Apple’s second‑generation AirTag, dubbed AirTag 2, expands the Find My ecosystem with a noticeably longer Bluetooth‑LE range and a louder built‑in speaker, while keeping the original’s compact coin shape. The internal hardware refresh also improves responsiveness and battery efficiency, delivering faster location updates without compromising the privacy‑first design that defines Apple’s tracker.
Key Upgrades in Apple AirTag 2
Extended Bluetooth Range
The new AirTag 2 offers an expanded Bluetooth‑LE range, allowing users to locate items from a greater distance when the tag is within reach of any iPhone, iPad, or Mac participating in the Find My network. This longer range reduces “offline” moments and improves the likelihood of a successful locate.
Louder Built‑In Speaker
Apple has upgraded the speaker to emit a louder tone, making it easier to pinpoint a misplaced keyring, bag, or other item in noisy environments. The enhanced sound is especially useful for items hidden under cushions, in drawers, or in crowded public spaces.
Internal Performance Enhancements
While Apple has not disclosed all technical details, the internal refresh improves tag responsiveness and battery efficiency. Users can expect faster location updates and longer battery life without sacrificing the device’s slim, coin‑shaped form factor.
How AirTag 2 Works with Find My Network
Crowd‑Sourced Location Sharing
AirTag 2 continues to rely on Apple’s crowd‑sourced Find My network. When an AirTag is near any participating Apple device, encrypted location data is relayed to the owner’s Find My app, providing real‑time updates while preserving privacy.
Precision Finding with Ultra‑Wideband
Compatible iPhone models equipped with Ultra‑Wideband (UWB) can use Precision Finding to guide users with on‑screen arrows and haptic feedback, delivering pinpoint accuracy when the tag is within close proximity.
User Impact and Compatibility
What Existing Owners Need to Know
The upgrade is sold as a separate SKU; existing AirTag owners will not receive a retroactive hardware update. No trade‑in or discount program has been announced, so users must purchase the new AirTag 2 to benefit from the enhancements.
Privacy and Security
Apple reaffirms that AirTag 2 maintains end‑to‑end encryption and rotating identifiers, ensuring location data cannot be linked to a specific user or device. The privacy‑centric design remains unchanged despite the hardware improvements.
Strategic Significance for Apple
Accessory Ecosystem Growth
By iterating on a popular accessory, Apple strengthens its hardware revenue stream without launching an entirely new product category. AirTag 2 complements other accessories such as Apple Watch bands and MagSafe chargers, contributing to overall services and accessories revenue.
Future IoT Possibilities
The longer range positions AirTag 2 for deeper integration with Apple’s IoT initiatives, including potential ties to HomeKit accessories and expanded use cases in logistics or enterprise environments.
Availability and Pricing
AirTag 2 is available to order now through Apple’s online store and authorized retailers. Pricing details have not been disclosed, and no bundled offers or promotional discounts have been announced at launch.
