How to share the location of an object in the Find My App with anyone

With the second beta of iOS 18.2 and its new features, Apple goes far beyond the introduction of image tools in Apple Intelligence. In this new version, sharing the location of a lost item becomes simpler and more direct, as we can now send the location of our AirTag and other devices not only to friends and family but to anyone. This opens up a world of possibilities, allowing us to receive help from people outside our close circles in case of loss, especially in situations where speed is essential, such as in airports, offices, or crowded places.

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Public access to the location of our objects

Until now, the Find My app allowed us to share the location of objects, but only with trusted people. Now, iOS 18.2 takes this feature a step further by adding the option to create a public link. This is a link that we can send, and anyone with access to it will be able to see the location of our object. How? By following these steps:

1. We open the Find My app on our iPhone or iPad.
2. We enter the Items tab.
3. We select the AirTag or tracking device for which we want to share the location.
4. At the bottom, next to “Lost AirTag,” we tap on “Share Item Location.”
5. We tap on Continue.

Here we will see a link that we can copy and send by any means to the appropriate person. The link, however, is temporary and will stop working after a few hours. Alternatively, by following the previous steps, we can deactivate the link in step 4 whenever we need to.

It is in this same option in step four where we find another option that further facilitates the recovery of lost objects. Now, when someone brings an AirTag close to an iPhone, the contact information we have chosen to share, such as our email or phone number, will be displayed.

As Apple itself explains within the sharing options settings, this new functionality in the Find My app is especially practical for situations where an object is lost in public places or in transit. For example, if a suitcase is lost at the airport, it is now possible to share a location link with airline staff so they can quickly track and recover the luggage. Being a temporary link, privacy remains protected, as it will become inactive after a few hours or when we decide to stop sharing the location.

The iOS 18.2 update is already in beta phase for developers, and Apple has confirmed that it will be available to the general public in December. The feature may, therefore, change before its release. Beyond the small details, however, it is clear that the AirTag is about to become much more useful.

The ability to share the location of our objects with anyone and quick access to contact information in case of loss are very important steps in keeping belongings safe.