Do AirTags Require Bluetooth To Work? (Solved)

Apple’s AirTags make it incredibly simple to locate and track stuff such as your keys, wallets, suitcases, backpacks, and more.

If you’re new to AirTags, or perhaps considering buying some, one question you might be curious about is, do AirTags require Bluetooth to work? Fear not because I have the answer in this article.

An AirTag uses Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) protocol to communicate with nearby Apple devices for proximity finding. An AirTag also uses Bluetooth during the setup process.

image of the AirTag registration screen with a title that reads do AirTags require Bluetooth to work
 Instantly connect your AirTag using Bluetooth during setup.

Do AirTags Need Bluetooth?

At its core, an AirTag needs Bluetooth to send secure signals to nearby Apple devices in the Find My network for proximity finding.

If your AirTag is no longer within Bluetooth range of your device, it will use other Apple devices through the Bluetooth protocol in the Apple Find My network and use those devices to broadcast location data.

In addition to proximity finding and tracking, an AirTag depends on connecting to Apple devices via Bluetooth during the setup and pairing process, (typically your iPhone, iPad or iPod Touch) since there is no USB or USB-C AirTag cable port for connectivity.

Pack of 4 Apple AirTags

Single Apple AirTag

From How Far Away Does Bluetooth Work?

According to Apple, an AirTag must be within a range of approximately 33 feet (10 meters) for a Bluetooth connection to work.

image of an Apple AirTag and its location displayed on the Find My app on an iPhone
Bluetooth Apple AirTag.

Bluetooth works at its best when there is a clear line of sight. And since AirTags do not use a cellular service, you should know that obstacles such as buildings, walls, and metal can have an impact on how effective and strong a Bluetooth signal and range is.

Inside an AirTag you will find a 2.4GHz 5.2 Bluetooth Low Energy antenna. The 2.4 GHz band is ideal for short-range communication, as it has a relatively low power output and is less prone to interference from other wireless devices. Additionally, its wide availability makes it an ideal choice for devices that require global coverage.

Can AirTags Work Without Bluetooth?

To work, AirTags must be paired to an Apple device such as an iPhone, iPad or iPod Touch using Bluetooth.

image to AirTag connect set up screen
An AirTag needs Bluetooth during setup.

Without turning on your device’s Bluetooth feature, you can’t pair an AirTag during setup. Also, an AirTag sends a secure Bluetooth signal to nearby Apple devices within the Find My network. So despite having an Ultra Wideband antenna and an NFC antenna, an AirTag still needs Bluetooth to operate successfully.

Do AirTags Need WiFi?

An AirTag does not require WiFi or an internet connection to track the location of your stuff. However, the Find My app is needed to display the location of your things. To get the most out of the app, you should turn your WiFi on.

image of a man looking for something under a sofa and an image of Apple Precision Finding on an iPhone
Precision Finding can lead you straight to your AirTag.

If your AirTag is close to you, your Apple device, using Precision Finding, will lead you straight to it. Precision Finding uses Ultra Wideband technology instead of WiFi to provide spacial and directional information on supported Apple devices.

However, if your AirTag is not near, your AirTag can also be put into Lost Mode, (just like other Apple products). When your AirTag is found by another Bluetooth Apple device, you will immediately receive a notification of its location. All this tracking and communication happens without your AirTag connecting to WiFi.

Frequently Asked Questions

Hopefully, I have answered all of your questions on, do AirTags require Bluetooth. However, you may still have other questions surrounding Apple AirTags. If you do, below, I answer some common frequently asked questions.

What version of iOS is required to use an AirTag?

An AirTag requires iOS 14.5 or later.

What version of Bluetooth does an AirTag have?

An AirTag uses Bluetooth Low Energy 5.2.

How often does an AirTag transmit a Bluetooth signal?

An AirTag transmits a Bluetooth advertisement every two seconds.

Final Thoughts On Do AirTags Require Bluetooth To Work

So, in conclusion. Do AirTags require Bluetooth to work? Yes. AirTags will not operate without Bluetooth. An AirTag needs Bluetooth as part of the setup process when pairing with an Apple device. Also, an AirTag transmits a secure Bluetooth signal to nearby devices in the Find My network for location finding.


Affiliate disclaimer. We may receive an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you if you purchase a product after clicking on one of our links. This doesn’t affect our editorial independence.

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Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology has been revolutionizing the way we live our lives.From personal productivity to health and wellness, and even entertainment, AI has made it possible for us to achieve more with less effort. By leveraging the power of machine learning algorithms, AI sites can help us automate tasks, provide personalized recommendations, and improve our overall quality of life. In this article, we will explore the top 10 AI sites that can help you transform your life in three key areas: personal productivity and efficiency, health and wellness, and entertainment and leisure. So, whether you’re looking to streamline your workday, improve your physical and mental well-being, or simply have some fun, these AI sites are sure to make a difference!

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Let’s dive into the realm of AI assistants—those handy digital helpers that are transforming our daily lives. From setting reminders to transcribing calls, these tools offer a myriad of functionalities.

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The Top 10 AI sites for Virtual Assistants, Organization and Productivity

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Top 10 AI Sites for Entertainment and Leisure

In today’s world, it’s important to take a break from work and indulge in some entertainment and leisure activities. Thanks to AI technology, there are now numerous websites that can help you find the perfect way to unwind. Here are the top 10 AI sites for entertainment and leisure:

  1. Netflix: This popular streaming service uses AI algorithms to suggest movies and TV shows based on your viewing history.
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With these AI-powered sites, you are on your way to relax and enjoy your free time! Give them a whirl!

Apple AirTags make it easy to track and find your misplaced stuff like keys, wallets, purses, backpacks, luggage, and more.

However, if you’re new to AirTags, one question is, are AirTags worth it for runners? If you’re wondering the same, read on because this article is for you!

Although you can use an AirTag while running, runners have better alternatives that are more effective for location tracking during a run.

In this article, I explore topics such as using an AirTag for running, can you share an AirTag’s location while running, and much more.

image of people running a marathon with a title that reads are AirTags worth it for runners
AirTags are great at tracking stuff but might not be the best option for runners.

Can I Use An AirTag For Running?

You can use an AirTag for running, but there are some caveats. Apple recommends to not track people with an AirTag. An AirTag’s location can’t be shared using Family Sharing, and you can only register an AirTag with one Apple ID.

image of an Apple AirTag and Find My app on an iPhone and a group of three runners
Apple recommends to not track people with an AirTag.

If you’re a seasoned runner like me, using an AirTag for running appears to be a feasible lightweight tracking alternative to running with your iPhone. But there are caveats you need to consider before tossing one into your shorts pocket and heading out on your next run.

Unlike Apple’s other products, an AirTag’s location can’t be shared with someone else through Apple’s Family Sharing feature. This limitation is down to the fact that an AirTag can only be registered against one Apple ID.

Something else to consider is that Apple also doesn’t recommend using an AirTag to track someone. Apple recommends using other products like Apple Watch to track the location of someone, and let’s face it – as runners, we all want to know our pace too.

Pack of 4 Apple AirTags

Apple Watch Ultra (GPS + Cellular)

Can You Share An AirTag’s Location While Running?

Since an AirTag is linked to one Apple ID, it prevents you from sharing its location using Family Sharing while running.

image of AirTag registration process linking the AirTag to your Apple ID
At registration, an AirTag is linked to your Apple ID.

Apple’s Family Sharing feature allows you and up to five other family members to share access to its services like Apple Music or an iCloud storage plan. You can even help locate each other’s missing devices with Family Sharing, however, Family Sharing does not support the sharing of AirTags.

Are AirTags Good For Long Distance?

Technically an AirTag will work anywhere in the world provided that its Bluetooth signal can be found by a nearby Apple device. 

When it comes to AirTags working long distance, the bottom line is AirTags work well from far away, but only if you’re in a part of the world where Apple devices are more common.

Additionally, when it comes to using Apple’s Precision Finding features, not all countries support Ultra Wideband and are subject to international regulatory requirements.

Will An AirTag Work In The Middle Of Nowhere?

Should you happen to be running in the middle of nowhere or perhaps in a location where no one passes, its unlikely that your AirTag location will be trackable.

AirTags work at their best when used in densely populated areas. If someone with an Apple device passes by your AirTag and it can send that passing Apple device a Bluetooth signal, your AirTag’s location will be visible from the Find My app.

Do AirTags Ever Run Out Of Battery?

An AirTag’s battery will run out after about one year of daily use. However, changing an AirTag’s battery is an easy process.

image of an AirTag's battery life in the Find My app
With the Find My app you can check an AirTag’s battery life.

An AirTag battery will eventually die, and unlike most of Apple’s other products, you can’t charge an AirTag. Therefore, this means when the battery becomes low or does eventually run out, you’re going to have to change it yourself.

Fortunately, an AirTag uses a single CR2032 lithium 3V coin battery as its power source. This battery type is common and can be found in many popular stores like Walmart, Target or even on Amazon.

Frequently Asked Questions

Hopefully, I have answered all of your questions on, are AirTags worth it for runners. However, you may still have other questions surrounding Apple AirTags. If you do, below, I answer some common frequently asked questions or check out one of my other articles like cool AirTag uses.

How heavy is an AirTag?

An AirTag weighs 0.39 ounces.

How big is an AirTag?

An AirTag is 1.26 inches in diameter and has a height of 0.31 inches.

Can AirTags get wet?

AirTags are water resistant.

Final Thoughts On Are AirTags Worth It For Runners?

So, in conclusion. Are AirTags worth it for runners? In my opinion, they’re not. There is romance in just popping one into your pocket and heading out, but unless you’re running in a populated area, your location update isn’t going to happen often.

Being unable to use Apple’s Family Sharing with an AirTag is a huge disadvantage. Better Apple products are available for runners, like the Apple Watch or an iPhone.


Affiliate disclaimer. We may receive an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you if you purchase a product after clicking on one of our links. This doesn’t affect our editorial independence.

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Welcome to our blog dedicated to the exploration of captivating destinations around the world. Join us as we embark on a virtual journey to discover the beauty, culture, and unique experiences that different corners of the globe have to offer. From pristine beaches and vibrant cities to breathtaking landscapes and cultural treasures, our blog is your passport to wanderlust. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler, an aspiring adventurer, or simply seeking inspiration for your next trip, we’ll guide you through enchanting destinations and help you plan unforgettable experiences.

  1. Exotic Escapes: Unveiling Hidden Gems and Off-the-Beaten-Path Destinations
    • Discover lesser-known destinations that are off the beaten path, away from the crowds. We’ll showcase remote islands, secluded mountain retreats, and culturally rich towns that offer a unique and authentic travel experience. Immerse yourself in the local culture, uncover hidden gems, and create memories in these extraordinary locations.

If you’re an Apple user and want to keep track of all your stuff, owning an AirTag is a must. But what makes them phenomenal is their long-lasting battery life.

If you’re new to AirTags, or perhaps considering buying some, one question you might be curious about is, do AirTags have lithium batteries? Fear not, because I have the answer in this article.

AirTags come with a Panasonic CR2032 3V lithium coin cell battery out of the box. The CR2032 lithium-ion battery is the go-to choice when powering small electronic devices such as car key FOBs, calculators, watches, fitness trackers and medical devices.

In this article, I explore topics like does an AirTag have a lithium battery, whether you can charge an AirTag battery, and much more.

image of an AirTag and a woman with 5 lithium cr2032 batteries in her hand and a title that reads do AirTags have lithium batteries
AirTags have an integrated CR2032 lithium battery.

Does An AirTag Come With A Battery?

When you buy an AirTag, it comes with a pre-installed Panasonic CR2032 battery. It comes with some user and warranty documentation in the box too.

image of what is inside an AirTag box
New AirTags come with a battery installed.

If you decide to shell out $29 for a new glossy white and polished stainless steel AirTag, here’s what you can expect for your hard-earned cash. 

Upon opening the sleek packaging, it will reveal a few informational documents. Pushing those to one side, you will find the AirTag all neatly wrapped in plastic. Removing the plastic serves two functions, first, it exposes the stainless steel face (which can easily be scratched), and second, it activates the pre-installed lithium battery that comes with an AirTag – and that’s it.

Unfortunately, an AirTag does not come with an extra battery included in the box, nor any accessory for attaching the AirTag to something.

Pack of 4 Apple AirTags

Single Apple AirTag

How Long Will An AirTag Battery Last?

Apple has said that you can expect an AirTag battery to last about one year before needing to replace it. That said, an AirTag’s battery life will vary depending on its use.

How you use an AirTag and the features you use can affect an Apple AirTag’s battery life. Frequently pinging its location in the Find My app will affect how long the battery will last. Other things like environmental conditions and the battery brand also play a part in how long a battery will last.

How To Check The Charge Of An AirTag Battery

Knowing how much charge your Apple AirTag battery has is essential when tracking your stuff. Imagine how annoyed you would be only to find that the battery has died. Checking an AirTag’s battery charge is easily done in four simple steps.

image of an AirTag's battery life within the Find My app
AirTag battery life icon in the Find My app.

Below I highlight four simple steps on how to check the charge of your AirTag battery. Checking the charge of your AirTag’s battery is an easy task, here’s how:

  1. Open the Find My app.
  2. Tap on the Items tab.
  3. Next, tap on the AirTag’s name.
  4. Next, check the battery icon level under the AirTag’s name.

Can I Recharge My Lithium AirTag Battery?

Unlike many of Apple’s other products, you can’t recharge the lithium battery within an AirTag.

The absence of a charging port means your only option is to replace the battery in an AirTag when it dies. Those familiar with Apple’s Watch charger might think it can charge an AirTag’s battery, but despite being of similar size, and shape, it’s unable to recharge the battery.

The good news is that changing an AirTag’s battery is very easy – you don’t even need to visit your nearest Apple Store! Here’s how you do it:

How to remove and replace your lithium AirTag battery.
  1. Ensure the silver stainless steel battery cover is facing up.
  2. Next, press down on the cover and rotate counterclockwise.
  3. Next, remove the cover and battery.
  4. Next, insert a new CR2032 battery positive side facing up.
  5. Next, replace the cover making sure that it aligns with the AirTag.
  6. Lastly, rotate the cover clockwise until it stops.

Note: If you do not hear a sound indicating that the new battery is connected, repeat step 4.

How Much Do Replacement AirTag Batteries Cost?

Even though AirTag lithium batteries last about one year, the cost to replace one is still very cheap. AirTag batteries are available in many popular large box stores, grocery stores, and online retail stores and only cost a few bucks each.

image of an open AirTag so you can see the Panasonic CR2032 battery inside
Replacing an AirTag’s lithium CR2032 battery is inexpensive.

Let’s dig a little deeper into what a CR2032 lithium battery is. A lithium coin battery is typically identified with a C. Next up is its shape. A round battery is typically identified with the letter R. Next is the battery diameter in millimeters, in our case 20. And lastly, there is the battery height again in millimeters 3.2 or our case 32 – giving us CR2032.

If you need to replace your AirTag’s battery or want extra batteries, below you’ll find the most popular CR2032 lithium battery choices for your AirTag.

Top tech tip: Apple do not recommend using a CR2032 battery with a bitterant coating in an AirTag since the alignment of the coating in relation to the battery contacts may affect its operation.

Panasonic CR2032 Batteries

Energizer CR2032 Batteries

Frequently Asked Questions

Hopefully, I have answered all of your questions on, do AirTags have lithium batteries. However, you may still have other questions surrounding Apple AirTags. If you do, below, I answer some common frequently asked questions.

What it a bitterant coating?

A bitterant coating is a chemical used to make things taste and smell bitter, some small batteries like a CR2032 have them.

Can you fly with an AirTag?

You can fly with an AirTag since the battery only contains 0.1 grams of lithium, which falls below the FAA’s limit.

When should I replace my AirTag battery?

You should replace your AirTag battery every year.

Final Thoughts On Do AirTags Have Lithium Batteries

So, in conclusion. Do AirTags have lithium batteries? Yes. An AirTag is powered by a single, user-replaceable CR2032 lithium battery. A CR2032 battery typically only contains 0.1 grams of lithium, making AirTags safe for flying. After activating an AirTag, you can expect the battery to last around one year before it needs replacing. Replacing a battery is easily and doesn’t require a trip to the Apple store.


Affiliate disclaimer. We may receive an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you if you purchase a product after clicking on one of our links. This doesn’t affect our editorial independence.

The Samsung Galaxy SmartTag and SmartTag+ make it easy to find and track things like your keys, wallets, purses, backpacks, and more.

If you’re new to SmartTags, one question often asked is, can SmartTags take pictures? If you’re wondering the same, read on because this article is for you!

SmartTags can’t take pictures. Both SmartTag and SmartTag+ lack a camera and lens within their product design.

In this article, I explore what a Samsung Galaxy SmartTag and SmartTag+ can see and much more.

image of a Samsung Galaxy SmartTag+ and a camera icon with a title that reads can SmartTags take pictures
Galaxy SmartTag and SmartTag+ don’t have a camera and lens.

Can SmartTags Take Pictures?

SmartTags can’t take pictures. Neither the SmartTag nor the SmartTag+ has a built-in camera or lens.

What’s inside a Samsung Galaxy SmartTag+

According to Samsung’s Galaxy SmartTag and SmartTag+ Technical Specifications, no components listed within the specification indicate that a SmartTag can take pictures either on photographic film or digitally. 

Samsung Galaxy SmartTag (1 Pack)

Samsung Galaxy SmartTag+ (2 Pack)

What Can a SmartTag See?

A Samsung Galaxy SmartTag cannot see anything. Since SmartTag and SmartTag+ don’t have a live camera feed, they cannot see what is happening around them.

As well as not being unable to make and take digital images like a camera, the SmartTag and SmartTag+ cannot be used to create a video stream either.

Through the support of hundreds of millions of Samsung Galaxy device owners, SmartTag’s purpose is to track your misplaced stuff. While you can see a Galaxy SmartTag’s location geographically on a map, no feature enables you to see a live video feed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Hopefully, I have answered the question, can SmartTags take pictures? However, you may still have other questions surrounding Samsung Galaxy SmartTags. If you do, below I have answered some common frequently asked questions, or check out one of our other articles like cool SmartTag ideas.

Can you turn off an Samsung Galaxy SmartTag?

You can turn off a Samsung Galaxy SmartTag by removing its battery.

Do Samsung Galaxy SmartTags come with adhesive?

Samsung Galaxy SmartTags do not come with an adhesive backing.

Are SmartTags GPS?

SmartTags do not use GPS.

Final Thoughts On Can SmartTags Take Pictures

So, in conclusion. Can SmartTags take pictures? No. Neither the Samsung Galaxy SmartTag nor SmartTag+ can take pictures. SmartTags lack the components like a camera and lens associated with devices that can take pictures or produce live video streams. Despite not being able to take pictures, SmartTags make an awesome tech gift for the Samsung Galaxy owner in your life.


Affiliate disclaimer. We may receive an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you if you purchase a product after clicking on one of our links. This doesn’t affect our editorial independence.

Apple AirTags makes it super easy to find and track stuff like your keys, wallets, luggage, backpacks, and more.

If you’re new to AirTags, or perhaps considering buying some, one question you might be curious about is, does an AirTag need Wifi? Fear not because I have the answer in this article.

AirTags don’t need WiFi. They rely on Bluetooth to communicate with nearby Apple devices that are within a range of about 33 feet (10 meters).

In this article, I explore does an AirTag need Wifi to work, how does an AirTag work without WiFi, and much more.

image of an Apple AirTag and a wifi logo with a title that reads does an AirTag need wifi
Apple AirTag Bluetooth tracker.

Does An AirTag Need WiFi To Work?

An AirTag does not need Wifi, nor an internet connection to track the location of your things. However, an AirTag relies on the Find My app to display the location of your things. To enjoy the best app experience, you’ll need to turn your WiFi your on.

image of an Apple AirTag and its location displayed on the Find My app on an iPhone
Apple Find My app.

Rather than using WiFi, AirTags communicate using Bluetooth signals. Bluetooth works at its best when there is a clear line of sight. And since AirTags do not use a cellular service, you should know that obstacles such as buildings, walls, and metal can have an impact on how effective and strong a Bluetooth signal is.

Pack of 4 Apple AirTags

Single Apple AirTag

How Does An AirTag Work Without WiFi?

An AirTag works without WiFi by send anonymous, secure Bluetooth signals to nearby Apple devices on the Find My network. These devices then send the AirTag’s location to iCloud so the AirTag can be seen on the Find My app.

image of a man looking for something under a sofa and an image of Apple Precision Finding on an iPhone
An AirTag will lead you straight to your missing stuff.

If an AirTag is no longer within Bluetooth range of your device, it will leverage other Apple Bluetooth devices on the Apple Find My network and use those devices to broadcast its location.

If your AirTag is close to you, your Apple device, using Precision Finding, will lead you straight to it. Precision Finding uses Ultra Wideband technology to provide spacial and directional information on supported Apple devices.

AirTag Precision Finding
Apple uses Ultra Wideband technology for Precision Finding.

However, if your AirTag is not near, your AirTag can also be put into Lost Mode, just like other Apple products. When your AirTag has been found by other Apple devices close by, you will immediately receive a notification of its whereabouts. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Hopefully, I have answered all of your questions on, does an AirTag need WiFi. However, you may still have other questions surrounding Apple AirTags. If you do, below, I answer some common frequently asked questions or check out one of my other articles like best AirTag ideas.

Do AirTags work offline?

AirTags use Bluetooth and do not need an internet connection to track things.

Do AirTags use cellular data?

AirTags use an efficient, so you don’t need to worry about cellular data.

Does an AirTag use Ultra Wideband?

AirTags are built using the Apple-designed U1 chip that has Ultra Wideband technology.

Can you disable an AirTag?

You can disable an AirTag by removing the battery.

Does an AirTag connect to other iPhones?

AirTags can anonymously communicate with nearby iPhones that use the Find My network.

Final Thoughts On Does An AirTag Need WiFi

So, in conclusion. Does an AirTag need WiFi? No. An AirTag does not need WiFi to track things. AirTags communicate with other nearby Apple devices using Bluetooth. However, to view an AirTag’s location, you will need to use the Find My app, and for the best experience possible, you will want to turn your WiFi on for that.


Affiliate disclaimer. We may receive an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you if you purchase a product after clicking on one of our links. This doesn’t affect our editorial independence.

image of the AirTag registration screen with a title that reads do AirTags require Bluetooth to work

Apple’s AirTags make it incredibly simple to locate and track stuff such as your keys, wallets, suitcases, backpacks, and more.

If you’re new to AirTags, or perhaps considering buying some, one question you might be curious about is, do AirTags require Bluetooth to work? Fear not because I have the answer in this article.

An AirTag uses Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) protocol to communicate with nearby Apple devices for proximity finding. An AirTag also uses Bluetooth during the setup process.

image of the AirTag registration screen with a title that reads do AirTags require Bluetooth to work
 Instantly connect your AirTag using Bluetooth during setup.

Do AirTags Need Bluetooth?

At its core, an AirTag needs Bluetooth to send secure signals to nearby Apple devices in the Find My network for proximity finding.

If your AirTag is no longer within Bluetooth range of your device, it will use other Apple devices through the Bluetooth protocol in the Apple Find My network and use those devices to broadcast location data.

In addition to proximity finding and tracking, an AirTag depends on connecting to Apple devices via Bluetooth during the setup and pairing process, (typically your iPhone, iPad or iPod Touch) since there is no USB or USB-C AirTag cable port for connectivity.

Pack of 4 Apple AirTags

Single Apple AirTag

From How Far Away Does Bluetooth Work?

According to Apple, an AirTag must be within a range of approximately 33 feet (10 meters) for a Bluetooth connection to work.

image of an Apple AirTag and its location displayed on the Find My app on an iPhone
Bluetooth Apple AirTag.

Bluetooth works at its best when there is a clear line of sight. And since AirTags do not use a cellular service, you should know that obstacles such as buildings, walls, and metal can have an impact on how effective and strong a Bluetooth signal and range is.

Inside an AirTag you will find a 2.4GHz 5.2 Bluetooth Low Energy antenna. The 2.4 GHz band is ideal for short-range communication, as it has a relatively low power output and is less prone to interference from other wireless devices. Additionally, its wide availability makes it an ideal choice for devices that require global coverage.

Can AirTags Work Without Bluetooth?

To work, AirTags must be paired to an Apple device such as an iPhone, iPad or iPod Touch using Bluetooth.

image to AirTag connect set up screen
An AirTag needs Bluetooth during setup.

Without turning on your device’s Bluetooth feature, you can’t pair an AirTag during setup. Also, an AirTag sends a secure Bluetooth signal to nearby Apple devices within the Find My network. So despite having an Ultra Wideband antenna and an NFC antenna, an AirTag still needs Bluetooth to operate successfully.

Do AirTags Need WiFi?

An AirTag does not require WiFi or an internet connection to track the location of your stuff. However, the Find My app is needed to display the location of your things. To get the most out of the app, you should turn your WiFi on.

image of a man looking for something under a sofa and an image of Apple Precision Finding on an iPhone
Precision Finding can lead you straight to your AirTag.

If your AirTag is close to you, your Apple device, using Precision Finding, will lead you straight to it. Precision Finding uses Ultra Wideband technology instead of WiFi to provide spacial and directional information on supported Apple devices.

However, if your AirTag is not near, your AirTag can also be put into Lost Mode, (just like other Apple products). When your AirTag is found by another Bluetooth Apple device, you will immediately receive a notification of its location. All this tracking and communication happens without your AirTag connecting to WiFi.

Frequently Asked Questions

Hopefully, I have answered all of your questions on, do AirTags require Bluetooth. However, you may still have other questions surrounding Apple AirTags. If you do, below, I answer some common frequently asked questions.

What version of iOS is required to use an AirTag?

An AirTag requires iOS 14.5 or later.

What version of Bluetooth does an AirTag have?

An AirTag uses Bluetooth Low Energy 5.2.

How often does an AirTag transmit a Bluetooth signal?

An AirTag transmits a Bluetooth advertisement every two seconds.

Final Thoughts On Do AirTags Require Bluetooth To Work

So, in conclusion. Do AirTags require Bluetooth to work? Yes. AirTags will not operate without Bluetooth. An AirTag needs Bluetooth as part of the setup process when pairing with an Apple device. Also, an AirTag transmits a secure Bluetooth signal to nearby devices in the Find My network for location finding.


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