The fundamental difference
Real GPS: how it works
Uses satellites to calculate its position and the mobile network (SIM) to send it to your phone. Works anywhere with coverage. Updates every few seconds. Requires monthly subscription.
AirTag: how it really works
Uses Bluetooth to communicate with nearby iPhones on Apple's "Find My" network. Those iPhones anonymously send the AirTag's position to Apple, who forwards it to you. Without iPhones nearby, the position doesn't update.
Full comparison table
| Feature | AirTag | Real GPS (Tractive) |
|---|---|---|
| Technology | Bluetooth + Apple network | GPS satellite + 4G mobile network |
| Position update | Only when near an iPhone | Every 2โ60 seconds |
| Initial cost | โฌ35 | ~โฌ50 |
| Monthly fee | No | ~โฌ5/month |
| Battery | 1 year (CR2032) | 2โ7 days |
| Works in countryside/rural | Very limited | Yes (with 4G coverage) |
| Works in city | Well | Excellent |
| Virtual fence | No | Yes |
| Route history | No | Yes |
| Activity monitor | No | Yes (some models) |
| Android compatible | No | Yes |
| Weight | 11g | ~34g |
When each is enough
AirTag is enough if...
You live in a dense city with many iPhone users. Your pet doesn't usually go far. You have an iPhone (not Android). You don't want any monthly costs.
AirTag is NOT enough if...
Your pet goes out to the countryside, hills or rural areas. You need instant real-time tracking while they're moving. You use Android. Your area has few iPhone users.
Frequently asked questions
Not to track your own AirTag. Google's Tracker Detect app can detect unknown AirTags for privacy reasons, but you can't use it to locate your own AirTag from an Android phone. AirTag is designed exclusively for the Apple ecosystem.
In cities with high iPhone density, it can update every 5โ15 minutes. In less dense residential areas, it can take 30โ60 minutes. Completely unpredictable โ it depends entirely on how many iPhone users pass nearby.
If your pet goes outside or has a history of escaping, yes. The cost of searching for a lost pet (time, stress, posters, vet bills) far exceeds the annual subscription cost. Many owners find their pet in minutes thanks to GPS.