The Android Alternative to Apple AirTags Has Finally Arrived

Bluetooth tracker tags have been around for a while, but they’ve always had a major limitation: they’re only useful if you’re within Bluetooth range of your lost item. That’s why Apple’s AirTags have been the clear winner in the tracker market - they use the global network of iPhones, iPads, and Macs to anonymously ping for nearby AirTags and triangulate their exact location.

But what about Android users? Until now, they’ve been left out in the cold. That’s all changed with the release of two new trackers from Chipolo that work with Android phones. The Chipolo One Point and Chipolo Card Point are a key fob tag and credit card-sized tag respectively, and they work in a similar way to AirTags but on Google’s Android platform.

The Chipolo One Point key fob tag

I’ve been testing these trackers, and I have to say, they’re a solid buy for Android owners who want an AirTag-style Bluetooth tracker. The One Point is particularly impressive, with a removable CR2032 disc battery that can be easily replaced when it runs out. It’s also got a handy built-in key chain loop, and at £30, it represents excellent value.

The Card Point is a bit more of a mixed bag. While it’s designed to slip easily into any card slot in a wallet or purse, the battery is not removable, which is a major drawback. Chipolo says it should last two years, but then you’ll have to throw it away, which is very wasteful. The company runs a return program where you can buy a new Card Point at a 50% discount if you register your purchase, but it would have been better if they’d opted for a replaceable design.

The Chipolo Card Point credit card-sized tag

When set up, you use the Google Find My Device app to locate the trackers. If you’re within Bluetooth range (200ft/60m), you can get them to chirp quite loudly thanks to built-in speakers. This is great for finding your keys or wallet down the back of the sofa, but outside of that range, you need to depend on the network of Android phones out there to help you out.

This is where the big catch is. Unlike with Apple’s Find My network, for your Android device to be able to silently help people locate their tags, you need to opt in. Because the new Find My Device app is, well, new, it’s very likely that millions of people haven’t opted in yet. It means the Chipolo tags (and others from rival brands) will only become useful to their full potential if every Android owner out there opts into the terms of the technology.

The Google Find My Device app

Overall, the new Chipolo One Point key fob tracker is a solid buy for Android owners who want an AirTag-style Bluetooth tracker. As more people are added to the Find My Device network, these tags will become more useful. As it stands, they’re solid buys if you regularly misplace your keys or wallet. You’ll probably have to hope you’re in Bluetooth range when you do, though.

“The new Chipolo trackers are a solid alternative to Apple AirTags for Android users. While they’re not perfect, they’re a step in the right direction.”