Durability Test: My AirTag's Unexpected Journey and Lessons Learned
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Chapter 1: My Experience with AirTags
For nearly a year, I have relied on AirTags to keep track of various essential items such as my home and work keys, my bicycle, and my wallet. These small devices have proven invaluable, especially during hectic mornings when I need to quickly locate my keys or at work when I want reassurance that I haven’t misplaced them but merely left them in my car.
Recently, I decided to put one of my AirTags to the test after acquiring a new set. Since I found them to be quite beneficial, it made perfect sense to get an additional AirTag for my new everyday carry (EDC) sling bag. There were still a few items in my daily routine that lacked AirTag protection.
I chose to attach one of the new AirTags to the exterior of my sling bag. Opting for the tomtoc Explorer-T21, I was drawn to its outer straps that seemed designed to accommodate an AirTag. Aesthetically, I selected Apple’s official AirTag Loop, which ultimately turned out to be a poor choice.
Section 1.1: The Incident
On my first outing with the new sling bag, I attended a brief business meeting at the science campus where I work. While returning to my office, I received a phone call and reached for my iPhone. Unfortunately, something must have happened to the AirTag Loop during this process. Standing at a traffic light, I was unaware that I had lost my AirTag. After returning to my office, I checked the Find My app three hours later, only to find that my sling bag was registered at the traffic light instead of my office.
It was clear that the AirTag had detached due to what I would describe as a subpar design of the AirTag Loop. I should have opted for a more affordable option from Amazon. Accepting the loss, I saw that the last detected signal from the AirTag was over two hours prior, leaving me little hope of recovery. Someone without an iPhone likely picked it up.
However, since the location was on my way home, I decided to investigate…
Subsection 1.1.1: Recovering the AirTag
Upon reaching the intersection, I checked the Find My app again, but there was no connection. As I scanned the area, to my astonishment, I spotted my AirTag lying in the middle of the street! It had been there for three hours, run over by countless vehicles on a busy road. Despite being scratched, the AirTag was still functioning perfectly; the enclosure remained intact, and my iPhone had no trouble recognizing it.
What a testament to its durability!
Section 1.2: The Fate of the AirTag Loop
As for the AirTag Loop, I couldn't find any trace of it. I would have to wait until the next day to see what had happened. Crossing the street again, I discovered the AirTag Loop lying in the roadway. It must have been blown there by the wind; I have no idea where it had been previously.
Although it was in poor condition—stained and scratched—it presented a great opportunity to evaluate the materials Apple used. I had chosen the white version, which seemed impossible to clean in its current state.
After just two minutes of cleaning with dish soap and water, I was pleasantly surprised by the results.
Impressive! Kudos to Apple for their material choice. Unfortunately, the design of the closing mechanism of this AirTag Loop leaves much to be desired. It’s baffling how this product made it to market. The loop can easily pop open with a slight tug, which is exactly what happened when it was attached to my sling bag.
Chapter 2: The Flaws of Find My Notifications
The most frustrating aspect of this experience was that I was completely unaware of the missing AirTag. While on a call, I didn’t receive any notifications. In contrast, during my time with Samsung, their smartwatches would immediately alert me when I lost Bluetooth connection with my phone. This allowed me to quickly notice if I left my phone behind.
Unfortunately, the notifications from Find My are delayed and unreliable. Apple needs to improve this system. When multiple notifications appear simultaneously, it becomes chaotic. A more effective method of notification delivery is essential, perhaps by including emojis or symbols associated with the items. Notifications should also repeat until acknowledged or turned off for a specific location. Faster alerts are crucial; I don’t want to wander half a mile only to realize I’ve lost something that may already be gone.
Conclusion
Now, I’m left with a scratched AirTag, which now resides in my car where aesthetics are less of a concern. This incident has taught me about the durability of AirTags but also highlighted the shortcomings of Find My notifications. Moving forward, I will be vigilant in checking notifications after leaving a location to ensure I haven’t misplaced anything. Additionally, I’ll keep AirTags securely inside my bags.
Lastly, my advice is to avoid spending money on the AirTag Loop and to consider third-party holders instead; they likely offer a better alternative.
What has been your experience with AirTags and Find My notifications? Have you lost an AirTag without realizing it? Feel free to share your stories in the comments!
Thank you for taking the time to read this!
Tobias
This video tests the durability of Apple AirTags, showcasing whether they can withstand various conditions.
Join me as I conduct a comprehensive field test with Apple AirTags, tracking my friend and personal items.