Xiaomi Tag Unveiled: Hands-On with the Budget-Friendly Tracker
Xiaomi has officially entered the competitive item tracker market with the launch of the Xiaomi Tag. This new Bluetooth tracker aims to undercut established rivals on price while offering a slim design and broad compatibility.
Aggressive Pricing and Compact Design
The Xiaomi Tag's most immediate advantage is its cost. An individual tag is priced at €18, with a four-pack available for €60. This represents a significant discount compared to major competitors like Apple's AirTag, Samsung's SmartTag2, and Motorola's Moto Tag 2, which often cost double or more.
Beyond price, the design is a key focus. The Tag measures just 7.2mm thick, making it slightly slimmer than its 8.0mm-thick rivals. This subtle difference can be meaningful when slipping the tracker into a wallet or a tight pocket. The device features a built-in metal ring for attaching to keychains, a convenience typically requiring an additional case with some other brands. However, the ring's opening is noted as being quite small, which may limit attachment options compared to some alternatives.
Cross-Platform Compatibility and Features
A major selling point is the Xiaomi Tag's lack of ecosystem lock-in. It is compatible with both Apple's Find My network and Google's Find My Device network (via Android's Find Hub). This future-proofs the device for users who may switch between iOS and Android platforms. It is important to note that the tag cannot be connected to both networks at the same time; a user must choose one.
For finding lost items, the tag uses Bluetooth LE 5.4 for proximity tracking and features a piezoelectric buzzer that can be activated when nearby. A notable feature is a "Lost Mode," which leverages a built-in NFC chip. When enabled via Apple Find My, anyone who finds the tag can tap it with their phone to view contact information provided by the owner. The device is powered by a standard, user-replaceable CR2032 battery with an estimated one-year lifespan and carries an IP67 rating for dust and water resistance.
Conclusion
The Xiaomi Tag presents a compelling value proposition in the crowded tracker market. Its aggressive pricing, thoughtful and compact design, and cross-platform support are its strongest assets. While it makes some trade-offs, like the small keyring hole and the inability to work on both Apple and Google networks simultaneously, it successfully carves out a niche as a versatile and affordable option for users invested in either major mobile ecosystem.