Some parents are turning to Apple AirTags – possession trackers primarily used for finding misplaced items – to keep track of their children in the name of safety. While Apple has advised against using AirTags on people, manufacturers have started selling wearable accessories like lanyards, necklaces, bracelets, and watch bands to hold AirTags.
Parents, like Brittney Mesa, a travel blogger from Los Angeles and mother of an 18-month-old boy, believe that their child’s safety is their top priority, especially in public spaces. Mesa pointed out that children can easily get lost in crowded areas, and parents may want to consider using tracking devices like AirTags when their children are old enough to run away.
Android, the leading mobile operating system, has updated its software to notify users of unknown trackers that may have been planted on them. This update allows Android users to scan their surroundings for trackers and take appropriate action if any are found.
Apple designed AirTags to work with their own devices, such as iPhones, iPads, and Apple Watches. However, Apple users may not always be notified if non-Apple trackers are tracing them.
Some parents see AirTags as an added layer of protection and a way to give their children some freedom while still being able to keep tabs on them. Maria, a mother of four from New York, said she uses AirTags to know her children’s whereabouts when they are at the beach or at events. She believes that AirTags help foster independence in children while providing a safety net for parents.
Apple does not endorse using AirTags to track people, stating that the device is intended for locating personal belongings rather than monitoring individuals. They strongly condemn any malicious use of their products.
While some parents find comfort in using AirTags to ensure their children’s safety, it’s important to strike a balance between supervision and allowing children to explore and socialize. AirTags should not be seen as a replacement for proper supervision and caution.
Sources:
– Fox News Digital
– CNET
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