Apple releases ‘Find My Certification’ app for accessory makers
Apple has released a new app, Find My Certification Asst., on the App Store over the weekend for third-party accessory makers to test their products with the Find My network, after Apple announced last year that it would introduce a new “Find My network,” that would allow accessory makers to integrate the Find My technology into their products to allow customers to locate their belongings with the Apple Find My infrastructure.
As spotted by TechCrunch, the new app launched over the past weekend for MFi (Made for iPhone) licensees. Apple says the app is intended for testing the discovery, connection, and other key requirements for accessories that integrate with the Find My network, which Apple is expected to make live over the coming weeks.
Last month, the third developer beta of iOS 14.5 revealed that Apple would add a new ‘Items’ tab to the Find My app on iPhone and iPad that will allow users to track the location of compatible third-party accessories and eventually, Apple’s rumored AirTags, which could be announced later this month.
AirTags have been rumored for almost two years. The small item trackers are expected to be introduced to allow users to track their belongings, such as wallets, backpacks, and keys, in the Find My app on iPhone and iPad, which will send notifications as soon as the user becomes separated from their valuables, with the exception of when items have been left behind at a pre-defined “Safe Location”, such as at the user’s home or workplace.
The App Store description for the Find My Certification Asst. app reads, “For use by MFi Licensees only. Use the Find My Certification Assistant to test discovery, connection, and other key requirements for accessories you develop that incorporate Find My network technology. For more information about Find My network certification, visit the MFi Portal at mfi.apple.com.”