The concept is simple yet ingenious: hide an AirTag in your car, and if it’s stolen, you can pinpoint its location using Apple’s Find My app. Unlike built-in GPS systems that some newer cars boast, AirTags are affordable—typically $20-$30—and discreet, making them a practical add-on for any vehicle. Denver police hope this will not only help recover stolen cars faster but also deter thieves who spot the accompanying DenverTrack decals warning, “This vehicle can be traced by police if stolen.”
The giveaway kicks off with in-person registration events from March 19 to March 21, where drivers can snag a free tracker after signing up online. AppleInsider reports that participants must bring their vehicle registration and the phone they’ll use to pair the device—volunteers will even assist with setup. For those who miss out on the 450 units, the program still encourages registering existing trackers or buying their own to join the effort.
Why Denver’s Betting on AirTags
Auto theft has been a nagging issue in Colorado, though Denver’s seen some progress—down 33% from 2024, which itself dropped 29% from 2023, per police stats. Still, the numbers remain high enough to warrant creative solutions. AirTags have already proven their worth in real-world recoveries, from police tracking stolen vehicles to owners reuniting with their rides. The trackers tap into Apple’s vast Find My network, leveraging nearby iPhones to relay location data with impressive accuracy.
The DenverTrack program doesn’t give police direct access to your AirTag’s data—privacy stays intact. Instead, if your car is stolen, you report it via 911, confirm your DenverTrack registration, and share the tracker’s location with officers. It’s a collaborative approach that empowers citizens while streamlining police response.
A Growing Trend in Tech-Driven Policing
Denver isn’t the first to tap AirTags for crime prevention. In January, Arvada, Colorado, launched a similar giveaway, and cities like New York and Washington, D.C., have also distributed trackers to combat theft spikes. The appeal is clear: AirTags are cheap, effective, and user-friendly. Plus, with a visible decal, they might just make a thief think twice before targeting a registered vehicle.
Posts on X reflect a mix of enthusiasm and skepticism. Some Denverites cheer the freebie as a smart recovery tool, while others doubt it’ll prevent thefts outright, noting savvy criminals could hunt down and ditch the trackers. Still, the consensus leans toward it being a low-risk, high-reward move—especially since the Colorado Auto Theft Prevention Authority is footing the bill.
What It Means for Drivers
For Denver’s tech-savvy drivers, this is a no-brainer perk. Pairing an AirTag with your car takes minutes, and the Find My app makes tracking a breeze. It’s not foolproof—thieves could strip the car or ship it off before you react—but it’s a layer of protection that beats relying solely on luck or traditional police work. Plus, it’s free for the first 450 takers, a rare win in an era of rising costs.
The broader impact hinges on execution. If DenverTrack cuts recovery times and boosts arrests, it could inspire more cities to follow suit. For now, it’s a practical step forward—one that blends Apple’s innovation with good old-fashioned problem-solving. As the giveaway rolls out this Friday, March 21, Denver drivers have a fresh reason to feel a little safer behind the wheel.
