AirTags cannot be tracked on iCloud.com due to several technical and design limitations inherent in how they operate within Apple's ecosystem.
Technical Limitations
1. Bluetooth Technology: AirTags utilize Bluetooth to communicate their location. They do not have built-in cellular or Wi-Fi capabilities, which means they cannot connect directly to the internet or iCloud without an intermediary device. Instead, they rely on nearby Apple devices to relay their location back to the owner's Apple ID through the Find My network[1][2].2. Find My App Exclusivity: Currently, AirTags can only be tracked using the Find My app on iOS and macOS devices. The web version of iCloud does not support tracking AirTags, as it is designed primarily for locating Apple devices like iPhones and Macs, which can connect directly to the internet[1][3][4].
3. Privacy and Security Considerations: Apple has implemented certain privacy measures to prevent misuse of AirTags. Tracking through a web browser could potentially expose users to stalking risks if someone else gained access to the tracking capabilities via a shared computer. Thus, limiting tracking to mobile devices helps maintain a level of security[2].
User Experience
- Device Dependency: Users must rely on their own Apple devices (iPhone, iPad, or Mac) to track AirTags. If someone does not have access to these devices, they cannot track their AirTags through iCloud.com[3][5].- Account Limitations: Tracking requires that users are logged into the correct Apple ID associated with the AirTag. If a user is logged into a different account on iCloud.com, they will not see their AirTags listed[4][5].
In summary, AirTags are designed for tracking through the Find My app on Apple devices rather than via iCloud.com due to their reliance on Bluetooth technology, privacy considerations, and the need for direct device connectivity.
Citations:[1] https://apple.stackexchange.com/questions/420123/how-do-you-find-an-airtag-on-the-web
[2] https://forums.macrumors.com/threads/why-cant-you-track-airtags-via-icloud-com.2308668/
[3] https://www.reddit.com/r/AirTags/comments/p2fbzo/do_airtags_work_with_icloudcom/
[4] https://apple.stackexchange.com/questions/459235/locate-airtags-without-ipad-or-iphone
[5] https://www.businessinsider.com/guides/tech/how-to-track-airtags