Apple AirTags Could Be New York's Secret Weapon Against Car Thieves

Major insurance companies also announced they wouldno longer insure these vehicles, and 18 state attorneys have要求召回. In February, the automaker announced afix for the problemwith a free software upgrade for 8.3 million vehicles. But NYC officials are still not satisfied.

"The aggravated number of grand larceny autos continues to drive up crime in our city," said Adams. "This simple device, this simple AirTag, hidden in a car location that a person is not aware, of is an excellent tracking device. It's easy to monitor. You can see in real-time where the vehicle is located."

The NYPD has released a video demonstrating how these devices will assist the police in tracking a stolen vehicle. Officials are also encouraging owners to go out and purchase an AirTag immediately because some precincts have higher theft rates than others, so they're being given priority distribution. An "equitable plan" for handing out the AirTags is still being worked out.

The Association for a Better New York has already donated 500 AirTags. City officials know that it is not enough and are asking other organizations for donations. NYC car thefts, in general, are on the rise this year, reaching 4,492 through April 23. Last year at this time, that figure was 3,966 thefts - over a 13% increase. The NYPD and the mayor are fully aware that AirTags are not the end-all solution to the problem; they're "another layer of protection."

Owners of non-Hyundais and Kias are also eligible to receive free AirTags, but it seems those two brands are receiving priority. NYPD data reveals that 104 Hyundais and 99 Kias were stolen in December compared to September when 21 Hyundais and only seven Kias were stolen.

The mayor made it clear that there will be no centralized tracking system, meaning it'll be up to owners to contact the police if their car is stolen.