What is the equivalent of AirTag for Android?
Discover a complete article to help you choose the best tracker if you own an Android device.
AirTag, a popular but not always compatible tracker
The release of Apple's AirTag marked a significant development in the item tracking market. Yet, its exclusivity to Apple's ecosystem has left many Android users searching for alternatives.
This article aims to fill this gap by exploring a range of Android-compatible trackers, examining their features, and comparing them to Apple's AirTag to offer a comprehensive solution for all tracking needs.
AirTag and its limitations on Android
What is an AirTag?
The AirTag is a Bluetooth-based tracking device developed by Apple, designed to integrate seamlessly into its ecosystem. It connects to Apple's 'Find My' network, allowing users to track the location of lost or misplaced items such as keys, wallets, or bags via an interface on their iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
Its sleek, compact, round design makes it easy to attach to a variety of objects, and its functionality extends to tracking even larger items like luggage, vehicles, or pets. Additionally, the AirTag prioritizes privacy, ensuring that only authorized individuals can access its location information.
Incompatibility with Android
However, the AirTag's utility is limited to Apple's ecosystem. It cannot be used with Android smartphones or tablets, excluding a significant portion of the market.
This limitation has led Android users to seek alternatives that can seamlessly integrate with their devices, highlighting the need for universal GPS trackers compatible with all operating systems.
What is the best GPS tracker?
To help you, we invite you to download this free guide. It will answer all your questions:
- Choosing a tracker with or without a subscription?
- Which technology is best?
- Is there a distance limit?
- Is the tracking in real time?
- How long does the battery last?
And much more...
Section 1
Android alternatives to AirTag
When selecting a tracker for Android, it's essential to consider compatibility, size, key features, as well as cost, which varies according to features and subscription type.
Selection criteria
Compatibility
The tracker must work seamlessly with Android devices, integrating effectively to ensure all its features are accessible. This integration is crucial to avoid connectivity or synchronization issues, allowing for a smooth user experience and reliable tracking.
Design and size
The design and size of the tracker are essential considerations, depending on its intended use. For smaller items like keys or wallets, a compact, discreet tracker is ideal.
For larger objects such as vehicles or sports equipment, a larger tracker may be more appropriate. The tracker's shape should also suit the object, ensuring it remains secure and functional during use.
Features
The features of the tracker are key to its overall performance. The Bluetooth range is particularly important, as it determines how far away you can track a lost item. A larger range provides better coverage for locating objects across extended areas. Water resistance is crucial for outdoor use or in environments where the tracker may be exposed to moisture.
This feature ensures the tracker remains functional regardless of weather conditions.Alerts, including audible or visual notifications, help locate lost items quickly and efficiently, improving the tracker's overall utility.
Price
The price of the tracker is another critical factor. Basic models offer standard tracking features at an affordable price, while advanced trackers with greater Bluetooth range, better water resistance, and precise alerts tend to be more expensive.
Additionally, there are trackers that require subscriptions, which increase their long-term cost but offer additional features such as real-time tracking without distance limitations. This is made possible by using cellular networks instead of Bluetooth.
Section 2
Top Android Trackers
Android alternatives to AirTag offer a variety of tailored tracking features, from broad compatibility and ease of use to specialist pet tracking solutions.
Samsung SmartTag
The Samsung SmartTag is a compelling option for Android users, integrating seamlessly with Samsung's ecosystem. Its functionality compares well to the AirTag, allowing users to track a variety of personal items like keys, bags, or wallets.
Its smooth integration with other Samsung products makes it an attractive choice for those already within the Samsung ecosystem.
Tile
Tile offers a versatile range of trackers, compatible with a variety of Android devices. The Tile Pro stands out for its durability and extended range, making it suitable for tracking items across long distances.
Its combination of robustness, extended range, and compatibility with Android makes it a reliable choice for a variety of tracking needs.
Chipolo One
The Chipolo One provides cross-platform compatibility, including Android, with effective tracking features and easy use. Its powerful alerts help locate nearby lost items, and its availability in bright colors adds visibility and style, making it easier to find.
This combination of practicality and aesthetic appeal makes the Chipolo One a viable option for securing and tracking personal belongings.
Weenect
Unlike the previously mentioned trackers, Weenect specializes in GPS tracking for pets, offering a subscription-based service. It provides real-time tracking without distance limits, using a cellular connection instead of Bluetooth. This allows pet owners to keep track of their furry companions regardless of their location.
Additionally, the Weenect XS offers features such as creating virtual security zones, sending alerts if pets leave these zones, and tracking their physical activity, making it a comprehensive solution for pet owners.
Comparison table
This table lists all the features and functions of the different trackers.
AirTag
| Compatibility |
IOS |
|---|---|
| Connectivity |
Bluetooth et UWB (extremely precise location) |
| Waterproofing |
Rated IP67 (maximum depth of 1 metre up to 30 minutes) |
| Battery |
Replaceable battery lasts just over a year |
| Size and weight |
31.9 x 31.9 x 8 mm ; 11 grams |
| Colours |
White with possible engraving |
| Guarantee |
1 year guarantee |
| Subscription | No |
| Real-time GPS tracking | No |
|---|---|
| Bluetooth distance/range limit |
Up to 160 feet |
| Ring | Yes |
| Vibrator | No |
| Torch | No |
Smart Tag 2
| Compatibility |
Android |
|---|---|
| Connectivity |
Bluetooth |
| Waterproofing |
Rated IP67 (to a depth of 1 metre for a maximum of 30 minutes) |
| Battery |
Replaceable battery lasts just over a year |
| Size and weight |
28.8 x 52.44 x 8 mm ; 13.75 grams |
| Colours |
White and black |
| Guarantee |
2-year guarantee |
| Subscription | No |
| Real-time GPS tracking | No |
|---|---|
| Bluetooth distance/range limit |
Up to 390 feet |
| Ring | Yes |
| Vibrator | No |
| Torch | No |
Tile Pro
| Compatibility |
IOS and Andoid |
|---|---|
| Connectivity |
Bluetooth |
| Waterproofing |
Rated IP67 (to a depth of 1 metre for a maximum of 30 minutes) |
| Battery |
Replaceable battery lasts up to a year |
| Size and weight |
58.8 x 33.6 x 7.7 mm ; 14 grams |
| Colours |
White and black |
| Guarantee |
1 year guarantee |
| Subscription | No |
| Real-time GPS tracking | No |
|---|---|
| Bluetooth distance/range limit |
Up to 390 feet |
| Ring | Yes |
| Vibrator | No |
| Torch | No |
Chipolo One
| Compatibility |
IOS and Andoid |
|---|---|
| Connectivity |
Bluetooth |
| Waterproofing |
Rated IP65 (splash-resistant) |
| Battery |
Replaceable battery lasts up to 2 years |
| Size and weight |
35 x 35 x 5 mm ; 7.57 grams |
| Colours |
White, Black, Green, Red, Yellow and Blue |
| Guarantee |
30-day guarantee |
| Subscription | No |
| Real-time GPS tracking | No |
|---|---|
| Bluetooth distance/range limit |
Up to 200 feet |
| Ring | Yes |
| Vibrator | No |
| Torch | No |
Weenect XS
| Compatibility |
IOS and Andoid |
|---|---|
| Connectivity |
SIM card included in the product - 5G, 4G (NB-IoT/LTE-M), 2G |
| Waterproofing |
Rated IP68 (up to a depth of 1m50 for a maximum of one hour) |
| Battery |
Rechargeable battery for up to 10 days' autonomy |
| Size and weight |
60.5 x 24.5 x 15mm ; 27 grams |
| Colours |
White and black |
| Guarantee |
Lifetime guarantee |
| Subscription | Yes |
| Real-time GPS tracking | Yes |
|---|---|
| Bluetooth distance/range limit |
No distance limit |
| Ring | Yes |
| Vibrator | Yes |
| Torch | Yes |
| AirTag | Smart Tag 2 | Tile Pro | Chipolo One | Weenect XS | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price of plotter |
|
|
|
|
|
| Technical specifications | |||||
| Compatibility |
IOS |
Android |
IOS and Andoid |
IOS and Andoid |
IOS and Andoid |
| Connectivity |
Bluetooth et UWB (extremely precise location) |
Bluetooth |
Bluetooth |
Bluetooth |
SIM card included in the product - 5G, 4G (NB-IoT/LTE-M), 2G |
| Waterproofing |
Rated IP67 (maximum depth of 1 metre up to 30 minutes) |
Rated IP67 (to a depth of 1 metre for a maximum of 30 minutes) |
Rated IP67 (to a depth of 1 metre for a maximum of 30 minutes) |
Rated IP65 (splash-resistant) |
Rated IP68 (up to a depth of 1m50 for a maximum of one hour) |
| Battery |
Replaceable battery lasts just over a year |
Replaceable battery lasts just over a year |
Replaceable battery lasts up to a year |
Replaceable battery lasts up to 2 years |
Rechargeable battery for up to 10 days' autonomy |
| Size and weight |
31.9 x 31.9 x 8 mm ; 11 grams |
28.8 x 52.44 x 8 mm ; 13.75 grams |
58.8 x 33.6 x 7.7 mm ; 14 grams |
35 x 35 x 5 mm ; 7.57 grams |
60.5 x 24.5 x 15mm ; 27 grams |
| Colours |
White with possible engraving |
White and black |
White and black |
White, Black, Green, Red, Yellow and Blue |
White and black |
| Guarantee |
1 year guarantee |
2-year guarantee |
1 year guarantee |
30-day guarantee |
Lifetime guarantee |
| Subscription | No | No | No | No | Yes |
| Tracker features | |||||
| Real-time GPS tracking | No | No | No | No | Yes |
| Bluetooth distance/range limit |
Up to 160 feet |
Up to 390 feet |
Up to 390 feet |
Up to 200 feet |
No distance limit |
| Ring | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Vibrator | No | No | No | No | Yes |
| Torch | No | No | No | No | Yes |
Read more about our guide
This article is part of a complete guide on the subject. Don't miss the other chapters.
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