Apple is introducing a new Find My-based feature called “Share Item Location,” which enables users to share the location of misplaced items via AirTag or Find My network accessory links with third parties, including airlines.
Share Item Location
Users can get this feature in beta with iOS 18.2 update – current implementation allows users to securely generate a shareable link in the Find My app, viewable by recipients on an interactive map that automatically updates with the latest item location. For privacy, user can disable the shared location anytime, but it’ll otherwise expire automatically after seven days or upon the item’s recovery.
Currently, 15 airlines worldwide that includes United, Delta, British Airways, and Singapore Airlines will allow customers to share item locations directly as part of their lost baggage processes (more airlines will join the list over time, the company says). Still, you don’t want any random employee to access that information. For that, Apple has collaborated with airlines to limit the exposure of the information, including restricting the access only to approved personnel and mandatory authentication.
To support industry-wide adoption, SITA (an aviation-focused IT services company) plans to integrate Share Item Location with its WorldTracer system used by over 500 airlines and ground handlers globally. Apple also stresses that data within the Find My network remains private, end-to-end encrypted, and anonymous from third parties.
Pokdepinion: Time for Android to follow.
