Apple’s iOS 18.2 update brings an exciting addition to the Find My app. The new feature, “Share Item Location,” allows users to share their AirTag or Find My-compatible accessory locations with trusted contacts. This update aims to make tracking personal items and luggage easier, especially when items go missing.
Enhanced Tracking for Travelers
For travelers, the ability to share an AirTag’s location is a significant improvement. With this feature, users can involve airline staff or friends to help locate misplaced bags. If luggage gets lost at the airport or during transit, travelers can share their AirTag’s location, enabling others to assist in tracking it down. Currently, over 15 airlines, including Air Canada, British Airways, and Delta, support this feature, with more likely to join soon.
Privacy and Security Measures
Apple prioritizes user privacy and has implemented strict controls. Only selected airline personnel can access shared AirTag locations, and they must verify their identity first. Additionally, users retain control over the sharing settings. They can stop sharing at any time, and if left unchanged, the shared access expires automatically after seven days.
Easy Access Through Find My
The Share Item Location feature is available in the Find My app on iPhone, iPad, and Mac. To use it, users generate a link in the app and share it with their chosen contacts or airline representatives. The link provides a live map showing the item’s current location, including the last updated timestamp. This ensures that anyone tracking the item has accurate and up-to-date information.
Expanding Find My’s Capabilities
Apple’s iOS 18.2, compatible with iPhone XS and newer models, extends the capabilities of the Find My app. Eddy Cue, Apple’s Senior Vice President of Services, described this update as a step toward making item recovery easier and more secure. This feature empowers travelers to manage their belongings more efficiently.
