I Checked Out the New Samsung SmartTag3 — Here’s Why This Tracker Could Be a Game-Changer

The Samsung SmartTag3 is poised to give Apple AirTags serious competition in the item-tracking market, largely thanks to a major upgrade: cross-OS support. This universality makes the tracker much more appealing regardless of your preferred mobile ecosystem.

Hands-On Impressions with the SmartTag3

During a recent Samsung event, I had the opportunity to go hands-on with the SmartTag3 and came away impressed by its redesigned compact form factor and advanced features. A cute dog was even present at the showcase to demonstrate how useful the tags are for pet owners. Whether you are tracking a furry friend or your luggage, the SmartTag3 aims to simplify keeping tabs on your valuables.

Price and Availability

Arriving just in time for the holiday season, the Samsung Galaxy SmartTag3 will launch in the U.S. in early November. Pricing is set at $29 for a single pack and $99 for a four-pack, with color options available in White and Black. Additionally, Samsung will offer official accessories like a Silicone Case with a keyring and a Loop Case.

Compact and Elegant Design

Moving away from the key-fob style of the Galaxy SmartTag 2, the new SmartTag3 resembles a sleek, small puck. It is approximately 35% smaller by volume and 33% lighter than its predecessor. This reduction makes it effortless to attach to keys, small bags, luggage, or a pet's collar. The rounded device also features an aluminum-decorated button, offering a durable feel and an elegant aesthetic.

Core Features and Ecosystem Compatibility

One of the biggest breakthroughs for the Galaxy SmartTag lineup is cross-compatibility between Galaxy and iOS devices. This means iPhone users can seamlessly use the SmartTag3 with their phones, making sharing and finding items across families and groups much easier through SmartThings Find.

• Compass View: Provides distance and directional guidance from up to 60 meters away—about three times farther than the previous model.
• Galaxy Find Network: When out of direct range, a global network of over 900 million participating Galaxy devices acts as finding nodes to update the tag's location.
• Place Notification & Location History: Alerts you when an item or pet moves outside its usual zone and lets you review past movements.
• Unmatched Battery Life: Offers up to 550 days of battery life under normal use, stretching up to 790 days in power-saving mode, heavily outlasting typical competitors like Apple AirTags.

Outlook

Samsung has significantly elevated its tracking game with the SmartTag3. By introducing cross-OS support, a smaller and lighter puck design, and extended battery life, Samsung has created a universal tracking device that everyone—including iPhone users—should consider.