Apple releases Tracker Detect app on Google Play to let Android users help find lost AirTags

After announcing security updates and an Android app for tracking their AirTags in June, Apple is today launching the Tracker Detect app for Android users on Google Play.

The app release follows the June update which changed the window in which an unattached AirTag will alert people once moved. The AirTag will chirp at a randomised time between 8 and 24 hours when moved if it’s no longer with its owner.

The Tracker Detect app is fairly functional, with the description saying it will allow users to both scan for unattached tags, then find them by activating the alert sound on the tags. If a tag is found, the app tells you how to disable it by removing the battery, or find out more about it.

“Tracker Detect looks for item trackers that are separated from their owner and that are compatible with Apple’s Find My network. These item trackers include AirTag and compatible devices from other companies. If you think someone is using AirTag or another device to track your location, you can scan to try to find it.”

In an article published by C-Net for the announcement of the app, Apple recommended that anyone finding an unattached Air Tag and feels their safety is threatened they should contact law enforcement. 

It’s a great move for Apple adding an Android app, giving these innovative little trackers broader support and addressing security concerns more broadly. Speaking about the Tracker Detect app, Apple said

“AirTag provides industry leading privacy and security features and today we are extending new capabilities to Android devices,” An Apple spokesperson said in a statement. “Tracker Detect gives Android users the ability to scan for an AirTag or supported Find My enabled item trackers that might be traveling with them without their knowledge. We are raising the bar on privacy for our users and the industry, and hope others will follow.”

The Tracker Detect app is rolling out to Google Play today.