Battery with Apple's "Where is it?" for Sony cameras

A new battery designed for Sony cameras has been developed with Apple’s “Where Is?” feature, offering users an innovative way to locate lost equipment. The product, called TagBatt, integrates Apple’s tracking technology into custom-built batteries compatible with several popular Sony camera models. This development comes amid growing demand among professional photographers, enthusiasts, and hobbyists who continue to rely on high-end cameras despite the rise of smartphone photography. The TagBatt battery is based on Sony’s NP-FZ100 form factor, which is widely used in many Alpha series models. It supports a range of Sony cameras including the A1, A7, A9, a6700, FX2, FX3, FX30, and ZV-E1. The battery offers a capacity of 2600 mAh and 17.43 Wh, slightly more than the original Sony batteries, while being lighter. Users can track their devices using Apple’s “Where Is?” app, which works through Bluetooth and Ultra-Wideband technology. Unlike the original Sony versions, TagBatt includes a built-in USB-C port for direct charging, eliminating the need for a separate charger. An LED indicator shows the remaining charge level. The functionality of the “Where Is?” feature operates similarly to other Apple-compatible trackers. Once registered in the app, users can monitor the location of their camera via the Apple ecosystem. However, this feature is exclusive to Apple devices, meaning non-Apple users will not benefit from the tracking capability. The integration of Apple’s technology into third-party accessories highlights the increasing influence of Apple’s ecosystem beyond its own products. Currently, the TagBatt battery is available for purchase in the United States through major retailers such as B&H Photo Video. It is sold as a NP-FZ100 variant and also includes an LP-E6 version suitable for Canon EOS models like the 5D, 6D, 7D, 60D, 70D, 80D, 90D, C50, R5, R6, and R7. Each unit costs approximately 70 US dollars. In contrast, Sony’s original NP-FZ100 batteries are priced similarly, though they lack the integrated tracking features. The company plans to expand its offerings to include batteries for Nikon and Fujifilm models in the future. Despite the promising features, the TagBatt battery is not yet available in Europe. The Falcam website for the European Union does not list the product, although it previously had a price tag of 69 euros including shipping. This discrepancy suggests potential regional distribution challenges or strategic decisions by the manufacturer. The absence of availability in key markets may limit immediate adoption, especially among European professionals who often prefer local suppliers. The introduction of TagBatt represents a shift in how photographers approach device security. As high-end cameras remain costly investments, the ability to recover lost or stolen gear becomes increasingly valuable. While Apple’s tracking system is limited to its own devices, the integration into third-party hardware opens up possibilities for broader adoption. This trend reflects a growing market need for enhanced security solutions tailored to specialized equipment. As more manufacturers explore similar technologies, the landscape for camera accessories is likely to evolve significantly.