Samsung is launching the next generation of its Bluetooth tracker with the Galaxy SmartTag 3. The third iteration is noticeably more compact and surprisingly opens up to Apple devices running iOS 17 and later, while continuing to bypass Google’s cross-device Find My Device network for Android.
More Compact Design and Bluetooth 6.0
Compared to its predecessor, the manufacturer has fundamentally overhauled the design: according to Samsung, the SmartTag 3 is 35 percent smaller and 33 percent lighter. The previous oblong shape with a large cutout makes way for a square form factor with rounded corners. The tracker is available in black and white and can be attached using accessories such as silicone cases with key rings or loop cases.
Under the hood, Samsung relies on modern wireless technology. Thanks to Bluetooth 6.0’s Channel Sounding—a technique for precise distance measurement via radio signals—the Compass View directional guide delivers ranges of up to 60 meters with direct line of sight. That is roughly three times the range of the previous model.
Feature Set and iOS Limitations
The SmartTag 3 introduces new features such as location alerts, allowing users to define safe zones that trigger an alert on the smartphone when entered or exited. A location history records movement over recent days, while a sensor warns of unexpected vibrations or impacts. The feature list is rounded out by an NFC chip to display contact information if lost, as well as a button to control connected smart home devices via Samsung’s SmartThings platform.
Support for Apple devices is particularly notable: iPhones running iOS 17 or later can utilize basic tracking and sharing features. However, Samsung limits functionality on iOS: the advanced Compass View directional finding, ringing the smartphone from the tracker, and left-behind alerts remain exclusive to Galaxy devices.
Samsung’s Proprietary Network Instead of Google Find My Device
Despite opening up partially to Apple’s ecosystem, Samsung continues to forgo integration with Google’s Find My Device network, which powers most Android smartphones. Instead, the company relies exclusively on its proprietary Find network, which Samsung claims spans over 900 million Galaxy devices worldwide. Lost trackers outside their own wireless range can therefore only be located by Samsung smartphones or tablets.
Power is supplied by a replaceable CR2032 coin cell battery, expected to offer standard battery life of up to 550 days; Samsung claims up to 790 days are possible in power-saving mode.
Pricing and Availability
The Galaxy SmartTag 3 is scheduled to launch in Germany early next year. Samsung has not yet announced an official euro price. In South Korea, the device costs 44,000 won (roughly 29 euros), while pricing for the US is set at $29.99. In Germany, the SmartTag 2 originally debuted at 39.90 euros.
For dedicated iPhone users, Apple’s AirTag remains the better choice due to its seamless system integration. However, the Galaxy SmartTag 3 is particularly attractive for mixed households using both Galaxy and Apple smartphones.
Sources: Heise – News
