I'm curious about how Bluetooth trackers function, especially when it comes to their reliance on other people's devices. I've read that many tracking devices utilize Bluetooth to communicate with phones, but I'm unsure if they can 'ping' these phones if Bluetooth is turned off. Personally, I keep Bluetooth disabled on my phone to save battery, so I'm wondering how that affects the efficiency of these trackers. Additionally, do most people tend to keep Bluetooth on? I also saw a tracker mention 4G support, which I find confusing, since that's a cellular technology and doesn't seem related to Bluetooth. I'm interested in getting a couple of tracking devices, but I live in a rural area, so I'm concerned about their practicality. Any insights would be appreciated!
4 Answers
You'll need Bluetooth enabled on your phone for the Bluetooth trackers to work effectively. Even when it's on, you also need to grant permission to the app to access location and Bluetooth services. If it's turned off, the tracker won't be able to communicate with your phone or any nearby devices.
I usually keep my Bluetooth enabled since I use it for my smartwatch. A friend lost their wallet, and their tracking device helped pinpoint its location, but it took a while, especially at night. Leaving Bluetooth on can make tracking easier, but it really depends on how often you find it practical.
Bluetooth trackers generally need Bluetooth to be enabled on other devices to exchange signals and locate items. They usually communicate via Bluetooth Low Energy (LE), which can operate without being discoverable, making them less of a hassle. If you're in a rural area, you might want to check out LORA trackers, as they use long-range signals and GPS, which could be more effective for your situation.
I've used an Apple AirTag before, and it worked great for tracking my suitcase through the airport, thanks to Bluetooth being on. It seems like many people do keep their Bluetooth enabled, at least for conveniences like connecting to headphones. If you're worried about battery life, consider that many devices can now help with tracking when they're connected.
Related Questions
Google Nest Doorbell Not Alerting Google Hub Or Google Mini
Can't Rename Google Nest Doorbell