's what we're going to show you: the best alternatives to AirTags and why you should know about them.
AirTag, Apple's Bluetooth locator
As you may already know, or if not, we'll tell you now, Apple has finally launched its long-awaited AirTags. These mini Bluetooth beacons allow Apple users to know the location of their belongings at all times thanks to integration with the Find My app and the network that Apple has been building for years.
The interesting thing about this network is that it does not require the user to install any type of application, by default and making use of those privacy measures that the company has been proclaiming for a long time, any Apple user could be used to locate one of these labels when passing by with your devices.
That is, without a doubt, the main value of the AirTag among other aspects that are also interesting. Although it must also be said that the density of iPhone users in the area will be something to take into account. Therefore, despite their supposed technical advantages over the competition, they may not always be the best option for everyone.
How AirTags work
The operation of the AirTag can be explained in a simple or complex way, with many technical data that most users do not really care about. So let's opt for the first option.
AirTags use Bluetooth LE to reduce energy consumption, so they can stay active longer without needing to change the built-in CR2032 battery , and emit a signal with a greater range than other similar devices.
Thanks to this signal, when an Apple device is nearby it detects the signal and sends the data anonymously to Apple's servers so that the user who owns the AirTag can locate it. Of course, whoever has helped to locate it does not know that it has been done, because only in certain circumstances is an alert signal issued to indicate that there is an AirTag that is far from its owner.
The latter is done to prevent misuse of these locators. So you can rest assured that no one will use it to know where you are at all times. What's more, Android users will also be able to read the information from these AirTags if they find them in order to return them to their owner. Or that, at least, is the theory of what should happen. But you already know that then there are lovers of foreign things and with luck you will only find the AirTag.
The best alternatives to AirTags
As you can imagine, the AirTag will make many brands launch their own Bluetooth locators. In particular, it will be the mobile phone manufacturers who will want their own version, as has already happened with the quantifying bracelets and smart watches, to thus give them a plus of value to their devices and ecosystem.
However, if you're an iPhone user, why should you be interested in knowing what alternatives to AirTags exist? It's quite simple, but mainly because you also frequently use other operating systems like Android. Although, there are also solutions that, while not as advanced, perform various functions very well and are less expensive.
For these reasons, compatibility with other systems and price, you should at least know what alternatives exist for AirTags.
Tile
Tile is the brand that has been a leader in this type of location solution for years. That's why it offers different models like the Tile Mate, Pro, and Slim . Each has its pros and cons, but they all share a series of features and functions that make it easier for users to locate lost items.
It is true that, again, much of the effectiveness of Tile tags when the object is lost outside the home, the office or a closed place that we can better control will depend on the company's user network. The more people have the Tile app installed, the more likely they are to know your location.
However, you will always have available the information with the position of the last time the application connected to said label. So, if you can't take advantage of the rest of the users that would make up the Tile network, you'll always have a place to start looking.
Among all the models, the Pro is the most advanced of all and the one that offers the greatest signal range, but we better put the data of the three models:
- Tile Mate
- Tile Slim
- Tile Pro
With a battery life of approximately one year, only the Mate and Pro models have replaceable internal batteries . The Slim model (the more affordable one) requires a replacement battery when it runs out. The Pro is probably the most appealing, but you can explore all of Tile's options in detail and decide which one best suits your needs and preferences.
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With three models and different designs, the best thing about the Tile models is the company's experience, that they are a fairly widespread product and the possibility of two-way search. That is, you can click on the Tile to emit a signal on your phone in the event that you do not know where you left it.
Worst
If you are an iPhone user, the worst thing about the Tile is that they cost practically the same as the new AirTag. So for the value of the ecosystem itself, you may be more interested in Apple's solution.
Chipolo One Spot
Chipolo is a brand that has managed to position itself very well among users even before the launch of AirTag. The secret to this success has been its integration with Apple's Search app . Therefore, despite being a natural competitor to AirTag, it is also a great ally and alternative for Apple users.
In addition to its tracking function, this small device integrates with voice assistants like Siri, Alexa, and Google Assistant; it also enables family alerts to notify other family members if you lose, for example, your keys. Oh, and a very practical feature: it could even be used as a remote shutter release for your camera app.
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The best thing is the integration with Search, which are resistant to water and that voice control could make a difference compared to the rest. In addition to the greatest support for both iOS and Android users.
Worst
It will not be easy to get one, at least at the beginning. They are a small startup and the level of production seems that for now it will not be very large. We will see how they progress as the market and demand grow.
Cube and Cube Pro
The Cube and Cube Pro tags are very reminiscent of Samsung's SmartTags, although they also have a certain air of Tile. After all, the similarities are something normal that happen because there is not much to draw on in terms of design.
The Cube stands out for its IP67 protection and the option to serve as a two-way tracker . This means it allows you to find the object it's attached to, but also to send a signal to your phone to help locate it.
With these details and the possibility of changing the battery once it runs out, both models are a good alternative to AirTags. Especially if you are Android users or alternate between both platforms (Apple's and Google's) frequently.
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Well, it's obvious, its universal support for iOS and Android, IP67 protection, warnings when you're separated and bidirectional search.
Worst
Price similar to the AirTag and a battery life that is better than Apple's solution, although it is not something so radically different either.
Phylum
The Filo locator stands out for its rectangular design instead of the square or round of the vast majority of alternatives. This is striking, it has nothing to do with how it works because it is neither the best nor the worse, but between that and the range of colors there may be users who are more attracted to it than the rest.
Regarding options and features, it is compatible with both iOS and Android and the range of action thanks to Bluetooth LE is about 80 meters. In addition, with a CR2032 battery, the autonomy is more than 12 months.
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Compatibility with both iOS and Android, interchangeable battery and design
Worst
The search network when lost outside the home is reduced as with most alternatives, since it depends on the users with the app installed.
Bravo TrackR
Finally, the TrackR Bravo tags could also be an interesting solution for both iOS and Android users. The main appeal of these location tags is their ultra-thin design.
Thanks to their slim profile, carrying the TrrackR Bravo in your wallet might seem like a better option than the AirTag. However, you might ultimately be more drawn to the idea of ​​using them with any system, and even their Alexa support . You can find them by asking Amazon's assistant.
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The slim design and the option to replace the battery for free together with the support of iOS and Android are the best of this solution.
Worst
At the range level, the signal emitted by these tags is less than that of its rivals. So with about 30 meters or so, when you get a little further away it will be difficult for you to find the lost object compared to some of its rivals and the AirTag itself, of course.
Samsung SmartTag, aren't they an alternative to AirTags?
You've probably wondered whether Samsung's newly introduced SmartTag and SmartTag+ tags are an alternative to AirTag . The answer is no.
Why are they not an alternative to AirTags? Well, for the same reason that Apple tags would not be for Android users: they are not compatible. That is to say, the Samsung SmartTags are designed to be used with the brand's phones, so just as the AirTag is for Apple users, these are for those of the Korean manufacturer.
Even so, it is true that they are worth knowing. In case they ever offer support mainly for any Android device. Something that would make a lot of sense to end up happening.
Bluetooth beacons to come
As we said, there will be many brands that will launch their own alternatives to these AirTags recently introduced by Apple. Mobile phone manufacturers like Oppo have already revealed their proposals.
So, if you're not in a big rush right now, you can always wait a bit until you see how everything evolves. So you can assess and choose more calmly which option will best suit your needs.
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