Xiaomi’s Key Tracker Clips Without a Case
▼ Summary
– The Xiaomi Tag is Xiaomi’s first Bluetooth tracker, featuring an elongated design with an integrated metal loop for easy attachment without an extra case.
– It is compatible with both Apple’s Find My and Google’s Find Hub networks, but users must choose one during setup and cannot use both simultaneously.
– Powered by a replaceable CR2032 battery lasting up to a year, it has an IP67 rating for dust and water resistance and includes NFC for sharing contact details if found.
– A key limitation is the lack of ultra wideband (UWB) functionality, so locating it precisely relies on audible alerts when nearby instead of precise tracking.
– It is positioned as a cheaper alternative to Apple’s AirTag, priced at approximately $18 for a single unit or $61 for a four-pack, compared to $29 for one AirTag.
Xiaomi has entered the competitive Bluetooth tracker market with its new Xiaomi Tag, offering a versatile and affordable alternative to popular options like the Apple AirTag. The device features a unique elongated design with a built-in metal loop, allowing users to attach it directly to keyrings, bags, or carabiners without purchasing an additional accessory case. This thoughtful design choice enhances its practicality right from the start.
The tracker is compatible with two major ecosystems, though not simultaneously. During the initial setup, users must choose between Apple’s Find My network or Google’s Find Hub network and its corresponding mobile app. This dual compatibility broadens its appeal, catering to both iOS and Android device owners. Power comes from a standard, user-replaceable CR2032 coin cell battery, which Xiaomi states can last for up to a year. The device is also rated IP67 for dust and water resistance, meaning it can withstand temporary immersion in water, adding to its durability for everyday use.
A notable feature is the inclusion of NFC capabilities. If someone finds a lost item with the Xiaomi Tag attached, they can tap their phone against it to access contact information the owner has pre-loaded, facilitating a quicker return without needing a specific app.
However, there is a significant technological trade-off. Unlike Apple’s AirTag, the Xiaomi Tag does not include ultra-wideband (UWB) technology. UWB allows for precise, directional finding, showing exact distance and direction to a lost item on your phone screen. Without it, locating the Xiaomi Tag relies primarily on triggering an audible alert from the device once you are within Bluetooth range. For users who frequently misplace items in cluttered spaces, this lack of precision tracking could be a limitation.
The primary advantage is cost. Positioned as a budget-friendly alternative, the Xiaomi Tag is priced at approximately $18 for a single unit or around $61 for a pack of four. This undercuts Apple’s second-generation AirTag, which retails for $29 individually or $99 for a four-pack. For consumers who do not require ultra-precise UWB tracking and appreciate the built-in attachment loop, the Xiaomi Tag presents a compelling value proposition in the growing market for smart item finders.
(Source: The Verge)
