Apple’s second‑generation AirTag adds a twice‑as‑loud speaker, extended Bluetooth range, and a dedicated ultra‑wideband (UWB) chip while keeping the $29 price unchanged, delivering more reliable item tracking across the Find My network and tighter Apple Watch integration.
Key Hardware Upgrades
Twice‑Loud Speaker
The new speaker is marketed as “twice as loud,” making the “play sound” function audible in noisy environments such as airports, gyms, or crowded streets, where the original model often fell short.
Extended Bluetooth Range
Bluetooth connectivity now reaches farther, allowing the AirTag to stay linked to a paired iPhone or iPad at greater distances before relying on the Find My network, which crowdsources anonymous location data from nearby Apple devices.
Dedicated UWB Chip for Precision Finding
A built‑in ultra‑wideband (UWB) chip provides centimeter‑level directional tracking when used with an iPhone equipped with Apple’s U1 chip. This upgrade reduces latency and improves accuracy, especially on iPhone 14 and later models.
Software Enhancements
- Apple Watch integration now lets users trigger the “play sound” command directly from the watch’s Control Center.
- iOS 17 expands airline‑bag tracking mode, supporting more airline partners and benefiting from the longer Bluetooth range.
Why the Upgrade Matters
The original AirTag faced criticism for a modest speaker volume and occasional difficulty locating tags just beyond Bluetooth range. By addressing these pain points without raising the price, Apple reinforces the AirTag as the default personal‑item‑tracking accessory, competing more effectively against alternatives that already offer UWB and louder alerts.
Privacy and Security
Apple continues to use end‑to‑end encryption for the Find My network, ensuring location data remains anonymous and never linked to the owner’s Apple ID. The added UWB chip does not change this model; tags still broadcast encrypted identifiers that only the owner’s devices can decode. Audible alerts also warn users if an unknown AirTag is traveling with them.
Future Outlook
While no third‑generation AirTag has been announced, Apple’s pattern of incremental upgrades suggests future versions could incorporate additional sensors—such as temperature or motion detection—to broaden use cases beyond simple item tracking.
Conclusion
Apple AirTag 2 delivers a louder speaker, longer Bluetooth reach, a dedicated UWB chip, and tighter Apple Watch and airline‑bag tracking integration—all at the same $29 price point. These enhancements directly respond to user feedback, strengthening Apple’s position in the growing personal‑item‑tracking market.
