What is an Airtag bicycle bell?

With Airtags, Apple has developed a handy and uncomplicated tracking system that was originally intended for finding keys, bags or other everyday objects. But Airtags are now also used for bicycle and e-bike security. An Airtag bicycle bell integrates the small tracker discreetly into a bicycle bell that can be attached to the handlebars. This way, the Airtag remains hidden and is difficult for thieves to detect.

Advantages of Airtag bicycle bells

1. Invisible tracking: By positioning the Airtag inside the doorbell, it remains almost invisible, reducing the chance of thieves discovering and removing it.

2. Easy to use: Once the Airtag is inserted into the bell and attached to the bike, it can be connected to the Apple "Find My" app. If your bike is stolen, its location can be tracked in real time.

3. Wide network coverage: Since Apple users travel around the world, Airtags can use the anonymous devices in the thief's vicinity to provide a relatively accurate location report - even if your bike is far away from you.

How does tracking work with Airtags?

The Airtags use Apple's "Find My" network, which is based on millions of iOS devices. As soon as the Airtag comes within range of another iOS device, its position is transmitted to the network and you can access it in the "Find My" app. The data remains anonymous and secure - the location transmission is encrypted and anonymized.

The Airtags don't have their own GPS functionality, so they rely on nearby iOS devices. In remote areas or if the bike is in an area where few Apple devices are within range, it can be more difficult to determine an accurate location.

Airtags and data protection

Apple has implemented comprehensive privacy policies to prevent the misuse of Airtags. For example, Airtags are detected when they travel with someone unnoticed for a long time and a notification is sent to the iPhone of the person being "tracked" by the Airtag. In addition, the Airtag plays a sound after a certain period of time if it is in motion for a long time without its owner being nearby.

Alternatives and additions to Airtag tracking

Although Airtag bike bells offer a great solution, it is advisable to take further measures:

• GPS-based trackers : Some GPS trackers designed specifically for bikes offer continuous real-time tracking, independent of other devices in the area.
• Smart locks: There are now locks that are equipped with alarms and motion sensors that sound an alarm if they are tampered with.
• Bicycle insurance : For high-quality bicycles and e-bikes, it is often worthwhile to take out bicycle insurance, which at least covers the costs in the event of theft.

Conclusion: Is an Airtag bicycle bell worth it?

Airtag bicycle bells offer a simple and unobtrusive way to better protect high-quality bicycles such as racing bikes , gravel bikes and e-bikes from theft. The tracker remains largely invisible to thieves, making it difficult to quickly detect and remove. Apple's well-developed "Find My" network also gives you the option of locating your bike after it has been stolen - a valuable addition to a good lock and other security measures.