Apple has launched a new feature “Share Item Location”, designed to help users track and recover lost items more easily. The feature is available on iOS 18.2 public beta and aims to provide iPhone users with a seamless way to recover lost items, especially while on the go.

With item location sharing, users can generate a shareable link in the Find My app on their iPhone, iPad, or Mac. The recipient of the link can see the item’s current location on an interactive map that updates as the item moves, as well as a timestamp for recent updates. Shared space automatically deactivates after the item is recovered, and the feature can be disabled at any time by the owner. The links are designed to expire after seven days, increasing user control and security.

Apple’s new feature aims to help travelers locate lost luggage, a growing concern for airline travelers. In collaboration with airlines, Apple has integrated Share Item Location into the customer service processes of more than 15 major airlines, including Delta, United, British Airways, and Singapore Airlines. By the end of 2024, these airlines plan to support Find My Location data to help locate delayed or mishandled baggage, with more airlines expected to join over time.

The Share Item Location feature works within the established privacy framework of Apple’s Find My network, which is built with end-to-end encryption and user anonymity. Apple says data security is at the heart of this feature, with only authorized individuals from participating airlines having access to location information. Airline customer service agents can use this data to track lost items and reunite them with their owners, providing a valuable tool for more efficient baggage management.

The initiative extends to SITA, a global leader in air transportation technology, which plans to incorporate Share Item Location into its WorldTracer system, which is used by more than 500 airlines worldwide. By adopting this feature, Apple and SITA aim to streamline baggage management, giving passengers peace of mind when checking their luggage.

With this feature, Apple hopes to reduce the frustrations of travelers around the world over lost luggage, turning the technology into a practical tool that helps users retrieve their luggage safely and reliably. will help.