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On April 7, Apple announced that third-party accessories will soon be able to receive support for the "Find My" app. In addition to tracking your own Apple devices, it's now also possible to track select third-party accessories.
With iOS 14.3, iPadOS 14.3, and macOS Big Sur 11.1 or later, users can locate compatible third-party products in the "Items" tab of the Find My app, using an encrypted, anonymous network of hundreds of millions of Apple devices. The company explainedthat devices on the Find My network use secure Bluetooth technology to detect nearby missing items and report their approximate location to the owner.
How to track third-party accessories with Apple's Find My app
First, users must follow the manufacturer's instructions to start the connection process.
- To do this, open the “Find My” app on your iPhone, iPad or iPod touch
- Now tap “Add Object” in the “Objects” tab
Now follow the steps to name the product and link it to your Apple ID. After following the instructions, you'll be able to see the accessory on the map, play a sound when it's nearby, activate Lost Mode, and receive a notification when it's found. The range of features depends on the specific accessory. Future third-party accessories will also be able to use Apple's U1 chip. This is currently available in the iPhone 11 or later, the Apple Watch Series 6, and the HomePod mini. Currently, there are three products compatible with Apple's "Find My" app:
- Belkin SOUNDFORM Freedom True Wireless Earbuds
- VanMoof S3 & X3 e-bikes
- Chipolo ONE Spot
Apple has strict rules for devices that are part of the Find My Network accessory program. This means that all third-party products that wish to participate must adhere to all of the Find My Network's privacy policies. Obtaining a so-called "Works with Apple Find My" license isn't easy. More products will surely follow in the coming months. Finally, a quick note: Please remember to protect your Apple ID with two-factor authentication and keep Bluetooth enabled. (Image: Apple)
