An AirTag on a car is an Apple tracking device repurposed from its intended use (like finding keys or a backpack) to monitor a vehicle's location. It's a small, coin-sized gadget that uses Bluetooth to communicate its position to any nearby Apple device in the vast Find My network. This data is then relayed to the owner's iCloud account, allowing them to see the car's location on a map in the Find My app. While not a dedicated automotive GPS tracker, its low cost and simplicity have made it a popular tool for both owners wanting to keep tabs on their vehicle and, unfortunately, for criminals to track cars without the owner's knowledge.
The primary benefit is theft recovery. If your car is stolen, an AirTag can provide crucial location data to law enforcement. It's also useful for remembering where you parked a car in a massive lot or for monitoring the movements of a newly licensed teen driver. However, there are significant limitations. An AirTag's location updates are not real-time; they depend on an Apple device passing within Bluetooth range (about 30 feet). In rural areas with less foot traffic, updates can be infrequent.
A major concern is unwanted tracking. As a security feature, an iPhone will eventually notify its user if an AirTag that doesn't belong to them is moving with them over time. This is designed to prevent stalking, but it also means a thief could be alerted to the presence of your tracking device. For continuous, real-time tracking, a hardwired GPS tracker is a more reliable, though more expensive, solution.
| Feature | Apple AirTag | Dedicated GPS Tracker |
|---|
| Tracking Technology | Bluetooth (via Apple's Find My network) | Cellular (GPS + GSM) |
| Real-Time Updates | No, requires passing Apple devices | Yes, continuous |
| Subscription Fee | None | Typically required |
| Battery Life | ~1 year (user-replaceable CR2032) | Varies; often requires charging |
| Cost | ~$29 | $50 - $200+ plus subscription |
| Primary Use Case | Theft recovery, finding parked car | Fleet management, real-time monitoring |
