Apple Find My Now Supports e-Bikes & Earbuds

Apple Expands Find My Network to Third-Party Devices

It was previously observed that Apple released a new Find My Certification Asst. application. This tool is intended for testing compatibility with hardware from other manufacturers.

Opening Up the Find My Ecosystem

The Find My feature has long been available for Apple’s own products, including iPhones, AirPods, and Macs. However, during WWDC, Apple announced its intention to extend this capability to external manufacturers.

Today, Apple has formally introduced the Find My Network Accessory program. Several hardware products are now confirmed to leverage this new Made for iPhone (MFi)-related offering.

First Wave of Compatible Hardware

Users will gain the ability to track down misplaced items through the familiar Apple Find My application.

Among the initial devices to support this functionality are a couple of electric bicycles manufactured by VanMoof. The S3 and X3 models will incorporate tracking capabilities. A “Locate with Apple Find My” logo will be visibly placed on the underside of the bicycle’s crossbar.

Belkin’s Soundform Freedom earbuds will also be included, offering the feature alongside Apple’s iPods. Furthermore, the Chipolo ONE Spot will be available before the much-anticipated AirTags.

Availability and Requirements

Apple has stated that these new products are scheduled for release next week.

Detailed privacy guidelines and technical specifications for companies are outlined in Apple’s published white papers. A key requirement is the ability of a device to produce an audible sound when activated for tracking.

This is a simple requirement for devices like earbuds, but necessitates the inclusion of a sound-emitting function in products like the e-bikes.

Future Enhancements

Technical specifications for chip manufacturers will be released in the spring. This will allow companies to integrate Ultra Wideband technology with Apple devices equipped with a U1 chip.

This integration is expected to enhance directional tracking accuracy and provide other potential benefits.

Products that meet Apple’s criteria will be authorized to display the “Works with Apple Find My” badge.