Pebblebee has announced new Universal versions of its Bluetooth trackers that support both Apple’s Find My and Google’s Find My Device networks. At $34.99 each, they’re more expensive than Apple’s popular $29 AirTags, but they include additional features like rechargeable batteries and a light that can make them easier to locate in the dark.
Compatibility with both Apple’s and Google’s networks potentially makes the Pebblebee Universal a better choice for households using a mix of iOS and Android devices, but the trackers won’t work on both networks at the same time. When Google introduced its upgraded Find My Device network last April, Pebblebee confirmed to 9to5Google that its trackers would be limited to the network they were initially set up with. According to that report, if you want to switch from Apple’s Find My to Google’s Find My Device network or vice versa, the tracker will need a factory reset. The Verge has reached out to Pebblebee to confirm this is how its Universal trackers work.
On the other hand, if you want to be able to locate the Universal trackers on any device, you can opt for Pebblebee’s own app over Apple and Google’s networks. The company says its trackers have a range of up to 500 feet (with a reduced range indoors), while the app includes additional features like geofencing, so you’ll be notified when a pet or child leaves a predefined area and safe zones where you won’t be notified if a tracker is left behind.
The app can also be used to locate Pebblebee’s trackers outside the 500-foot Bluetooth range, but the feature is dependent on it being detected by other devices with Pebblebee’s app installed and won’t be as robust as Google or Apple’s extensive networks.
Pebblebee’s Universal trackers are available in three versions. The Clip includes an integrated keyring so it can be attached to items without having to buy a case, offers up to 12 hours of battery life, and can be charged with a standard USB-C cable. The Card is a thinner alternative designed to slip into wallets and has up to 18 months of battery life, while the Tag is Pebblebee’s smallest and lightest tracker and will run up to eight months between charges. The Pebblebee Card and Tag both rely on proprietary magnetic chargers.
Similar to Apple’s AirTags, the Pebblebee Universal trackers are cheaper when purchased in bundles. A two-pack is discounted to $64.99, while a four-pack is $119.99.