Xiaomi Launches Xiaomi Tag: A Budget-Friendly AirTag Alternative
TL;DR: Xiaomi has launched the Xiaomi Tag, a budget Bluetooth tracker priced at €17.99. It works with Apple Find My and Google’s Find network but skips Ultra Wideband for precision tracking.
Xiaomi has quietly launched its own Bluetooth-based tracker called the Xiaomi Tag, positioning it as an affordable alternative to Apple’s AirTag and other item finders on the market. Retail listings in Europe reveal pricing that undercuts competitors while still offering broad tracking support through both Apple and Google networks.
The Xiaomi Tag is now appearing in European stores with a recommended price of €17.99 (about RM83) for a single unit and €59.99 (about RM280) for a four-pack, making it considerably cheaper than Apple’s AirTag and many other third-party trackers.
Functionality and Design
The tracker is built around Bluetooth 5.4 and NFC technology, and runs on a replaceable CR2032 coin battery that should last roughly a year before needing a swap. Unlike Apple’s second-generation AirTag, however, the Xiaomi Tag does not include Ultra Wideband (UWB) hardware, at least not in the currently listed version, despite earlier code hints suggesting UWB might be part of the design.
At about 7.2mm thick with a slim plastic body, the Xiaomi Tag is simple and lightweight, designed for everyday items like keys, bags, wallets, or other personal belongings.
Cross-Platform Tracking
A key selling point of the Xiaomi Tag is its cross-platform compatibility. Listings indicate the device can work with both Apple’s Find My network and Google’s Find Hub (Find My Device) network, allowing users, whether they’re on iOS or Android, to tap into large crowdsourced tracking ecosystems for locating tagged items.
This dual compatibility sets the Xiaomi Tag apart from many alternatives that lock users into a single ecosystem, and could help it attract buyers who use multiple devices or who want flexibility without extra cost.
What’s Missing; And What Might Come Next
While this first version skips UWB, the short-range, high-precision tracking tech used in products like Apple’s Precision Finding, industry chatter and leaked code earlier suggested that Xiaomi may be preparing a UWB-equipped version for later. For now, though, the low-price Bluetooth model helps Xiaomi undercut rivals and bring item-tracking tech into a more accessible price bracket.
Why This Matters
Item trackers like AirTags and SmartTags have become essential accessories for many users, especially as phones, keys, and bags become harder to keep track of. With its aggressive pricing and broad compatibility, the Xiaomi Tag could appeal to users looking for basic tracking without paying premium prices, though lacking UWB means precision locating won’t be as sharp as on premium alternatives.
