Apple's Find My Update Helps Airlines Track Lost Luggage with AirTags

Apple's iOS 18.2 update for Find My will include a new feature called Share Item Location, which allows users to share the location of AirTags with other people. This could help airlines track down lost luggage more efficiently.

The feature will let users share the position of an AirTag or a Find My network accessory with someone else they trust, allowing them to retrieve the tagged item if the owner cannot do so themselves.

In theory, this could assist airlines in locating lost luggage within airports or transit systems, increasing the chances of safe returns. Over 15 airlines will support the feature in the coming months, including Air Canada, British Airways, Delta Air Lines, Qantas, and Virgin Atlantic.

For security purposes, only a limited number of people at an airline will have access to view the shared location link, with recipients required to authenticate before viewing. The sharing of the tag is not permanent and can be disabled as soon as it is reunited with its owner. It can also be stopped by the user at any time and will automatically expire after seven days.

A Share Item Location link can be generated from Find My on iPhone, iPad, or Mac and includes an interactive map that updates the location and timestamp of the most recent tag ping.