A surprise before Pixel 11
Just weeks before Google's August 12 hardware event, a new tracker called the 'Google Pixel Tag' has surfaced. 9to5Google obtained an image of the device, and online listings have appeared carrying the model number GA12506, along with the marketing name 'Google Pixel Tag' and the color 'Fog Light.' One listing shows the variant GA12506-WW. The Verge says a Slovenian store listing described the device, and notes that Google's Find My Device network is now called Find Hub.[S1][S2][S3]
Google has not yet released its own first-party competitor to Apple's AirTag, even though it has built the Find Hub network on Android. The Pixel Tag would change that, according to a marketing description in one listing: it is a compact, lightweight and durable smart tracker that attaches to keys, wallets or luggage and uses Google's secure 'Find My Device' network. The description adds a loud speaker for easy nearby search and says it is designed with privacy in mind.[S1][S3]
Design and specs still unclear
The Pixel Tag's shape is unusual, according to 9to5Google: it is oblong rather than circular or square, and it appears taller than Samsung's Galaxy SmartTag, almost like the shape of the Fitbit Air without its band. Another outlet describes the device as a 'little puck' close in shape to the Fitbit Air. The tracker seems to lack a built-in mounting mechanism, so it may rely on cases similar to Apple's AirTag.[S1][S2]
Android Authority notes that there is still no direct evidence of ultra-wideband (UWB) support, and it raises the question of how the tracker will be powered: a replaceable disposable battery like an AirTag, or something rechargeable. The same outlet says the Pixel Tag's identity now feels certain, and it expects answers on August 12. Android Police has said UWB support would be a huge boost over other Android trackers, and it hopes Google will use Channel Sounding and make the Pixel Tag compatible with all Android devices.[S4][S5]
A crowded market
Samsung is already preparing a third-generation Galaxy SmartTag, and other phone manufacturers have had their own tracking solutions for years. Despite building out the Android Find Hub, Google has yet to offer its own smart tag, which Android Authority calls an oversight. Android Police says a Google-branded tag could take the product past its tipping point, after years of looking for a smart tag that outperforms the AirTag and other Android solutions.[S4][S5]
Launch and price
One European listing shows a price close to €30, according to Droid Life, which adds that it could launch in the US at approximately $30. Droid Life also says Google might shorten the color name to 'Fog' at launch. Android Police notes there is no guarantee the Pixel Tag will appear at the event, but the outlet hopes it will be announced. Google did not immediately reply to a request for comment from The Verge.[S2][S5][S3]
The Pixel Tag appears shortly before Google's planned hardware event on August 12, where the Pixel 11 lineup is expected. Leaks have also appeared for a new foldable, smartwatch and earbuds, with Android Authority specifically mentioning the Pixel Watch 5 and a new Pixel Buds Pro 2 colorway. Earlier Pixel 11 listings mentioned a Pixel Tag, but no such tracker existed at the time; 9to5Google says the tracker has not surfaced prior to now, so a release date is unclear.[S3][S4][S1]
