Rolling Square Airnotch Pro Review

First Impressions of the AirNotch Pro

The market is growing more and more with Bluetooth trackers. Before the only real solution for Android I had tested was the Samsung Galaxy SmartTag 2, but with more and more third parties joining it can hard to stand out. But I do love the design of the AirNotch Pro. The plastic material is textured, which is an odd design choice considering most modern tech likes to follow the smooth and futuristic design. It is cool though and does make it stand out. The more I use it the more I discover little hidden features I never considered.

Setting up the AirNotch Pro

Trying to set the AirNotch Pro is a relatively simple process. You just have to turn it on, tap to the back of your device with the Google Find Hub open and pair. Simple right? Unfortunately for me it didn’t quite go so smoothly. I tried and tried but the app could not find my device. The same issue persisted with the AirCard Pro so I figured it was my device. This turned out to be the case, because as soon as I tried it on my tablet both devices paired instantly.

I did reset both devices to try reconnecting using my phone. After resetting my phone it worked instantly again. So the process is easy, if it doesn’t work straight away just switch your phone off and on and it should work. The AirNotch does have a black, Apple version which I have been unable to test, but from experience Apple’s system is relatively similar.

Packability

Like any tracker tag should be, this is a nice small size. I had too many places that I could have used my AirNotch Pro, so instead I decided to put on my DJI Pocket Osmo case instead. I am always paranoid I have left my camera behind, not just for the value but also for any memories still on the SD card.

Trackers are there to protect what you care about, and with the Air range coming in so many shapes and sizes, you have one for everywhere. Tag’s are the most versatile product in the range though, so if you are unsure what is best, I’d recommend this. You can clip it onto keys or bag loops, or you can slip it inside a bag. I have done this on on some of my bags where the buckles are a bit big you can slip it inside. I often use a Nite-Ize S-Biner Microlock to attach it, since it is easier than tying it on a loop and I can quickly swap it between bags if needed.

The Air Family

The AirNotch Pro is just the start in a range of products all within the Air Title. This tracker is one of the more recent releases along with the updated AirCard Pro. Both are trackers but designed for different items. Where the AirCard Pro is made to fit in a wallet or slim pocket, the AirNotch Pro is a tag that can be hung onto a keyring. Although mine remains clipped onto my Pocket Osmo Carry Case. 

Glow in the Dark

It’s such a small little feature, and its such a fantastic idea, I cannot believe no other brand has thought of it. But it makes perfect sense. The AirNotch Pro has small little sections that glow in the dark, making it much easier to find when I have lost it in the depths of my bag. 90% of the time that’s where I’ve lost my keys anyway. I set the alarm to try and find it, and end up rummaging around able to hear them but not see them. Now I have a visual cue to look for as well.

Battery Life

Instead of being rechargeable, the AirNotch Pro uses two replacable CR2032 batteries. Two are already included. They do optimise the technology to get the best balance of volume for the alarm, longevity for tracking and battery life. But how long the battery last is largely impacted by the quality of the batteries you use. 

Replacing the batteries is really easy, you just twist the cover and insert. You can use the provided split ring to twist and open. I would give a word of warning here, I did find the plastic of the AirNotch Pro to be very soft. So when I replaced it there are a few scratches on the case. My AirNotch Pro is white for android, so it doesn’t show up as much, but I’m not sure if the same can be said for the black Apple variant.

I will say I can’t see this affecting the durability a huge amount, as it isn’t a daily occurrence. But it is just something to pay attention to when swapping batteries.

Using the Google Find My App

I find the Google Find My Device app really simple and easy to use, in fact its almost too simple. Adding a new device can be an issue as I mentioned whilst setting up, and that is entirely down to the app itself. Once a device is set up, it’s really easy to find what you need and track. I have a few trackers now, some attached to keys, others bags. I have an AirCard Pro that Rolling Square sent along with the AirNotch Pro. And I can easily find the device I’m searching for.

Durability

Despite my earlier mention of the plastic feeling a little soft, I’ve had this for a few weeks now and no issue. I haven’t exactly been gentle with it either, moving it from various bags and letting it get bashed about. It’s been perfectly fine, The edges are reinforced with CNC machines aluminium, and that takes the majority of any knocks.  

How does the AirNotch Pro compare to other tags?

I haven’t had a huge amount of use of the Apple AirTag, which of course is the industry’s biggest competitor. The closest I have to compare is the Samsung SmartTag 2. In terms of setting up, the process is very similar. I think Google’s system is more accurate which is vital for these devices. I also think the the AirNotch Pro goes beyond just tracking, by actually thinking about what elements you use to find it. With glow in the dark plastic to help locate it visually, and a louder speaker to play an alarm and help narrow down its location. 

Rolling Square AirNotch Pro: Final Thoughts

With such a competitive market, thats almost dominated by Apple, its refreshing to see new innovations being made. The trackers are fantastic, but most trackers are nowadays. So Rolling Square have decided to think outside the box. Since Google and Apple already have such well-established networks, instead of trying to create their own, they take advantage of their systems whilst making the physical designs of their trackers stand out.

There has been a lot of thought put into the practicality and usability of the designs. It’s all well and good being able to track something, but finding it is another thing altogether. By being louder and more visible, the Rolling Square AirNotch manages to stay a cut above the rest.

Since writing this review, Rolling Square have released a newer version in the form of the AirNotch Pro Dual. Which I have reviewed here.

You can use the code “BRADSBACKPACK20” on RollingSquare.com for 20% off your first purchase.