AirTag for Android: How it works and alternatives.

If you use an Android and you’re curious about Apple’s AirTag, the good news is that some basic functionality is available but there are limitations. Here’s what to expect from AirTag on Android:

What you can do:

• Scan a lost AirTag: If you lost an AirTag, you can use your Android phone’s Near Field Communication (NFC) feature to scan it. If the AirTag is in Lost Mode, this will pull up a web page with contact information.
• Detect unknown AirTags: Apple offers an app called Tracker Detect for Android, which helps you identify nearby AirTags that are not registered to you. This can be useful for ensuring your privacy and security.

What you can’t do:

• Pair an Apple AirTag: AirTags are designed to pair exclusively with Apple devices through the Find My network. On Android, you can’t register or track your own AirTags.
• Use advanced tracking features: Real-time location updates and Precision Finding are only available on iOS devices.

For full functionality, AirTags are best suited for those within the Apple ecosystem. For your Android device, we’ve suggested some alternatives below.

While AirTag offers more tracking features for Apple devices, there are plenty of excellent options tailored to Android devices. Here are some of the top AirTag alternatives for Android that provide similar functionality, helping you keep track of your valuables with ease.

1. Tile trackers

Tile is one of the most popular AirTag alternatives and works seamlessly with Android devices. Available in various models like the Tile Mate, Tile Pro and Tile Slim, these trackers offer a range of features:

• Find nearby items by ringing the tracker through the Tile app
• See the last known location on a map
• Community Find: If your item is out of Bluetooth range, other Tile users can help locate it anonymously

2. Samsung Galaxy SmartTag

For Samsung devices, the Galaxy SmartTag is a powerful option that integrates directly with the SmartThings app. Key features include:

• Precise tracking of your belongings
• Smart home control: Use your SmartTag to automate smart devices, like turning off lights when you leave home
• Offline finding using other Samsung devices in the SmartThings network

3. Chipolo One

Chipolo One offers a sleek design and reliable tracking for Android devices. The companion app provides:

• Out-of-range alerts, so you’re notified if you leave something behind
• Loud ring feature to quickly locate nearby items
• Google Assistant support for voice-activated tracking

4. Google’s Find My Device

For Android devices, Google’s Find My Device is your very own built-in solution. While it doesn’t use external trackers, it helps locate phones, tablets and even connected accessories like Pixel Buds. Key features include:

• Real-time location tracking
• Remote locking and erasing of lost devices
• Sound alerts to find misplaced items nearby

If you’ve chosen an AirTag alternative for Android, getting started is simple. Most of these devices are designed to integrate seamlessly with your phone, offering powerful tracking features. Here’s how to use them:

1. Set up your tracker

Each tracker has its own app for setup and tracking. Here’s how to get started:

• Tile: Download the Tile app from the Google Play Store, create an account and follow the on-screen instructions to pair your Tile tracker
• Samsung Galaxy SmartTag: Open the SmartThings app on your Samsung device, tap “Add Device” and select “SmartTag” to connect
• Chipolo One: Install the Chipolo app, sign in and tap “Add New Chipolo” to begin pairing

2. Track your items

Once paired, these apps allow you to monitor your tracker’s location in real-time:

• View on a map: Check the app to see your item’s last known or current location
• Ring your tracker: If the item is nearby, use the app to make the tracker play a loud sound

3. Advanced features

Many of these trackers come with advanced features:

• Out-of-range alerts: Get notifications when you’ve left something behind
• Community finding: Lost an item far away? Other devices with the same app can anonymously help you locate it
• Smart Home integration: Galaxy SmartTag can automate tasks like turning off lights or activating appliances when they leave home

4. Setting up Find My Device

For tracking your Android devices themselves, the Find My Device service is quick and simple to use:

• Sign in with your Google account at Find My Device or through the app
• Locate your devices: View them on a map, ring them or secure them remotely

Whatever your choice, each tracker ensures your valuables stay safe and easy to find—giving you peace of mind.

But when it comes to keeping track of your Android devices, you don’t need to look far—Google’s Find My Device is a powerful, built-in solution that’s free and easy to use. Whether you’ve misplaced your phone, tablet or even accessories like Pixel Buds, Find My Device has you covered without needing more accessories.

Why Find My Device is the best for Android

1. Seamless integration
Find My Device is part of Google’s ecosystem, meaning it’s already integrated into your Android device. All you need is a Google account, and you’re ready to go—no need for extra hardware or apps (though there is a dedicated app for added convenience).

2. Real-time location tracking
Lost your phone? Find My Device allows you to pinpoint its location on a map in real-time so you know exactly where to look. This feature works whenever your device is connected to Wi-Fi or mobile data.

3. Remote management
Beyond locating your device, Find My Device offers robust remote management tools:

• Play sound: Make your phone ring loudly, even on silent, to help you find it nearby
• Secure device: Lock your phone and display a custom message with your contact info to help someone return it
• Erase device: If your phone is lost for good, you can wipe its data remotely to protect your personal information

4. Cross-device access
You can access Find My Device from any browser by visiting Find My Device or using the dedicated app on your Android device. This flexibility ensures you can always locate your devices no matter where you are.

5. No extra cost
Unlike physical trackers, which often require an upfront purchase and sometimes a subscription for premium features, Find My Device is completely free—making it the most cost-effective way to keep track of your Android devices.

Whether you’re using Google’s Find My Device or exploring top AirTag alternatives for Android, staying connected to your belongings has never been easier. Take control today by choosing the tracker that best fits your needs, and enjoy peace of mind knowing your items are always within reach.

Start tracking smarter—download the app or set up your device today.