Apple has launched the second-generation AirTag, marking the first major update to its item tracking accessory since the original debuted five years ago. The new model brings several meaningful upgrades while maintaining the same price point and core design philosophy that made the first version popular among iPhone users.
Extended Range Through New Ultra Wideband Chip
The most significant upgrade in AirTag 2 centers on Precision Finding, the feature that provides haptic, visual, and audio feedback to help locate lost items. Apple has equipped the new tracker with a second-generation Ultra Wideband chip that extends Precision Finding range by up to 1.5x compared to the original model. This improvement should make it easier to locate items from greater distances before needing to move closer for pinpoint accuracy.
Additionally, Apple Watch users can now leverage Precision Finding directly from their wrist with compatible models running watchOS 26.2.1 or later. This functionality was not available with the first-generation AirTag, representing a notable expansion in how users can interact with the tracking accessory.
Improved Audio and Bluetooth Performance
Speaker Volume Increase
Apple has addressed one of the most common complaints about the original AirTag by incorporating a speaker that delivers up to 50% more volume. According to Apple’s specifications, users should be able to hear the ping sound from up to twice as far away as before. This upgrade directly addresses situations where users could trigger the sound but struggled to hear it in noisy environments or when the AirTag was tucked into bags or cushions.
Enhanced Bluetooth Range
The new AirTag includes an upgraded Bluetooth chip that Apple says expands the range at which items can be located. While the company has not provided specific measurements for this improvement, the enhancement works alongside the Ultra Wideband upgrades to provide better overall tracking performance across different scenarios and distances.
Privacy and Security Enhancements
Unwanted tracking became a concern shortly after the original AirTag launched, prompting Apple to implement various software-based protections over the years. With AirTag 2, the company has built additional safeguards into the hardware itself. The new model includes cross-platform alerts and Bluetooth identifiers that change frequently, making it more difficult for bad actors to use the device for unauthorized tracking of people or pets.
Apple describes these as industry-first protections, though the full scope of the security improvements beyond the two specifically mentioned features remains unclear.
What Remains Unchanged
Despite the functional improvements, Apple has maintained consistency in several key areas. The physical design and dimensions of AirTag 2 match the original, which means existing accessories including keychains, loops, and holders will work with the new model without modification. The devices are visually nearly identical, requiring careful examination of model information to distinguish between generations.
Battery life continues to be rated at more than one year of use with the standard CR2032 coin cell battery. Users looking for extended battery life can still use third-party solutions like battery cases that accept larger cells.
Pricing remains at $29 for a single AirTag and $99 for a four-pack, matching the original model’s launch pricing from 2021.
Compatibility Considerations
Not all iPhone models will support the extended Precision Finding range enabled by the new Ultra Wideband chip. Users should verify their specific iPhone model’s compatibility to understand whether they will benefit from the full range improvements. Similarly, Apple Watch Precision Finding support is limited to certain models running the latest watchOS version.
FAQ
Q: Will my existing AirTag accessories work with AirTag 2?
A: Yes. Apple maintained the same physical design and dimensions, so all first-generation AirTag accessories remain compatible with the new model.
Q: Does AirTag 2 have longer battery life?
A: No. Battery life remains rated at more than one year with a standard CR2032 battery, the same as the original AirTag.
Q: Which iPhones support the extended Precision Finding range?
A: Apple has not published a complete list, but the extended range requires an iPhone with compatible Ultra Wideband hardware. Users should check Apple’s technical specifications for their specific iPhone model.
Q: Can I use Precision Finding with my Apple Watch for the original AirTag?
A: No. Apple Watch Precision Finding support is exclusive to AirTag 2 and requires a compatible Apple Watch running watchOS 26.2.1 or later.
MacReview Verdict
AirTag 2 represents a thoughtful evolution rather than a revolutionary redesign. The extended Precision Finding range, louder speaker, and Apple Watch support address real-world pain points that users experienced with the original model. The privacy enhancements also demonstrate Apple’s ongoing commitment to preventing misuse of its tracking technology.
For users who already own first-generation AirTags that function adequately, the improvements may not justify an immediate upgrade. However, anyone purchasing new trackers or expanding their existing collection should opt for the second generation. The enhanced range and volume alone make it the better choice at the same price point.
The decision to maintain design continuity and pricing while delivering meaningful functional upgrades aligns with Apple’s typical product strategy. Users get better performance without needing to replace accessories or pay a premium, making AirTag 2 a solid iterative update that should serve well for the next several years.
