Imagine a world where you can keep track of your loved ones with just a tiny, coin-sized device. This is the promise of Apple's AirTag, initially designed to help you find lost or missing items, but now gaining popularity for enhancing personal safety. Parents use them to keep track of their children, and caregivers rely on them for monitoring elderly family members. Yet, despite these benefits, privacy concerns and ethical issues, such as unauthorized tracking, cannot be ignored.

Interestingly, other GPS trackers like Tracki are emerging as alternatives, offering more reliable tracking without the same privacy concerns. 

Let's discuss into the pros and cons of using AirTags for tracking people and explore how alternatives like Tracki GPS Tracker might be a better choice.

What is an AirTag?

An AirTag is a small, round device made by Apple that helps you find lost items. It’s small in size be attached to things like keys, bags, or even placed in a wallet. If you ever lose these items, you can use your iPhone to find them quickly.

How Do AirTags Work and its Technology?

AirTags uses Bluetooth technology to communicate with your iPhone. Here’s a simple explanation of how they work:

• Bluetooth Connection: Each AirTag has a Bluetooth chip that sends a signal your iPhone can pick up to locate the attached item.
• Find My Network: Uses a massive network of Apple devices to help locate your lost item by sending a signal to your iPhone.
• Precision Finding: Guides you directly to your lost item using the iPhone’s sensors and cameras for accurate directions.
• Ultra-Wideband (UWB): Ultra-Wideband is a type of radio technology that AirTags use for Precision Finding. It allows your iPhone to measure the exact distance and direction of your AirTag.

Pros of Using AirTags to Track People

Using AirTags to track people, like your loved ones, can be very helpful. Here are some of the main benefits:

• Attach to a child's backpack or an elderly relative to keep track of their location.
• Quickly find missing individuals using the Find My app.
• Simple setup with iPhone and user-friendly Find My app.
• The battery lasts up to a year with no frequent charging needed.
• Uses Apple’s extensive Find My network for accurate location information.
• Provides real-time location updates and allows location sharing with trusted individuals.

Cons of Using AirTags to Track People

While AirTags have many benefits, there are also several drawbacks to consider. Here are some of the main cons of using AirTags to track people:

• If you use Airtag to track someone it is going to alert them, even if you are just trying to keep tabs on your son or daughter, it will alert them.
  
• Doesn't have history.
  
• Only works in urban areas where cell phones are around
  
• Not always able to find location, may have huge gaps in time before it can send a location.
  
• Dependence on the Apple Devices: Limited functionality with non-Apple devices.
• Potential for False Alarms: May not work effectively in areas with poor network coverage.
• Cost: Additional costs for accessories like cases or covers.
• Safety of the Device: Small and slippery, easily lost without proper accessories.

Secret/Hidden tracking is not possible: If you own an iPhone and it detects an AirTag that is moving with you, your phone may alert you with a notification saying "AirTag Found Moving with You." This feature is designed to prevent Secret/Hidden tracking in that case you can use GPS Tracker.

Why Use Tracki GPS Tracker as an Alternative to AirTags?

While AirTags are popular for tracking items, the Tracki GPS Tracker is another excellent option, especially for tracking people. Here are some reasons why you might choose a Tracki GPS Tracker over an AirTag:

1. Wider Compatibility

• Works with Any Device: Tracki GPS Tracker app works with both Apple and Android devices. This means you don’t need to have an iPhone or other Apple products to use it. You can track your loved ones using any smartphone or tablet.
• Universal Coverage: Unlike AirTags, which work best with Apple’s Find My network, Tracki GPS Tracker uses LTE GPS technology. This allows it to work anywhere in the world, not just where there are Apple devices nearby.

2. Better Accuracy and Reliability 

• Precise GPS Tracking: Tracki uses GPS, Wi-Fi, and mobile networks to provide accurate real-time tracking. This makes it more reliable in areas with fewer Apple devices or poor Bluetooth coverage.
• Real-Time Location Updates: Tracki gives you real-time updates on the location of the person or item you are tracking. This is especially useful in emergencies or when you need to find someone quickly.

3. Enhanced Safety Features

• Emergency Alerts: Tracki GPS Tracker has an SOS button that can send an emergency alert to the location. This is a great feature for kids or elderly family members who might need help quickly.
• Geofencing: You can set up safe zones or geofences with Tracki. If the person or item you are tracking leaves these zones, you will get an alert. This helps you keep track of your loved ones and know if they go somewhere unexpected.

4. Long Battery Life and Durability

• Extended Battery Life: Tracki GPS Tracker has a longer battery life. Depending on the settings, the battery can last from several days to weeks. This means less frequent charging and more reliable tracking.
• Durable Design: Tracki is designed to be tough and durable. It can withstand rough handling and harsh weather conditions, making it suitable for outdoor use.

5. Affordable and Cost-Effective

• Reasonable Price: Tracki GPS Tracker is reasonably priced, making it an affordable option for families. While it may require a small monthly subscription fee for the GPS service, the overall cost is still competitive.
• No Need for Additional Accessories: Unlike AirTags, which often require additional accessories like keychains or holders, Tracki comes with everything you need to start tracking right away. This can save you money on extra purchases.

6. Privacy and Security

• Better Control and Security: Tracki allows you to control who can see the location data. This helps protect your privacy and ensures that only trusted people can access the tracking information.
• Less Risk of Unauthorized Tracking: Tracki is less likely to be used for unauthorized tracking because it is not as discreet as AirTags. This makes it a safer option for ethical tracking purposes.

Conclusion

In a world where keeping track of loved ones is just a click away, Apple's AirTag offers a convenient solution for parents and caregivers, enhancing safety and peace of mind. Originally designed to find lost items, AirTags are affordable, easy to use, and offer high-precision tracking through the Find My network. However, they come with privacy concerns, legal implications, and the risk of unauthorized tracking. 

For a more versatile and secure option, the Tracki GPS Tracker provides wider compatibility, better accuracy, real-time updates, and enhanced safety features without the same privacy issues. Whether you choose AirTags or Tracki, using these devices responsibly and ethically ensures the safety and privacy of your loved ones.