Apple (AAPL, Financial) is preparing to introduce a feature that can help people find their lost belongings with AirTag by sharing tracking data with airlines. The new feature, compatible with iOS 18.2, will be released in December. It is named the Share Item Location feature, allowing users to share the position of an AirTag or other Find My network assets for a limited time with other people. Delta, United, British Airways, and Air Canada will implement this new tool for airport workers to safely and securely use AirTag tracking information, Apple explained on Monday.
Once activated, users can create a link through the Find My app, which will allow airline personnel to track missing baggage on an interactive map with time stamps. For any given tracking link, the airport employees will have to log in with an Apple account or a related email address. All processes will be secure and private. The feature is available in the public beta version of iOS 18.2 and for iPhone Xs and later models.
The arrival of this gadget is due to increased complaints of delayed or lost luggage. According to SITA, Global Aerospace Skywatch reported that mishandled bags went up post-pandemic, reaching 6 to 9 bags per 1,000 passengers by the year 2023. There are already reports of Airlines encountering passengers using AirTags to locate lost items such as wedding gowns or sports gear, which, in most cases, are left far across states.
Apple wants the feature to be available in other airlines, with United Airlines offering it for some airports and its network later in early 2025.
This article first appeared on GuruFocus.