The MiTag: An Ultra-Affordable Tracker Joins the Android Find My Device Network
For Android users seeking to keep track of their valuables, the "Find My Device" network offers a valuable safety net. However, the options for compatible trackers have historically been limited and often came with a hefty price tag. While Apple’s AirTag enjoys a vast ecosystem of accessories and a well-established network, Android users have had to contend with a sparser landscape. This makes the emergence of a new, budget-friendly tracker all the more significant. Enter the "MiTag" from MiLi, a device poised to disrupt the market with its sub-$20 price point and compatibility with Google’s Find My Device network.
The Find My Device network, launched to much anticipation, initially struggled to gain traction in the tracker market. After its debut in 2023, the network only boasted a meager selection of AirTag alternatives. Pebblebee offered three trackers, while Chipolo provided two. This limited availability persisted for a considerable period, leaving Android users with few choices. Eventually, the Moto Tag joined the family, providing another option, but the overall selection remained surprisingly slim. While Google has promised further additions to the network, the pace of new tracker releases has been slow, leaving a gap in the market for affordable and accessible tracking solutions.
Enter MiLi, a brand that first made waves with its tracker for Apple’s Find My network in 2023. Now, MiLi has expanded its reach to the Android ecosystem with the "MiTag," launching a version specifically designed for Google’s Find My Device network around December 2024. The MiTag’s primary appeal lies in its affordability. With a retail price of just $17.99, it represents a compelling alternative to the more expensive options from established brands. This price point makes it accessible to a wider range of users, potentially democratizing access to tracking technology within the Android ecosystem.
Beyond its affordability, the MiTag boasts several features that make it a worthy contender in the tracker market. The device is IP67 water-resistant, providing protection against splashes and brief submersion, making it suitable for everyday use and various environments. It also features a replaceable battery, offering a practical advantage over trackers with non-replaceable batteries. MiLi claims the battery life ranges from 8 to 12 months, providing a long period of use before requiring a replacement. This extended battery life contributes to the overall convenience and cost-effectiveness of the MiTag.
The MiTag’s form factor closely resembles that of Apple’s AirTag, adopting a similar circular design. However, it is slightly larger than the AirTag, which unfortunately means it’s incompatible with existing AirTag accessories. Despite this limitation, the MiTag incorporates a built-in cutout for a key ring, allowing users to easily attach it to keys, bags, or other belongings. This simple yet practical design feature enhances the MiTag’s versatility and ease of use.
Customer reviews of the MiTag offer a mixed bag of experiences. On Amazon, the tracker has garnered an average rating of 4 stars based on over 400 reviews. While this rating suggests a generally positive reception, a closer examination of the reviews reveals some inconsistencies in performance. Some users have reported seamless pairing and reliable tracking, while others have encountered issues with pairing or experienced slow location updates.
It’s important to note that the potential for slow location updates is not necessarily unique to the MiTag but rather an inherent characteristic of the Find My Device network itself. While Google has made strides in improving the network’s performance, it still lags behind Apple’s network in terms of speed and accuracy. This means that users may experience delays in locating their MiTag, especially in areas with limited network coverage or a lower density of Android devices contributing to the network. This should be a key consideration for potential buyers.
For users who operate within both the Apple and Android ecosystems, MiLi offers a "MiTag Duo" that works with both Apple and Google’s networks. This dual-compatibility model costs $25, providing a unified tracking solution for individuals who utilize devices from both platforms. The MiTag Duo offers the flexibility to track items regardless of the user’s device preference, making it a valuable option for households with mixed device usage or individuals who switch between iOS and Android devices.
The standard, Android-only MiTag is currently available for purchase on Amazon, offering a convenient and accessible avenue for acquiring this affordable tracker. The availability on Amazon ensures that users can easily access the MiTag with the assurance of a reliable retailer and established customer service.
The arrival of the MiTag represents a significant development in the Android tracker market. Its affordability, coupled with its compatibility with the Find My Device network, makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious users. While the mixed customer reviews and potential limitations of the Find My Device network warrant careful consideration, the MiTag offers a compelling alternative to more expensive trackers. As the Find My Device network continues to evolve and improve, the MiTag has the potential to become a popular and reliable tracking solution for Android users.
If you decide to try out the MiTag, your experiences and feedback would be invaluable to the community. Share your thoughts and observations in the comments to help others make informed decisions about this promising new tracker.
