I found AirTag alternatives that are tough, loud, and compatible with Android phones

13 hours ago 11

ZDNET's key takeaways

Both tags feature super loud 360-degree omnidirectional buzzers
Both finder tags are super tough and built to last
The tags have features you don't see on AirTags, such as wireless charging and glow-in-the-dark inserts.

I love finder tags and have them on anything and everything I can possibly lose.

They've made life so much better -- reducing frustration and eliminating those morning panics trying to find my keys and wallet.

While the Apple AirTag is undoubtedly the best of the best -- it's the only tag to offer precision finding -- plenty of third-party finder tags offer features that AirTags can't provide.

Also: This clever 4-in-1 keychain charger has made traveling with devices much easier for me

One company hitting it out of the park with finder tags is Rolling Square, and they have two new tags available.

First up is the AirCard Pro, a finder tag designed to be slid into a wallet or purse. According to Rolling Square, this is the world's first Bluetooth finder tag with wireless charging, Android and Apple compatibility, and an integrated digital ID feature.

The tag measures 85.4 x 54 x 2.2 mm/3.4 x 2.2 x 0.09 inches -- thinner than two credit cards -- and weighs only 18 grams / 0.63 ounces.

It's also built tough. It's constructed from two nearly unbreakable epoxy fiberglass resin sheets that sandwich the electronics into a CNC-machined anodized aluminum frame. Inside this tiny package is a loud buzzer that can be heard almost anywhere.

The AirCard Pro features an ultra-flat lithium 220mAh battery that provides 12 months of battery life, whether you're using it with an iPhone or an Android device. When the battery goes flat, just pop the AirCard Pro on a wireless charger and it'll be charged up in 90 minutes.

Also: Finally, Bluetooth trackers for Android users that function even better than AirTags

The laser-etched QR code allows you to create a Digital ID, to which you can add your contact info, social media links, and any other personal data you want. You can share this ID by getting people to scan the QR code. If the worst should happen and you lose your wallet, you can change the message to information to help you get your wallet back.

The omnidirectional speaker is much louder than the speaker on the AirTag.

Next is the AirNotch Pro, a finder tag for fitting onto keys. Again, this is another world's first for Rolling Square: a Bluetooth finder tag that is Android- and Apple-compatible, with a replaceable battery and 360-degree omnidirectional sound.

These tags are also built to survive, made of tough ABS plastic and robust CNC-machined anodized aluminum, and custom gaskets -- giving this IP68 rated dust- and water-resistance. Everything is held together with a dozen Torx screws.

Embedded into the case are ultra-bright photoluminescent glow-in-the-dark inserts that help you find your items day or night – a fantastic touch.

Yes, it has glow-in-the-dark elements for easy finding in low-light conditions.

The tags measure 54.8 x 27.6 x 10.2 mm/2.2 x 1.1 x 0.4 inches and weigh only 23 grams/0.35 ounces. Inside are two CR2032 replaceable button batteries, which will last 20 months before needing to be replaced. The AirNotch Pro also features two super-loud buzzers that emit omnidirectional 360-degree sound to help you locate your items.

ZDNET's buying advice

I do like Rolling Square hardware. Everything the company makes that I've tested has exceeded my expectations (it also makes some excellent charging cables).

Also: How to find out if an AirTag is tracking you - and what to do about it

Rolling Square products combine great engineering with tough construction; these tags are no exception. I love the handy little features, such as the super-loud buzzer -- Apple really needs a louder buzzer on the AirTags -- and the use of photoluminescent paint.

The AirCard Pro and AirNotch Pro are each $39, pricier than the AirTag, but these work on both Apple and Android networks, have more features, and are built to last.

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