Apple has made good on its WWDC 2020 promise to open its Find My app and network to devices built by the company.
Starting today, third-party devices from companies such as Belkin, Chipolo, and VanMoo will be able to track and locate their devices using the Find My app.
Among those products are the new VanMoff S3 and X3 e-bikes, as well as Belkin’s Soundform Freedom True Wireless earbuds. Chipolo also produces a tracking tag called One Spot, which will ship in June and will also be compatible with Find My.
Later anything can be tracked through the Find My app, as the device can be connected to the key. Apple says that more third-party manufacturers will soon be on board. Earlier this week, Apple released a compatibility app to allow gadget-makers to test their wares.
All the accessories follow the Made for iPhone program, a prerequisite for compatibility with the Find My App. In fact, all compatible products will work with the label “Apple Find My”, as you can see from the image below.
Apple is also announcing a draft specification for silicon manufacturers that will enable more precise tracking via ultra wideband technology that sits within the iPhone 12 and other devices. Ultra wideband technology provides more accurate and directional awareness compared with Bluetooth.
“For more than a decade, our customers have relied on Find My to locate their lost or stolen Apple devices, all while protecting their privacy,” Bob Borchers, Apple’s Worldwide Product Marketing Vice president of a. Newsroom post.
“Now we are bringing powerful search capabilities to more people with Find My Network, one of our most popular services, Find My Network Accessory Program. We’re thrilled to see how Belkin, Chipolo, and OneMoff are using this technology, and can’t wait to see what others make. “
Chris Smith is a freelance technology journalist for a host of UK technical publications, including Trusted Reviews. He is based in South Florida, USA. …
