In today’s fast-paced world, keeping track of your belongings while travelling can be a challenge. Thankfully, smart trackers have changed the way we keep track of our belongings. These innovative devices use cutting-edge technology to provide real-time location information, ensuring peace of mind during your journeys. But how do AirTags work? What does the SmartTag use to track locations? Is JioTag Air different from other devices? We decode how these best smart trackers work to revolutionise your travels and keep your luggage safe.
AirTags, SmartTags, JioTag Air: What makes smart trackers an essential travel companion?
Also known as Bluetooth trackers, smart trackers use a combination of GPS technology and Bluetooth connectivity to pinpoint their location. Unlike traditional tracking devices that rely on cellular networks, smart trackers operate independently, ensuring privacy and reliability.
Some of the most popular smart trackers on the market include Apple’s Airtag, Samsung’s SmartTag and JioTag Air.
How do AirTags and other smart trackers work?
By attaching a smart tracker to your luggage, backpack, or other valuable items, you can easily track their location in real time. If your belongings are misplaced or lost, the tracker can help you locate them easily and in no time.
Bluetooth tracking tags have a unique signature that can be easily traced through this technology. Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) is established to use very little battery power to maintain a connection between the tracker and your personal device. This Bluetooth signal is emitted privately and securely, using signals of other devices to know its precise location. Don’t worry, no one but you can see the location of these trackers unless you have shared it with your friends or family members. These tracers pin the exact location and even help you find your way to them.
Explore more with this list of anti-theft accessories to keep your luggage safe and travel stress-free.
The best smart trackers to pick to keep luggage in sight
Apple AirTag
First introduced in 2021, the Apple AirTag has become one of the best smart trackers out there, thanks to its discreet size and versatility when paired with its accessories. It’s designed for Apple users and uses the Find My app to track all your tagged items, from luggage and handbags to pets. You can share the location of one AirTag with up to five people. Apple AirTags work by using Bluetooth and GPS location. One AirTag costs S$45, while a pack of four costs S$149.
Key features:
- One-year battery life, easily replaceable.
- Water-resistant
- Customisable with initials and emojis.
Samsung SmartThings Tracker, Galaxy SmartTag and Galaxy SmartTag2
Samsung users can choose from three smart trackers to locate belongings like luggage through the SmartThings App.
Key features:
- Long battery life: SmartThings Tracker lasts one week with a charging option, while the Galaxy SmartTag lasts up to 300 days, and Galaxy SmartTag 2 lasts up to 500 days, featuring easily replaceable batteries.
- Water-resistant
Shop Samsung SmartThings trackers here
Tile Pro, Mate, Slim and Sticker
Compatible with iOS and Android, Tile specialises only in Bluetooth smart trackers, creating versatile designs that can be discreetly hidden or stowed among your belongings. They are different from others because they have the SOS alert option and do not require accessories to attach to your objects. Tile trackers start from US29.99 (approx. S$33)
Key features:
- Battery life: While Pro lasts one year, Mate, Slim and Pro last up to three years, featuring easily replaceable batteries.
- Water-resistant
Knog Scout Travel
Compatible for use with both Apple and Android phones, the Knot Scout Travel tracker is slightly more advanced in that it combines your digital contact information, a highly accurate luggage finder via Apple’s Find My network, and an 85dB motion sensitive alarm to provide more luggage security. The Knot Scout Travel costs US$59.95 (approx. S$80).
Key features:
- One-year battery life, easily replaceable.
- Water-resistant
- Comes in five colours
- Secured with anti-temper tether
- USB-C rechargeable with two months battery life
Buy the Knog Scout Travel tracker here
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(Hero and featured image credit: Apple)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
All Apple products like the iPhone, Mac and iPad are compatible AirTag devices.
The AirTag battery life lasts up to a year.
Yes, AirTag can track my location in real time.
Yes, up to five people can track the same AirTag.
AirTags are water-resistant.
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Written by
Priyaja took her love for reading to the next level by majoring in English and minoring in Journalism at Lady Shri Ram College For Women (DU). She is extremely curious about the world and wishes to visit all the countries once in her life. She identifies as a foodie and loves to spend her free time exploring different cuisine and curating new dishes. As a former Food Writer at NDTV, she can help you find the best places to eat in Delhi!
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