Lost your luggage? Apple to let you share AirTag location with airlines

Apple's AirTag tracking device is getting a major upgrade with a new feature enabling temporary location sharing with others, including airline employees. According to a report by MacRumors, Apple is currently testing the second beta version of iOS 18.2, which includes this new function in the Find My app. This feature allows users to share their AirTag's location with an "airline or a trusted person" for a limited time.

In the Find My app on iOS 18.2, a new option called "Share Item Location" will allow users to create a link that can be sent to anyone, not just trusted contacts. On Apple devices, the link will open the Find My app to show the item's location. For non-Apple devices, the link will open a web page displaying the item's last known location on a map.

The link will automatically expire after a week, or once the lost item has been returned. Users can also track how many people have accessed the link they created, and an additional option, "Show Contact Info," lets users share their phone number and email so that the person who finds the lost item can get in touch.

In September 2023, Apple introduced a feature allowing AirTag location sharing with up to five additional people, making it easier for entire families to track pets, vehicles, or other shared items.