Apple has introduced a new iOS feature named 'Share Item Location,' enabling users to securely share the location of misplaced items through an AirTag or other Find My-compatible accessories. This feature is now accessible globally as part of the iOS 18.2 public beta and will soon be available for all iPhone Xs and newer models via a free software update.
With Share Item Location, users can effortlessly share the real-time location of their belongings with third parties, such as airlines, streamlining the process of locating lost or delayed items during travel. Eddy Cue, Apple’s Senior Vice President of Services, stated, 'The Find My network and AirTag have demonstrated their effectiveness for users while traveling, offering crucial location data when bags are misplaced or mishandled. Share Item Location introduces a new method for users to easily share this information directly with third parties like airlines, all while safeguarding their privacy.'
How It Works: Users can create a Share Item Location link within the Find My app on their iPhone, iPad, or Mac. Recipients of this link can view the item’s location on an interactive map through a website. The website updates with new location data and timestamps to assist in tracking. Privacy is upheld throughout: the shared location automatically expires after seven days, can be disabled once the item is recovered, and can be stopped by the owner at any time.
Airline Integration for Lost Luggage Support: Apple has partnered with over 15 international airlines to integrate Share Item Location into their customer service operations, including major carriers like Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, British Airways, Air Canada, and Singapore Airlines. By accepting Find My item locations, these airlines aim to enhance baggage recovery for travelers using AirTags in their luggage. More airlines will be added over time.
Apple’s Find My network utilizes Bluetooth technology across a vast, crowdsourced network of over a billion Apple devices to detect and locate missing items. The network is designed with privacy and security as its core principles: all location data is end-to-end encrypted and anonymous, ensuring that neither Apple nor third parties can access a device’s location.
Source link: https://www.khaleejtimes.com
