Apple’s second‑generation AirTag doubles the Bluetooth detection radius to roughly 120 meters, boosts the alert speaker volume by 50 percent, and gains an IP68 water‑ and dust‑resistance rating—all while keeping the $29 price. These upgrades enhance Find My tracking reliability, make the ping easier to hear in noisy settings, and protect the tag during outdoor use.
Key Improvements Overview
Extended Bluetooth Low Energy Range
The new AirTag 2 offers a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) range of about 120 meters (≈400 feet) under optimal conditions, twice the distance of the first‑generation model. This larger detection envelope reduces “offline” moments when the tag is out of reach of nearby Apple devices that relay its location to the Find My network.
Louder Alert Speaker
Apple has upgraded the speaker to emit a sound that is roughly 50 percent louder than before. The amplified “ping” is easier to hear in noisy environments such as gyms, cafés, or outdoor areas, while still working with the Ultra‑Wideband (UWB) precision‑finding capabilities of compatible iPhone models.
IP68 Water and Dust Resistance
With an IP68 rating, AirTag 2 can survive immersion in up to 2 meters of water for 30 minutes and is protected against dust ingress. This improvement expands use cases to include keys, backpacks, outdoor gear, and even pet collars that may encounter moisture or dust.
Design, Battery Life, and Pricing
Visually, AirTag 2 retains the compact, disc‑shaped form factor of its predecessor. It continues to use a replaceable CR2032 coin cell battery, which Apple estimates will last about one year under typical usage. Pricing remains unchanged at $29 USD for a single unit or $99 USD for a four‑pack.
How the Enhancements Impact Users
The extended Bluetooth range means fewer “lost‑but‑unfound” scenarios, allowing users to locate items in larger homes, vehicles, or public venues before the Find My network is invoked. The louder speaker addresses a common complaint about the original ping being difficult to hear in bustling environments, providing a clearer audible cue.
Developer and Ecosystem Benefits
By improving hardware capabilities without altering the software stack, Apple can deliver the enhancements to existing iOS devices via a simple firmware update, preserving backward compatibility. The unchanged price point suggests that incremental hardware costs are offset by economies of scale and the continued growth of the Find My network, which now includes billions of active Apple devices worldwide.
Market Outlook
The IP68 rating opens new use cases for outdoor equipment, travel luggage, and pet accessories that may be exposed to water or dust. Maintaining the same price encourages bulk purchases for families or businesses managing multiple assets, reinforcing AirTag’s position as a versatile, cost‑effective tracking solution.
Conclusion
Apple’s second‑generation AirTag delivers tangible upgrades—double Bluetooth range, a 50 percent louder speaker, and IP68 protection—without raising the price. These refinements enhance the reliability of the Find My network, improve everyday usability, and keep Apple’s tracker competitive in a crowded market. Users can expect a smoother, more resilient experience when locating the items that matter most.
