Malaysia was recently shocked by the disappearance of Albertine Leo Jia Hui. Thankfully, she has been found safe, highlighting the need for better child safety.
Many parents are exploring innovative ways to ensure their children’s security. One device that has gained attention is Apple’s AirTags. Originally designed for tracking personal items, parents are now considering its potential for monitoring their children’s whereabouts.
What is Apple AirTag?
Apple AirTag is a compact, disc-shaped tracking device designed to attach to valuable items such as keys, luggage, backpacks, or even your pet’s collar.
Once an AirTag is attached to an item, you can monitor its real-time location on your iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, Mac, or Apple Watch (watchOS 8 or later) via the Find My app. The AirTag uses Bluetooth technology to connect to nearby Apple devices, which then relay the location data to the Find My app.
For parents, AirTags can be particularly useful for tracking their child’s belongings, such as a backpack, jacket, or bike keys. Additionally, they can be used to keep tabs on personal items like phones or car keys.
If an item goes missing, you can activate “Lost Mode” in the Find My app. This feature notifies anyone with an iPhone who comes within Bluetooth range of the item’s location, allowing them to assist in its recovery. AirTags can also be shared with family members, enabling everyone to track their personal belongings.
While most people use Apple AirTag to track their personal belongings, some parents wonder if it can be used to track their kids. Here’s a comprehensive look at how AirTags can be used for child safety, including both the benefits and drawbacks.
Benefits of Using AirTags
Peace of Mind AirTags provide parents with a sense of security, knowing they can track their child’s location. In crowded places like parks or shopping malls, an AirTag can help minimize the risk of your child getting lost and enable you to quickly locate them if they do.
Real-time Location Tracking AirTags offer real-time location tracking, allowing you to see your child’s whereabouts on a map at any given moment. This is particularly useful during long trips or excursions, ensuring your child is safe and within reach.
Ease of Use Setting up an AirTag is straightforward and quick. You can easily attach it to your child’s backpack, jacket, or other belongings, and start tracking their location using your smartphone. The Find My app simplifies the process, making it accessible even for less tech-savvy parents.
Customizable Notifications AirTags allow for customizable notifications. You can set up alerts for specific locations or times, such as receiving a notification if your child leaves the park or school area. This added layer of security keeps you informed about your child’s movements.
Durability and Reliability Built with high-quality materials, AirTags are designed to withstand daily use. Whether attached to a backpack or clothing, they are durable and reliable, ensuring they stay in place and function correctly.
Extended Battery Life The CR2032 battery in an AirTag lasts around a year before needing replacement. This long battery life means you won’t have to worry about constantly recharging the device, making it a dependable tool for daily use.
Drawbacks of Using AirTags
Anti-Stalking Features To prevent misuse, AirTags have anti-stalking mechanisms that cause them to play a sound if separated from their paired device for too long. This feature could be problematic if the AirTag mistakenly triggers an alert, disrupting your child’s routine.
Potential Detection by Predators The Find My app notifies users if an unknown AirTag is moving with them, which could inadvertently help kidnappers detect and disable the AirTag if they abduct your child.
Dependence on Apple Device Proximity AirTags rely on the presence of nearby Apple devices to transmit their location. In areas with fewer Apple users, such as remote locations, the tracking capability is significantly reduced.
No Legal Recourse Apple specifies that AirTags are intended for tracking items, not people. In case of any issues with tracking your child using an AirTag, you won’t have legal recourse against Apple.
Impact on Child Development Overreliance on AirTags for safety can hinder your child’s independence and development. It’s important to balance safety measures with opportunities for your child to learn and grow independently.
Ease of Loss AirTags are small and can be easily lost or misplaced by children. They might also be tempted to share or trade them with friends, reducing their effectiveness as a tracking tool.
Tips for Using AirTags for Kids
If you decide to use AirTags for tracking your child, consider the following tips to maximize their effectiveness:
- Educate Your Child Explain to your child what an AirTag is and how it works. Emphasize that it is a safety tool, not a toy, and should not be removed or shared with others.
- Secure Attachment Attach the AirTag securely to items your child carries regularly, such as their backpack, jacket, or shoes. Consider hiding it in less obvious places to prevent easy removal.
- Monitor Battery Life Regularly check the AirTag’s battery life and replace it when necessary to ensure continuous tracking. You can monitor the battery status via the Find My app.
- Use Multiple AirTags For added security, consider using more than one AirTag. If one is found and removed, the other can still provide tracking information.
- Set Up Custom Alerts Customize the notifications in the Find My app to receive alerts when your child leaves specific areas. This helps you stay informed about their whereabouts and ensures their safety.
- Privacy and Consent Discuss the use of AirTags with your child, ensuring they understand its purpose and agree to its use. Respect their privacy and involve them in safety decisions.
Apple AirTags can be a useful tool for tracking your child’s location, offering peace of mind and real-time updates on their whereabouts. However, it’s important to be aware of their limitations and potential drawbacks. The key is to stay informed and prepared, ensuring your child’s security in various situations.
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Also read: A Ring For Your Fingers With Apple Watch-like Features?
