Learn how to use the Precision Finding feature to locate the item attached to your AirTag by taking advantage of the Ultra Wideband chip on the AirTag and your iPhone.
AirTags offer an easy way to keep track of things such as keys, wallets, bags, bikes, etc. While it’s similar to other Bluetooth trackers, it does have something special known as Precision Finding, which offers a very accurate location of the object you’re tracking.
Precision Finding is made possible thanks to Apple’s U1 Ultra Wideband chip inside AirTags and iPhone 11 and newer (except iPhone SE 2nd and 3rd generation). Note that the iPhone 15 and later have a second-generation U2 chip for improved spatial awareness.
The chip on the iPhone uses inputs from its accelerometer, gyroscope, and camera to show you the exact location of the AirTag with sound, visuals, and haptics. It’s to be noted that Precision Finding only works when both devices have the Ultra Wideband chip. Furthermore, it isn’t available in all countries and regions.
Also see: How to share your AirTag with up to five people
Use Precision Finding to locate your AirTag
1) Open the Find My app on your iPhone and go to the Items tab.
2) Select the AirTag you want to locate.
3) Tap Find.
Note that you will see the word “Nearby” if your AirTag is around. Otherwise, your iPhone will instruct you to move around to a different location so it can establish a connection with your AirTag. In case your AirTag is far away, or if you are using an iPad or iPhone without the Ultra Wideband chip, you will see a Directions tile instead of Find.
4) Once near the item, the app will show an arrow pointing in the direction of the AirTag once you start moving around. It will also show things such as approximate distance and tell you if the AirTag is on a different floor.
As you get closer to the lost AirTag, your iPhone will provide haptic feedback and audio alerts telling you that you’re getting close. The UI will automatically exit when you’re very close to the lost AirTag. Remember that you can also tap the speaker icon to have the AirTag make a sound, making it easier to find.
The process to locate other devices using Precision Finding, such as the newest AirPods Pro, is similar.
Check out next: 14 tips to make the most of your AirTags