Does Apple's MagSafe Wallet Have "Find My"?

The Apple MagSafe Wallet is a slim wallet that magnetically attaches to the back of supported iPhone models. Introduced in 2021, the second generation of the Apple MagSafe Wallet adds integration with Apple’s Find My network, allowing users to locate a lost wallet through the Find My app.

Does Apple’s MagSafe wallet come with Find My?

Yes, the updated MagSafe Leather Wallet, the new FineWoven Wallet, and the ESR Geo Wallet come with a built-in Find My network. This feature lets users quickly find lost or left behind wallets through the Find My app.

This technology uses an NFC chip that lets the wallet communicate with the phone. When both devices are separated, the connection is no longer detected, and you will receive a notification about the wallet’s whereabouts.

What is Find My and how does it work?

Find My is an Apple service that helps users locate lost Apple devices, as well as track friends and family. It uses GPS, Bluetooth, crowd-sourced WiFi hotspots, and other Apple device locations to pinpoint a device’s location.

When Find My is enabled on an Apple device, users can see its location on a map in the Find My app. For devices like iPhones, the device itself updates the location. But for accessories like Apple’s MagSafe wallet, the location updates when connected to an iPhone via Bluetooth or NFC.

NFC Chip MagSafe Wallet — *Cutting open the wallet reveals the NFC chip (MAKESUPPLY)*

If the wallet detaches from the iPhone, it will no longer update its location. But the Find My network can detect its Bluetooth signal if another Apple device comes near the lost wallet. This lets users know the wallet’s last known location, even when not connected to their own iPhone.

How to set up a MagSafe wallet with Find My?

The Find My feature on the Apple MagSafe Wallet requires an initial setup of adding the wallet to the phone. Here is the guide:

Attach the wallet to the back of the iPhone. The MagSafe magnets will hold it in place.
Follow the on-screen prompts to add the wallet to Find My. This associates it with your Apple ID.
Open the Find My app. The wallet will now be visible as a device connected to your Apple ID.

You can view the wallet’s location alongside your other devices on the map. If the wallet detaches, you’ll get a notification within about a minute, showing you the last known location.

Additionally, enabling Lost Mode lets you display a phone number on the wallet’s lock screen if someone finds it.

Benefits of using a MagSafe wallet with Find My

The integration with Find My provides several benefits that make the Apple’s MagSafe Wallet an appealing accessory:

Locate a lost wallet
If the wallet detaches from your iPhone, you’ll get an alert with its last known location, helping you retrace your steps.

Chance of recovering it if lost
If another Apple device user comes near your lost wallet, you’ll get an updated location. This makes it more likely you’ll get it back.

Peace of mind
Knowing you can view the wallet’s location gives you peace of mind. You don’t have to constantly check to make sure it’s still attached.

Lost Mode
Enable Lost Mode to display a message with your info if someone finds it.

Works automatically
No charging is required for the wallet itself as it has no battery. It works automatically when attached to your iPhone.

Limitations of Find My on MagSafe Wallet

While the Find My offers may be beneficial, there are limitations to be aware of:

Limited tracking capabilities – It only updates location while attached to your iPhone. It can’t be tracked remotely like an AirTag.
No always-on tracking – It doesn’t update location in real-time. You only get alerts when it detaches from the phone.
No precision finding – There is no augmented reality map to guide you to an exact location. It only shows the approximate area.
MagSafe required – It only works with iPhone 12 and newer models, limiting compatibility. The iPhone 11 can’t use it.

While the wallet takes advantage of Find My in a unique way, it does not provide the full set of location tracking features. But it can still be a useful tool for avoiding lost cards and IDs.

Responsible Use Tips

The Find My network is useful, but given its nature of relying on crowd-sourced findings, it’s a great idea to use the feature wisely. Here are some tips:

Only use Lost Mode if you reasonably believe the wallet is truly lost or stolen.
If someone contacts you after finding your wallet, immediately disable Lost Mode and thank them for returning it.
If you get your wallet back, remember to remove it from Find My on your account.
When disposing of an old Apple MagSafe Wallet, unpair it from your devices and accounts.
Be thoughtful about enabling Find My or Lost Mode around others. It could be seen as invasive if misused.

Conclusion

The Apple MagSafe Wallet and its Find My integration is a significant step forward in the realm of smart accessories. It combines the convenience of a slim, stylish wallet with the peace of mind provided by Apple’s Find My network.

While it does have limited tracking capabilities, it serves its purpose well for those who need a compact solution for carrying essential cards and keeps them somewhat trackable and retrievable.

But be aware that there is no activation lock, so someone who found your wallet could use the wallet like normal. It’s always a good idea to keep your wallet safe and avoid losing it in the first place.

Resources:

Some references used when making this article. In case you want to learn more:

Does Apple’s MagSafe Wallet Have “Find My”?

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