AirTags Work as an NFC Trigger for Apple Shortcuts
The AirTag's built-in NFC coil can be used by the Apple Shortcuts app to trigger automations, it has been found.
The functionality, noticed by iCulture, allows users to trigger Shortcuts by simply tapping the top of their iPhone on the white plastic side of the AirTag. As Shortcuts are completely user-configurable, and can be used to initiate an almost infinite number of actions, the fact that the AirTag can be used to trigger automations opens up new possibilities for automating HomeKit scenes, app behavior, and more.
The AirTag's NFC coil is intended to be used by people who may find a lost AirTag. When the AirTag has been put into Lost Mode by its owner, someone who finds the lost AirTag can scan it with an iPhone or Android device using NFC to get a link to the owner's contact details so that it can be returned. Functionality as a Shortcuts automation trigger appears to simply be a bonus use for the NFC coil.
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Top Rated Comments
I know that all of that can be done with a cheaper NFC tag, but adding the ability to locate my backpack is ideal.
https://www.hiome.com
I've been using them for over a year now, and while the first few months were a little rocky (occasionally missed my entering or leaving a room) I guess they (silently, I never had to do anything) updated the firmware because now they are very reliable.
They appear as HomeKit Occupancy sensors, and I use them for exactly what you want. Basically my home setup is
- some lights go on in the afternoon (based on a Hue light sensor)
- all lights come on an hour before sunset (but many of them to 30%)
- when I walk into a room the 30% goes to 100%
- when I leave a room a timer starts and, after 3 minutes, they revert to 30%
To get this fancy you also need Homebridge (to provide HomeKit timers and HomeKit state variables). But for the basic concept you want, the room OCCUPANCY [without having to wave your hands every fifteen minutes]) I've been very happy with Hiome.