Apple Introduces 'Share Item Location' Feature On IOS 18.2 To Help Airlines Find Lost Bags"

Apple will release an update to the Find My feature in iOS 18.2 (photo: x @HuseyinUsta)

JAKARTA - Apple will release an update to the Find My feature in iOS 18.2 that allows users to share their AirTag locations with others, including airlines. This feature aims to facilitate tracking of important items, such as lost baggage, especially in airport areas.

So far, AirTag is limited to the owner's account so it cannot be easily shared. However, the new feature "Share Item Location" will allow users to share AirTag locations or Find My network accessories with trusted people, including airlines, which can help quickly find baggage.

More than 15 airlines, including Air Canada, British Airways, Delta Air Lines, Qantas, and Virgin Atlantic, will support this feature in the coming months. Apple said that only a handful of airline staff were allowed to access location information and they had to go through the authentication process.

This feature has a time and security limit; the location link will automatically expire after seven days or can be terminated at any time by the owner. This link can be created via Find My on iPhone, iPad, and Mac, with the view of the interactive map updating the latest location.

"The Find My and AirTag networks have become a very useful combination for users during travel. With the Share Item Location feature, we provide new ways to share information with third parties such as airlines while maintaining user privacy," said Eddy Cue, Apple's Senior Vice President of Services.

This feature will be available to iPhone Xs devices and newer models in iOS 18.2 updates and can also be accessed via Apple's latest beta OS cycle.