Apple helps airlines track baggage with a software update: what you need to know

A software update will allow Apple AirTag users to share location data with airlines so they can track their luggage. The update includes the Share Item Location feature, which is available in the iOS 18.2 public beta. This allows users to share location data from AirTag or FindMy network accessories with third parties, such as airlines. In the ensuing months, numerous global airlines have agreed to begin accepting FindMy item locations.

How Apple’s FindMy feature works

Soon, owners of iPhone X and newer models will be able to download the free beta version of iOS 18.2. Once updated, users will be able to create a Share My Item link in the Find My app on their iPhone, Mac, or iPad. Then, the person who receives the link can view a website with an interactive map showing the location of the item. The website will be updated as new location data becomes available, adding a timestamp.

To date, the following airlines have agreed to accept Find My Item locations: Aer Lingus, Air Canada, Air New Zealand, Austrian Airlines, British Airways, Brussels Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Eurowings, Iberia, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, Lufthansa, Qantas, Singapore Airlines, Swiss International Air Lines, Turkish Airlines, United, Virgin Atlantic and Vueling. More airlines will join in the long term.

Eddy Cue, Apple’s Senior Vice President of Services, said: “Find My is an essential tool for users around the world to track and find their belongings. The Find My network and AirTag have proven to be a powerful combination for users while traveling, providing valuable location information when luggage is lost or mishandled. With Share Item Location, we want to give users a new way to easily share this information directly with third parties, such as airlines, all while protecting their privacy.”

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