Pixel Tag won't launch alongside Pixel 11 phones. It's coming later in the year, but its specs tell us enough to point out potential issues with the tracker
In summary:
- Tech Advisor notes that Google’s new Pixel Tag tracker launches on 11 November starting at £29/$29, featuring Ultra Wideband technology for precise location tracking.
- The device has two key caveats: users need Android 16 and Bluetooth 6.0 for best performance, with advanced features requiring newer hardware like the Pixel 10.
- Its saving grace appears to be a replaceable CR2032 battery, offering better longevity than many rival trackers.
Google has announced its first Bluetooth tracker alongside the Pixel 11 phones, but the device has a couple of drawbacks for some users – as well as a big advantage over the Apple AirTag.
The Pixel Tag doesn’t launch until later this year, but a couple of specifications have caught my eye, and not in a good way. While you’ll only need to be on Android 9 or later to use one, other features might be out of your reach.
It’s certainly good news that the Pixel Tag has Ultra Wideband technology. It means you can get precise close-range tracking, but your phone needs to have it too. Note: I’ve had to use a leaked render as Google hasn’t supplied imagery, but it is real.
Of course, the new Pixel 11 phones are compatible, as are flagship Pixel 10 phones. However, the Pixel 10a and everything non-Pro in the Pixel 9 series or older lack Ultra Wideband. That’s just using Google’s own Pixel phones as an example.
Moving onto Bluetooth, the Pixel Tag has Bluetooth 6.0 and, while phones with older versions will still work with the tracker, you’ll need this version on your mobile (as well as Android 16+) to get Channel Sounding for improved performance.
This one is even worse, as it rules out anything older than a flagship Pixel 10 series phone, while also eliminating the Pixel 10a.
Although it’s a similar story with rivals such as the Motorola Moto Tag 2, it’s worth pointing out. Otherwise, you might assume that your Pixel 9, for example, would work fully with the Pixel Tag considering it’s only a couple of years old.
Sadly, that’s not the case, but luckily there is a saving grace. Google has given the Pixel Tag a much-requested feature in the smart tracker world – a removable battery.
The device will last for a year and then you can simply put in a new CR2032 battery. That’s the very cheap coin/button style battery you may well have put in an analogue watch before.
It’s a simple yet important choice, which ensures longevity while minimising e-waste.
When the Pixel Tag arrives on 11 November, it will cost £29/$29 or £99/$99 for a pack of four. At launch, it only comes in one colour: Fog.
