News
Apple to offer free Find My iPhone to some users
By Charles Starrett
Senior Editor, iLounge
Published: Monday, November 22, 2010
News Category: iPad, iPhone, iPod
Apple has announced that alongside today’s release of iOS 4.2, users of the iPad, iPhone 4, and fourth-generation iPod touch will receive free Find My iPhone service. Previously limited to users who have a paid MobileMe account, Find My iPhone lets users locate missing devices, have them display messages or play sounds, and remotely wipe or lock lost devices. For users that don’t have a MobileMe account, the feature will use their standard Apple IDs instead. Apple is expected to release iOS 4.2 for the iPad, iPhone, and iPod touch later today.
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1
My question: how are fourth-generation iPod Touch users (like myself) going to benefit from a technology which requires always-on internet connectivity (like the iPhone’s) to be useful? Someone help?
Posted by Clint on November 23, 2010 at 3:49 AM (PDT)
2
If they have your touch and start to play around with it and get on wifi… I mean must people who steal touches won’t wipe them right away.
Posted by Sid32 on November 23, 2010 at 8:55 AM (PDT)
3
It doesn’t really ‘require’ always-on connectivity. As Sid32 pointed out, it might not get wiped right away. Just because someone steals an iPod doesn’t mean he/she has any knowledge about, or interest in the device. He/she may just need some easy money or enjoys the thrill of stealing. A thief might not even be aware of the location feature. Depending on your settings, the iPod may automatically seek out a wi-fi connection and possibly be able to connect. It obviously won’t provide real-time location reporting, but a ‘last reported’ location might just be enough to help you locate the device. At least it’s free now.
Posted by Paul on November 23, 2010 at 10:35 AM (PDT)
4
At least you will be able to use your iPod Touch to find your (or someone else’s) iPhone or iPad. Keep in mind that the service is called ‘Find My iPhone’ and not ‘Find My iPod Touch’.
Honestly owners of the iPod Touch should be happy that Apple has brought the experience so close to that of owning the iPhone. Those who aren’t happy should just break down and buy an iPhone.
I used to have an iPod Touch - and now that I have an iPhone 4, I could never go back to a life without a constant connection.
Posted by Miller on November 23, 2010 at 1:28 PM (PDT)
5
@Paul
thanks that helps clear things up a bit
Posted by Clint on November 23, 2010 at 9:37 PM (PDT)