Although AirTags cannot be configured using an Android phone, still using Apple AirTags on an Android Device is still discoverable too.
If you’re looking to utilize AirTags with your Android smartphone, unfortunately, Apple developed them solely for iPhone use, rendering them incompatible.
Nevertheless, its basic tracking feature is supported by Android to thwart unwanted surveillance. Below are all the necessary details regarding using AirTags on an Android device.
AirTags cannot be configured using an Android phone
AirTags, Apple’s Bluetooth trackers, are incompatible with Android devices, requiring an iPhone linked to Apple’s Find My network.
They use Bluetooth LE pings to identify their location, which other devices within the same network can report to Apple servers.
AirTag Bluetooth signal identifiers are randomized periodically for safety. Android devices can detect uninvited AirTags nearby, preventing potential stalking incidents.
NFC on Android devices allows users to scan AirTags and find owner and tracker information.
Google’s Find My Device network will launch globally by 2024, making third-party item trackers similar to AirTags available for purchase on Android.
Scan for Unwanted AirTags on Android
Apple and Google have partnered to provide Android 6.0+ users with unknown tracker alerts to protect against unwanted surveillance or stalking.
The Tracker Detect app initially focused on manual background scanning, but Android integrated instant alerts for unknown trackers.
If an AirTag is detected, the app will display an alert, prompting users to select Play sound for auditory localization and locate the device without notifying its owner.
The app also alerts users if an unfamiliar AirTag is being used to monitor or track their location.
Using AirTags with Android Devices: Understanding the Limitations
Once you have established an AirTag through your iPhone, it is not possible to track its location using any Android phone.
Accessing iCloud.com via a web browser on Android devices does not enable AirTag tracking due to the Find My app’s exclusive functionality for iPhones, iPads, or Macs.
Your scanning capabilities are mostly confined to discovering AirTags that you’re unaware of within your proximity.
This attribute can be utilized to prevent potential stalking or reunite a misplaced AirTag with its rightful owner.
Considering the aforementioned constraints, purchasing an AirTag for your Android gadget is unwise.
My suggestion would be to wait until Tile and Chipolo release trackers that are compatible with Find My Device.
But, if you possess a Samsung phone, then you can procure Galaxy SmartTag 2 from Amazon as it collaborates well with Samsung’s SmartThings Find network.
Conclusion
Using Apple AirTags on an Android Device is simple, Apple’s Bluetooth trackers, are incompatible with Android devices, requiring an iPhone connected to Apple’s Find My network.
However, Android devices can detect uninvited AirTags nearby, preventing potential stalking incidents. The Tracker Detect app on Android allows users to scan AirTags and find owner and tracker information.
Google’s Find My Device network will launch globally by 2024, making third-party item trackers similar to AirTags available for purchase on Android.
However, AirTags cannot be configured on Android devices, and accessing iCloud.com via a web browser does not enable tracking.
The scanning capabilities are limited to discovering AirTags in your vicinity, which can prevent potential stalking or reunite misplaced AirTags with their rightful owner.
