Apple is once again enhancing the capabilities of its Find My app, this time by introducing a feature that allows users to share the location of lost items, such as an iPhone, MacBook, or Airtag-equipped belongings, with individuals who are not in their contacts. Discovered in the iOS 18.2 developer beta by MacRumors, this innovative functionality is designed to significantly improve the chances of recovering misplaced items by broadening the scope of whom users can inform of their lost possessions.
The new “Share Item Location” feature in the Find My app generates a link that can be sent to a range of individuals, including taxi drivers or airline personnel, enabling them to track the item’s location as you search for it. This functionality is particularly beneficial in instances where users require immediate assistance from people who are not part of their contact list. Furthermore, the link can be accessed on any device, including non-Apple products, making it a versatile tool for users who may find themselves without access to Apple devices.
Once shared, the link has a built-in expiration system, designed to lapse either after one week or immediately upon the return of the item to its owner. This feature enhances security and ensures that tracking capabilities are not indefinitely available to outsiders. In addition to the location-sharing option, users will benefit from a “Share Contact Info” feature, which provides essential contact details—such as phone numbers and emails—on a webpage. This offers an easy way for those who discover a lost item to get in touch with the owner, facilitating the process of returning the item.
Currently, the Find My app permits users to share the location of their lost items only with people in their contacts. The introduction of these new sharing features represents a significant leap forward, leveraging technology to aid in the recovery of lost property while ensuring user privacy through discreet expiration times. The addition of statistic monitoring is another noteworthy enhancement; it allows users to see how many individuals accessed the shared link, equipping them with data that could inform responsiveness and the effectiveness of the outreach.
Incorporating these sharing capabilities into the Find My app not only improves the overall user experience but also represents Apple’s commitment to enhancing safety and usability for all its customers. By allowing link-sharing with non-contacts, Apple is effectively eliminating barriers and increasing accessibility, which is especially crucial in urgent situations when time is of the essence. This reflects an understanding of the diverse scenarios in which users might find themselves, further solidifying Apple’s reputation for prioritizing user-centric design.
The expansion of the Find My app through the upcoming iOS 18.2 update signals Apple’s dedication to innovating the user experience while addressing real-world problems. As users eagerly await the full rollout of these features, the capability to share the location of lost items effectively may redefine how people interact with their devices and the environment around them.