Apple’s iPhone 15 Series Introduces Extended-Range Find My Feature

iOS 17's New 'Check-In' Feature

Apple introduced its latest iPhone 15 series earlier this month, featuring four distinct models: the iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, and iPhone 15 Pro Max. These new additions to the iPhone lineup boast significant enhancements, encompassing improvements in camera technology, USB-C charging capabilities, fresh design elements, and more. Notably, a key innovation in the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro models is the inclusion of a second-generation Ultra-Wideband (UWB) chip, powering a novel Find My feature with extended-range capabilities. Recently, Apple released iOS 17’s Contact Posters which is a Creative Revolution in iPhone Calls.

How the Find My Feature Functions on iPhone

Differing from its predecessor, the U1 chip, present in earlier iPhone generations and AirTags, the revamped Find My feature relies on the second-generation UWB chip. This innovation empowers iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro users to effortlessly locate nearby friends who also possess a device from the iPhone 15 series. Apple asserts that this second-gen chip offers a remarkable threefold boost in range compared to the U1 chip. While Precision Finding with AirTags typically extends to about 10-15 meters, Precision Finding for People, albeit available in select regions, benefits from this enhanced UWB chip. You can also read about Personalizing iPhone Notifications like how to set Custom Vibration Patterns for Individual Contacts.

For instance, an iPhone 15 can establish a connection with another device even when it’s approximately 60 meters away, surpassing the range achievable with Precision Finding using AirTags. This extended range particularly excels in open outdoor environments but may be somewhat limited indoors due to obstacles like walls and interference.

In the near future, an upcoming iteration of AirTags is expected to incorporate this cutting-edge Ultra-Wideband chip, promising to elevate the item-finding experience. Moreover, the new Precision Finding interface continuously updates distance and direction indicators for added accuracy.

How to activate the Find My Feature on iPhone

To activate this feature, users can follow these steps:

  1. Launch the Find My app on your iPhone 15 or iPhone 15 Pro.
  2. Tap “People” located at the bottom of the screen, then select the name of the friend you wish to locate.
  3. If you are not already sharing locations with each other, you may need to initiate location sharing or request your friend’s location.
  4. Proceed with one of the following actions:
    • To view your friend’s location on Maps, tap “Directions” if you are not in close proximity to them.
    • If you are near each other, tap “Find” to notify your friend that you are attempting to locate them. Follow the onscreen instructions to receive directions to their location.

As you approach your friend’s position, an arrow will indicate their direction along with an estimate of the remaining distance. When you are heading in the correct direction, the screen will turn green to signify your proximity.

Also Read: Mastering iPhone Call Management: Muting Specific Contacts for Undisturbed Focus

You might also like our TUTEZONE section which contains exclusive tutorials on making your life simpler by using technology.

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About the Author: Ranjit Ranjan

More than 15 years of experience in web development projects in countries such as US, UK and India. Blogger by passion and SEO expert by profession.

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