Abstract: A tracking device can be configured into a “lost” operating mode in response to a physical trigger that does not require communication with a tracking system of the tracking device. The tracking device periodically transmits identification information to nearby mobile devices that relay the information to the tracking system. However, a user that is not able to communicate with the tracking system can interact with a physical input of the tracking device. In response to the interaction, the tracking device configures itself to operate in the lost mode. When configured in the lost mode, the tracking device can increase the frequency at which it transmits beacon signals with its identification information. Additionally, when the tracking device is configured in the lost mode, it includes a lost indicator in its transmissions, so that devices that receive its transmissions are able to notify the tracking system that the tracking device is lost.

Abstract: A tracking device can be configured into a “lost” operating mode in response to a physical trigger that does not require communication with a tracking system of the tracking device. The tracking device periodically transmits identification information to nearby mobile devices that relay the information to the tracking system. However, a user that is not able to communicate with the tracking system can interact with a physical input of the tracking device. In response to the interaction, the tracking device configures itself to operate in the lost mode. When configured in the lost mode, the tracking device can increase the frequency at which it transmits beacon signals with its identification information. Additionally, when the tracking device is configured in the lost mode, it includes a lost indicator in its transmissions, so that devices that receive its transmissions are able to notify the tracking system that the tracking device is lost.

Abstract: A tracking system can aid in the retrieval of a lost tracking device by facilitating communication between users of the tracking system. The users are able to specify privacy controls describing permitted communication settings for a communication session established by the tracking system. Specifically, the tracking system may receive privacy controls from an owner of the tracking device. Upon receiving a communication updating the location of the lost tracking device from a user other than the owner of the tracking device, the tracking system determines whether the tracking device is actually lost and identifies a “finder” of the tracking device. The tracking system then accesses the privacy controls received from the owner (and finder, if applicable) of the tracking device and establishes a communication session based on permitted communication settings described by the privacy controls.