Samsung’s Galaxy SmartTag3 arrived on US shelves on November 6, priced at $29.99 for an individual unit and $99.99 for a four-pack, bringing cross-OS compatibility alongside notable ecosystem restrictions for iPhone users.
SmartTag3 Pricing and Core Design Changes
Phonerepairguru noted that these figures reflect advertised US prices before tax, checked on October 16, 2026. Samsung released the Galaxy SmartTag3 online in black and white color options. The device carries an announced US price of US$29.99 for a single tracker and US$99.99 for a four-pack, matching the pricing structure of Apple’s AirTag.
Phonerepairguru reported that the hardware is about 35 percent smaller by volume and 33 percent lighter than previous generations. The updated model features a more uniform and compact shape than its predecessor.
However, the redesign removed the built-in attachment loop found on the SmartTag2, requiring users to purchase separate keyring accessories.
Battery Life Lasts up to 790 Days
Trustedreviews reported that Samsung promises industry-leading battery life, claiming up to 550 days under standard usage and up to 790 days when operating in Power Saving Mode. Power Saving Mode deactivates features such as Compass View, volume controls, and ringtone settings to conserve power.
Samsung includes a replaceable CR2032 coin cell battery in each tracker. Both the SmartTag3 and Apple’s AirTag carry an IP67 dust- and water-resistance rating, ensuring protection against dust and temporary water submersion.
iPhone Owners Can Use SmartThings to Find Tags
According to official compatibility documentation highlighted by Techrepublic, iPhone owners can register and locate tags directly through the SmartThings app, share them with family members, and use Search Nearby. For the first time in the series, the Galaxy SmartTag3 connects with iOS devices as well as Galaxy smartphones.
Techrepublic confirmed that three primary tools remain exclusive to compatible Galaxy devices. Despite this cross-platform addition, Samsung limits several key capabilities to Galaxy users.
- Compass View: Direction-and-distance guidance used to narrow down a nearby tag.
- Ring Phone: The option to use the tag to ring a connected phone.
- Left Behind Alert: An alert triggered when a phone loses its connection to the tagged item.
Samsung confirmed to Android Authority that the SmartTag3 does not support non-Galaxy Android phones, such as Google Pixel devices or OnePlus handsets, leaving those users unable to pair the tracker.
Bluetooth Channel Sounding Enables Compass View Tracking
ZDNET explained that Compass View is enabled by Bluetooth distance-finding technology designed to provide fine-ranging tracking. Compass View relies on Bluetooth Channel Sounding technology.
Samsung specifies that Bluetooth Channel Sounding requires specific hardware, functioning only on the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra, Galaxy Z Fold 8, Galaxy S26 Ultra, and Galaxy S26 Plus. Under unobstructed line-of-sight conditions, the feature reaches up to a 60-meter detection range.
Apple’s AirTag relies on the Apple Find My network, which requires an Apple Account and an iPhone running iOS 26 or later. The SmartTag3 operates on the Galaxy Find Network, which utilizes participating Galaxy devices worldwide as finding nodes to relay location updates.
Companion Audio Gear and Voice Features
The earbuds provide up to 9.5 hours of playback time on a single charge, while the accompanying charging case supplies an additional 38 hours. Alongside the tracker rollout, Samsung also highlighted the capabilities of its Galaxy Buds On earbuds, which pair with eligible mobile devices.
| Feature | Galaxy SmartTag3 | AirTag (2nd gen) |
|---|---|---|
| US Price | $29.99 (single) / $99.99 (four-pack) | $29 (single) / $99 (four-pack) |
| Finding Network | Galaxy Find Network | Apple Find My |
| iPhone Requirement | iOS 17+ | iOS 26+ |
| Directional Finding | Supported Galaxy phones only | Compatible Apple devices |
| Left-Behind Alerts on iOS | No | Yes |
| Battery Life | Up to 550 days (CR2032) | More than a year (CR2032) |