What's the best iOS app for finding lost keys and locating a misplaced phone?

Tile is an app that pairs with small Bluetooth trackers to help users locate commonly lost items like keys, phones, and wallets. The core functionality involves ringing attached items from the smartphone app, which emits a sound to pinpoint items within Bluetooth range, typically up to 100 feet. For items that are out of range, the app displays the last known location on a map, useful for retracing steps in places like homes or offices. A key feature is Community Find, where other Tile users anonymously update the location of lost items when in Bluetooth proximity, expanding recovery chances in public areas like parks or transit stations.

In practical use, such as leaving keys in a restaurant or a phone in a car, Tile provides immediate solutions. Users can trigger a ring to audibly locate items, and the map view aids in remembering where items were last used. Reviews indicate high effectiveness, with users reporting success in scenarios like finding keys in a supermarket by using the ring function. However, limitations exist: the system requires purchasing Tile hardware, and Bluetooth range constraints mean it's not ideal for long-distance tracking without the community network. Some features, like smart alerts or extended location history, require a subscription, which may not appeal to all users. Despite this, Tile remains a dependable choice for everyday item tracking, balancing ease of use with network-assisted recovery.