Apple AirTag 4-Pack: Save $35 on the 1st Gen Tracker Now!

For iPhone users prone to misplacing belongings, a little peace of mind is now more affordable. A four-pack of first-generation Apple AirTags is currently available for $64, a significant discount from the original price of $99. This deal, available through Amazon and other retailers, brings the cost per AirTag down to around $16, a price point rarely seen.

The AirTag, introduced by Apple in 2021, is a small Bluetooth tracker designed to help locate lost items. It leverages Apple’s extensive “Find My” network – comprised of hundreds of millions of Apple devices worldwide – to anonymously pinpoint the location of tagged objects. Unlike some trackers that rely on a direct Bluetooth connection to a user’s phone, AirTags can be located even when out of Bluetooth range, as long as they are near an Apple device participating in the Find My network.

The core functionality relies on Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) technology. When an AirTag is within range of an iPhone, iPad, or Mac, it securely transmits its location to Apple’s iCloud servers. This location data is then accessible to the owner through the Find My app. Apple has emphasized privacy in the design of the AirTag system, stating that location data is end-to-end encrypted and anonymous. The system is designed so that only the owner of the AirTag can see its location.

Beyond basic location tracking, AirTags offer several features to aid in recovery. Users can trigger a sound on the AirTag to help locate it when nearby. For iPhones equipped with Apple’s Ultra Wideband (UWB) technology – starting with the iPhone 11 – “Precision Finding” provides turn-by-turn directions and distance indicators to guide the user directly to the AirTag’s location. This feature utilizes the UWB chip to determine the precise direction and distance to the AirTag, even through obstacles.

While this deal applies to the first-generation AirTag, Apple released a second-generation model in January 2024. The newer version boasts several improvements, including a U2 chip for enhanced connectivity and a louder speaker. However, the price difference makes the first-generation AirTag a compelling option for budget-conscious consumers. The U2 chip is designed to improve compatibility with Apple’s Ultra Wideband technology and provide more reliable Bluetooth connections. The louder speaker makes it easier to locate an AirTag using the sound-alert feature, particularly in noisy environments.

The AirTag’s simplicity is a key strength. Pairing an AirTag with an Apple device is a straightforward process, requiring only a single tap. However, it’s important to note that AirTags are designed exclusively for the Apple ecosystem. They require an iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch running iOS or iPadOS 14.5 or later to set up and use. Android users are unable to utilize AirTags.

Powering the AirTag is a standard CR2032 coin cell battery, which Apple estimates will last for approximately one year under typical usage. Replacing the battery is a simple process, requiring only a twist to open the battery compartment. CR2032 batteries are widely available and inexpensive, minimizing the ongoing cost of ownership.

The current sale price of $64 for a four-pack represents a 35% discount, bringing the price close to a record low. While the newer second-generation AirTags offer incremental improvements, the first-generation model remains a highly effective tracking solution, particularly for those already invested in the Apple ecosystem. For users who frequently misplace items like keys, wallets, or luggage, a four-pack of AirTags can provide a valuable layer of security and peace of mind. The availability of this deal is currently confirmed at Amazon, Target, and HSN, with prices potentially fluctuating.

It’s worth noting that while AirTags are effective tracking devices, they are not foolproof. The accuracy of location tracking depends on the density of Apple devices in the surrounding area. In remote locations with limited Apple device coverage, the AirTag’s ability to report its location may be reduced. AirTags are not designed to prevent theft, but rather to aid in recovery after an item has been lost or stolen.