Android Takes on AirTags: New Bluetooth Trackers Raise the Bar

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Android users can now celebrate as new Bluetooth trackers hit the market, offering capabilities that rival or exceed Apple's AirTags. Leading this innovation are two prominent players - Chipolo and Pebblebee - who have launched dedicated tracking devices for the Android ecosystem.

Chipolo's latest offerings include the One Point fob ($22) and Card Point ($28), designed specifically for Android users. The One Point, perfect for keys and other items, features a user-replaceable battery lasting about a year. The Card Point, ideal for wallets, maintains an ultra-thin profile but comes with a non-replaceable battery. Both devices are splashproof and can be detected from up to 200 feet away.

Recent testing reveals impressive performance from Pebblebee's lineup, including the Clip, Card, and Tag Universal. These devices have demonstrated exceptional accuracy, with location updates typically occurring within an hour, even in low-traffic areas. The precision is remarkable - locations are pinpointed to specific street corners rather than general areas.

Google's Find My Device network has undergone substantial improvements, now supporting over a billion Android devices. A Google spokesperson noted, "We recently rolled out enhancements to the Find My Device network that improved locating lost items. Users are seeing an improved device locating experience."

The tracking system also prioritizes privacy, implementing Android-wide unknown tracker protection. This feature allows users to manage their privacy settings without additional apps. The interface now supports biometric unlocking and landscape orientation.

Looking ahead, the Android tracking ecosystem appears promising. Google continues developing new features, with potential additions like high-precision UWB tracking for AR-assisted finding. While the current selection of trackers remains limited, the performance and reliability match or exceed AirTag capabilities in many scenarios.

For Android users who have long awaited a robust tracking solution, these new devices finally deliver on that promise. With competitive pricing, strong accuracy, and growing network coverage, the Android tracking ecosystem has effectively closed the gap with Apple's offering.