The tech giant also updated Find My app for compatible third-party devices to be located and tracked
The Find My network accessory programme lets users to track their belongings in the newly added Items tab in the Find My app. (Credit: Apple Inc.)
Apple has launched the Find My network accessory programme to enable third-party Bluetooth devices to be tracked through Apple devices by using the Find My app.
The company has also updated Find My app to feature a new Items tab using which all the compatible third-party devices can be located and tracked by customers.
Starting from next week, new products that work with Find My app from Belkin, VanMoof, and Chipolo will be available, said Apple.
The first of the Find My-enabled products will be the latest S3 and X3 e-bikes from VanMoof, the SOUNDFORM Freedom True Wireless Earbuds from Belkin, and the Chipolo ONE Spot item finder.
More third-party device manufacturers will be offering Find My-enabled products and accessories shortly, said Apple.
Apple worldwide product marketing vice president Bob Borchers said: “For more than a decade, our customers have relied on Find My to locate their missing or stolen Apple devices, all while protecting their privacy.
“Now we’re bringing the powerful finding capabilities of Find My, one of our most popular services, to more people with the Find My network accessory program. We’re thrilled to see how Belkin, Chipolo, and VanMoof are utilising this technology, and can’t wait to see what other partners create.”
According to Apple, the Find My network accessory programme is designed for any accessory developers who want to connect an existing or new product to the Find My network. It is part of the Made for iPhone (MFi) programme.
The company said that third-party products should comply with all the privacy protections of the Find My network.
The Find My network employs Bluetooth wireless technology for detecting where missing devices or items are located nearby. It reports their approximate location to the device owner.
The Find My app enables users to locate their lost Apple device on a map, and play a sound for pinpointing the location. It also puts the device in lost mode for immediately locking it, and also gives the option of remotely removing data from the device if it goes into the wrong hands.