In the vibrant ecosystem of personal tech, where the quest to keep track of our digital and physical belongings merges, Apple’s AirTag has emerged as the sleek harbinger of the ‘never lose anything ever again’ age.
Ultra-wideband communication is a radio technology focused on precise ranging (measuring the location to an accuracy of 10 cm) between devices.
With its chic design and UWB (Ultra-wideband) technology, it’s like enlisting a homing pigeon with a GPS strapped to its back. However, for those not keen on spending $29 for the privilege of unfailing item recovery, there’s a new player in town: the AIYATO tracker.
Apple’s Certification Speaks Volumes
Hailing from the tech metropolis of Shenzhen, the AIYATO tracker enters the arena with a tempting proposition—affordability without skimping on functionality. With a price tag of about 20 yuan (~$2.5 USD), it’s an attractive alternative for the price-conscious. But what makes AIYATO stand out isn’t just its price. It’s the Apple MFi (Made for iPhone/iPad) certification it boasts, as confirmed by a recent dive into Apple’s MFi Licensed Accessories database.
This certification means that AIYATO is a product that has met the standards set by Apple itself for accessory compatibility. Users can rest assured that the AIYATO tracker has been engineered to work harmoniously with their Apple devices, an assurance that’s often missing in the more affordable corners of tech accessories.
Review
In hand, the AIYATO tracker feels robust, with a textured surface aimed at providing a secure grip and a sense of durability. It’s practical too, featuring a built-in loophole for threading — something the AirTag lacks without an additional accessory purchase.
In terms of size, its 30mm (1.18 inch) by 55mm (2.16 inch) footprint is unobtrusive, and at a mere 4mm (0.15 inch) thick, it’s as pocket-friendly as it is wallet-friendly.
Setting up the AIYATO is refreshingly straightforward. Much like pairing AirPods, a simple button press, a few taps in the iPhone’s Find My app, and the tracker is ready to go, sitting alongside AirTags and other Find My-enabled devices in the app’s interface. While it may not offer the precise, down-to-the-inch locating capabilities of the AirTag thanks to the absence of UWB technology, the AIYATO does a commendable job of leading you to the general vicinity of your misplaced items.
While the AIYATO tracker doesn’t boast the ultra-precision of UWB, for everyday use—where a few meters’ radius is more than sufficient — it excels. Within those meters, the buzzer is loud enough to hear and find the tracker out.
The device claims to be dustproof and waterproof, though these features haven’t been put to the test. It also promises a year of battery life off a single CR2032 battery, which is user-replaceable, ensuring long-term usability and ease of maintenance.
Conclusion
The AIYATO tracker is a robust, MFi-certified addition to the Apple Find My network. It demonstrates that cost-effective solutions can indeed stand shoulder to shoulder with premium offerings. While it may not match the AirTag’s pinpoint accuracy, it navigates the balance between affordability and functionality with finesse.
For those integrated into the Apple ecosystem and looking for a tracker that won’t leave a dent in their finances, the AIYATO is a compelling proposition. It’s not just about tracking; it’s about being smart with your tech choices.
The AIYATO tracker, with its MFi certification, proves that you can have your tech cake and eat it too, without the premium price tag.