AirTag Gets a Game-Changing Feature in iOS 18.2: Here's How It Works

Apple has rolled out a new feature for AirTag (available on Amazon) and other items in the Find My app with the release of iOS 18.2, making it easier than ever to locate lost belongings. The feature, called Share Item Location, is a practical addition designed to reduce the stress of misplacing important items, especially in high-stakes situations like travel.

What is Share Item Location?

The Find My app has always allowed AirTag users to share an item’s location, but the previous feature was primarily for long-term tracking with trusted friends or family. Share Item Location, however, is designed for temporary use and is specifically tailored to situations where an item is lost.

This new feature allows users to generate a shareable link that shows the item’s real-time location on an interactive map. The recipient, such as an airline representative or a helpful contact, can access this link to assist in locating the item. The link automatically updates with new location data and timestamps, ensuring everyone is on the same page during the recovery process.

How to Use Share Item Location

Getting started with Share Item Location is straightforward. If you’ve updated to iOS 18.2, follow these steps to use the feature:

Open the Find My app on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
Navigate to the Items tab.
Select the AirTag or item you want to share.
Scroll down and tap Share Item Location.
Follow the prompts to activate sharing and generate a shareable link.

Once the link is shared, the recipient can view the item’s real-time location via a web page.

Why It’s a Game-Changer

One standout use case for this feature is tracking lost luggage. Apple has already partnered with more than 15 airlines to integrate Share Item Location into their customer service processes, allowing passengers to share AirTag locations directly with airline representatives. This partnership ensures faster and more accurate assistance in recovering lost baggage, turning a common travel headache into a manageable inconvenience.

Privacy Considerations

While Share Item Location is designed to be helpful, users should be aware of privacy implications. Apple notes that recipients of the shared link will be able to view select information, such as the item’s serial number and the user’s Apple ID email or phone number.

This intentional transparency allows third parties, such as airline staff, to contact users when necessary, but it’s important to share the link only with trusted individuals.

What’s Next for AirTag?

With Share Item Location, Apple has added a practical tool to its suite of AirTag features, reinforcing its position as a must-have gadget for staying organized and stress-free. As more airlines and services adopt this functionality, its utility will only grow.

Have you tried the new Share Item Location feature yet?

Let us know how it’s working for you and whether it’s made tracking down lost items easier in your life!

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Eric Sandler

Chief Writer at WiFi Planet

Eric Sandler is a veteran US tech writer with over 25 years of experience covering the latest advancements in the world of technology. From groundbreaking innovations to in-depth reviews, Eric has built a reputation for delivering insightful, reliable content. His work spans across a variety of tech topics, including smartphones, gadgets, AI, and more, making him a trusted voice in the industry.