AirTags are a convenient way to keep track of important items, such as keys or luggage, by attaching a small device to them. However, there is a risk of these devices being used for malicious purposes, such as tracking someone without their knowledge. While iPhone users have a built-in way to detect unknown AirTags, Android users were initially left without a solution. Apple released an app called Tracker Detect on the Google Play Store to address this issue, and Google has also launched its own Find My Device network with similar features.
To use Tracker Detect on Android, simply download the app from the Google Play Store for free and grant it access to your Bluetooth. Then, you can scan for nearby AirTags that may be following you. If the app detects an AirTag nearby, it will appear as “Unknown AirTag,” indicating that it may be tracking you. If an AirTag has been following you for at least 10 minutes, the app will allow you to play a sound from the AirTag to help you locate it physically.
If you discover an AirTag that is tracking you, there are steps you can take to address the situation. You can tap the AirTag with your phone to view its serial number, which may be helpful if you need to contact law enforcement. Additionally, you can disable the AirTag by removing the battery, which will notify the owner that the tracker has been disabled. However, Tracker Detect lacks some features available on iPhones, such as automatic background scans, so users must manually scan for AirTags each time.
Overall, Tracker Detect is a useful tool for Android users to detect and address any potential tracking with AirTags. By following the steps outlined in the app, users can identify unknown AirTags that may be following them and take appropriate action to disable the tracker if necessary. With Google’s Find My Device network also providing support for this feature, Android users now have more options to protect their privacy and security when it comes to tracking devices.
