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The Pixel Tag is Google's $29 AirTag alternative - with one big advantage

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Why This Matters

Google's Pixel Tag introduces a new level of precision in device tracking by incorporating Bluetooth Channel Sounding and Ultra Wideband technology, setting it apart from competitors like Apple's AirTag and Samsung's Galaxy SmartTag2. This innovation enhances accuracy, stability, and security in locating devices, which is crucial as the industry moves toward smarter, more reliable tracking solutions for consumers and the tech ecosystem. The Pixel Tag's features signal Google's commitment to expanding its hardware ecosystem and competing more effectively in the smart accessory market.

Key Takeaways

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ZDNET's key takeaways

Aside from all the new Pixel phones, Google announced a new finder tag called Pixel Tag.

It uses Bluetooth Channel Sounding and Ultra Wideband for precision tracking.

Channel Sounding promises more stable, accurate, and secure device tracking.

Google's Made by Google event features a hardware newcomer this year: the Pixel Tag. Google's Android-exclusive Pixel Tag Bluetooth tracker debuts with a user-replaceable coin battery, an IP67 dust and water-resistance rating, and compatibility with any Android phone running Android 9 or later.

However, the most interesting aspect of the Pixel Tag is its inclusion of Bluetooth Channel Sounding device-tracking technology. Google isn't the first to incorporate Channel Sounding into an Android-only tracker; Motorola's Moto Tag 2 has the same technology.

Also: This subtle Pixel 11 Pro feature reminded me of the golden days of Android phones

But is Google's tracker any better? Based on the specs alone, not necessarily. But Google needs to keep adding peripheral devices to its catalog to keep up with Apple and Samsung. Based on the specs, if we pit Google's Pixel Tag to Apple's AirTag and Samsung's Galaxy SmartTag2, there's one technology that sets it apart: Bluetooth Channel Sounding.

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