Apple is rolling out a new feature in iOS 18.2 that makes AirTag tracking more versatile by letting users share an AirTag’s location via a link, accessible to anyone with the link. Called “Share Item Location,” this update in Apple’s Find My app is designed to help track lost items, especially when traveling. The feature allows users to send a unique link to anyone who needs access to track the missing item. For instance, if you lose your luggage, you could share its AirTag location with an airline, enabling them to follow updates on its location. Apple also added an automatic refresh on the shared page to display the latest movements and timestamps, providing a detailed and up-to-date tracking experience.

The initial rollout includes partnerships with over 15 airlines such as Delta, Lufthansa, and Air Canada. These airlines will use Apple’s system to securely accept these location links to help locate missing or delayed bags. Access to each link is limited to authorized personnel, who must authenticate via Apple Account (formerly Apple ID) or partner email to view it, ensuring privacy and security are upheld. Additionally, the link expires after seven days or once you retrieve your item, but you can also manually stop sharing if needed.

This new feature is available in most global regions on iOS 18.2 beta, with plans to launch publicly by December. It builds on Apple’s consistent efforts to expand Find My’s capabilities for travelers and offer an extra layer of support for lost items, aligning with Apple’s goal of making AirTags more versatile and collaborative for real-world use cases. The development will also benefit users of SITA, a major luggage tracking system that’s adding support for Apple’s Share Item Location feature to provide enhanced tracking for frequent flyers.