In an effort to reduce vehicle thefts, the city of Arvada, Colorado, has implemented a strategy using Apple’s AirTags as a primary tool. Known for their accuracy and functionality, these tracking devices are being used to help citizens recover stolen vehicles and deter criminals.
The Technology Behind Apple AirTags
Apple’s AirTags, launched in 2021, are small tracking devices designed to locate personal items like keys, wallets, or bags. They operate using Apple’s existing device network, allowing users to track their location through the “Find My” app.
One of the key features of the AirTags is their long-lasting battery, which can exceed 12 months, and their independence from SIM cards. In the event of a lost or stolen item, users can view its location on a map using an iPhone, iPad, or Mac. However, while AirTags notify nearby iPhones if the tag is close for an extended time, they do not provide immediate alerts to Android users.
Strategy to Prevent Vehicle Theft
According to CBS News, the Arvada Police Department has started distributing AirTags for free to eligible residents. To qualify, individuals must live or work in Arvada, have previously experienced vehicle theft, and own one of the most commonly stolen car models in the area.
The program, which began on January 18 and runs until April 12, also offers Tile Trackers as an alternative. The police not only distribute these devices but also install them in hidden areas of vehicles. This ensures that if a car is stolen, authorities can use the technology to track and recover it efficiently.
To complement the initiative, the department provides stickers and signs warning about the presence of tracking devices in vehicles. Messages like, “Attention: Equipped with tracker. This vehicle can be tracked by police if stolen,” aim to deter potential thieves. Even if a car doesn’t contain an AirTag, the warning alone may discourage criminal activity.
Community Response
The rise in vehicle thefts in Arvada has caused significant concern among residents. However, the community’s response to this initiative has been overwhelmingly positive. One local participant praised the effort as “very smart,” expressing relief after previously being a victim of theft.
Arvada’s police department is optimistic that this strategy will decrease the number of stolen vehicles and make the city less appealing to criminals. The uncertainty about which vehicles are equipped with trackers, combined with the risk of being caught, could push thieves to target other areas.
What’s Next for AirTags?
Apple is expected to release an updated version of the AirTag this year with significant enhancements in range, accuracy, and security. Key features of the AirTag 2 include:
- Extended Range: The new model will reportedly have a range three times greater than the current version, leveraging the second-generation U1 chip included in devices like the iPhone 15 and Apple Watch Ultra 2.
- Improved Precision: Enhanced chip technology will make locating objects more reliable, further supporting recovery efforts for stolen items or vehicles.
- Privacy Enhancements: New safeguards will help prevent misuse, such as disabling the device’s speaker to avoid unwanted alerts.
With these advancements, AirTags could become an even more valuable tool in the fight against theft, providing individuals and communities with peace of mind and improved security.