Apple has introduced a new feature called "share item location" to help users track and recover misplaced items, especially luggage. This feature is available on iPhones with iOS 18.2 public beta and will soon be available as a free update for iPhone Xs and newer models.

With this feature, users can share the location of their AirTags or other Find My network accessories with third parties, such as airlines, to help find lost items during travel. It makes it easier to locate misplaced luggage and other items by sharing their real-time location with people who can assist in the recovery process.

How does "share item location" work?

The new feature helps users find their lost items easily. To use it, users can create a link in the Find My app on their iPhone, iPad, or Mac. When someone receives the link, they can see the item’s current location on a map. The map updates as the item moves, and it also shows when the location was last updated. Once the item is found, the location link is turned off, and users can choose to stop sharing the location at any time.

This feature is very helpful for travellers whose luggage gets lost during flights. Apple has worked with more than 15 big airlines like Delta, United, British Airways, and Singapore Airlines to use the "share item location" feature to help find delayed or lost baggage. By the end of 2024, more airlines are expected to use this feature to help passengers track their luggage.

Apple’s share item location feature follows strict privacy rules to keep users' information safe. It uses end-to-end encryption, which means only authorised people, like airline customer service agents, can see where the item is. This feature helps airlines manage baggage better and gives travellers confidence that their belongings will be found safely.

Steps to find your bag and share item location

  1. Open the Find My App: Go to the Find My app on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
  2. Select the item: Choose the item you want to share the location for (e.g., AirTag or Find My Network accessory).
  3. Generate a shareable link: Tap on "Share Location" to create a link.
  4. Send the link: Share the link with someone, such as a customer service agent at the airline.
  5. Track the item's location: The recipient can see the item’s location on an interactive map.
  6. Deactivate once found: Once the item is recovered, the shared location will be automatically deactivated.

In order to facilitate and secure baggage management, this initiative is also being incorporated into the SITA WorldTracer system, which is utilised by more than 500 airlines worldwide.