Apple is taking a proactive approach to addressing the misuse of its popular AirTags. The company has announced a new feature for its Find My app that allows users to share the location of lost items, including AirTags, with third parties like airlines. This update aims to enhance user safety and convenience while addressing concerns about AirTags being used for stalking.
The new feature, aptly named Share Item Location, is part of the upcoming iOS 18.2 update and will soon be available to all iPhone users with iPhone Xs and later models. Users can generate a secure link within the Find My app, enabling them to share the location of their AirTag or other Find My network accessories with individuals, companies, or organizations. This link will expire after seven days, ensuring temporary access and control over privacy.
The ability to share AirTag locations directly with airlines holds significant potential for combating lost luggage. Over 15 airlines, including prominent carriers like United Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and British Airways, will soon adopt this feature as part of their customer service processes. If a traveler’s bag goes missing, they can use the Share Item Location feature to provide airlines with the precise location of their AirTag-equipped luggage, potentially expediting the retrieval process.
This new feature is a response to the growing concerns surrounding AirTag misuse. In 2023, a class-action lawsuit was filed against Apple, accusing the company of failing to adequately address reports of AirTags being used for stalking. While Apple has always maintained a commitment to user privacy, the lawsuit highlighted the need for further safeguards. This update, combined with Apple’s previous initiatives, demonstrates the company’s commitment to addressing these concerns and ensuring AirTags remain a valuable tool for users while minimizing the risks associated with misuse.
The new AirTag sharing feature is expected to be available as part of the iOS 18.2 public beta release, and will eventually be rolled out to all users as a free software update. This update is sure to benefit both travelers and airlines, making the process of locating lost luggage smoother and more efficient.
