Apple’s new feature lets airlines track your lost luggage in real time for hassle-free travel: Here’s how
Lost luggage while flying could soon be less stressful thanks to a new tool from Apple. The tech giant has introduced an “Item Location Sharing” feature, allowing users to share the location of AirTags or other Find My network accessories with third parties, including airlines . Initially available in iOS 18.2 public beta, the feature will roll out as a free update for iPhone Xs and newer models.
How to share an item’s location
Through the Find My app on iPhone, iPad, or Mac, users can create a link to share an item’s location. This link shows its real-time location on an interactive map, complete with timestamps for updates. This feature ensures user control by automatically turning off shared locations after items are restored or after seven days. Users can also manually disable the link at any time.
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Apple has partnered with more than 15 major airlines such as Delta, United and Singapore Airlines to integrate this feature into their customer service systems. By the end of 2024, these airlines will support Find My location data to help passengers track delayed or mishandled bags. More airlines are expected to adopt this technology, enhancing global baggage recovery systems.
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The initiative also includes participation from SITA, a leading global air transport technology company. SITA plans to embed this feature into its WorldTracer system, a widely used platform to track lost baggage on more than 500 airlines. The partnership aims to improve efficiency in baggage management while also providing travelers with an easier way to locate their belongings.
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How Apple ensures data security
This feature works within Apple’s existing privacy-focused Find My network. End-to-end encryption and user anonymization ensure that only authorized airline personnel can access location data for tracking purposes. Apple emphasizes that data security remains a top priority, assuring users that information is protected throughout the process.
By streamlining the recovery of lost items, Apple’s Shared Item Location tool brings a new level of convenience to air travelers. With this technology, the frustration of lost luggage may soon be a thing of the past.
