The Apple AirTag is one of the most popular Bluetooth trackers available, having become a seamless convenience for iPhone users to locate anything from lost keys to lost luggage. Though it appears modest, mainly in size and technology, its functionality and dependability have made it soar in popularity. Now, Apple seems to be planning the launch of a new and improved AirTag 2 in only a matter of months.
Also: The Apple AirTag 4-pack is down to its lowest price ever, at under $18 each
The current AirTag was released in 2021 and is still a reliable tracker powered by Bluetooth, ultra-wideband (UWB), and Apple’s enormous Find My network. But rumor has it that a new AirTag is coming to the market in mid-2025, which could be announced during Apple’s iPad event this spring or the Worldwide Developer’s Conference (WWDC) in June.
What we expect from the Apple AirTag 2
For months, rumors have swirled around about what we can expect with the Apple AirTag 2, though the company hasn’t confirmed any of them. Here’s what we will likely see with a new AirTag:
-
Expanded tracking range: The new AirTag 2 is expected to feature Apple’s latest UWB chip, released in the iPhone 15 and Apple Watch Ultra 2. This chip could give the tracker up to three times the range, or up to 300 feet. Currently, the iPhone can use precision finding of an AirTag up to 100 feet away.
-
Improved security and anti-stalking features: Because of its discreet appearance and precise location tracking, the AirTag was initially misused for stalking people. Apple made changes to prevent this, including adding constant notifications for both Apple and Android users when an AirTag was found moving with them. For the AirTag 2, Apple is rumored to have made the built-in speaker more challenging to remove than before, which can audibly alert a person when an AirTag is away from its owner and consistently nearby.
-
Apple Vision Pro integrations: Apple is rumored to have big plans for the AirTag 2 beyond tracking frequently lost items. Rumors say the AirTag 2 could play a key role in spatial computing with the Apple Vision Pro by using the UWB feature to track motion. This may or may not happen immediately, as Apple could introduce the feature through a firmware update later.
Also: I found a wallet AirTag alternative that’s more functional than Apple’s – and it works with Android
What we will likely not see in the AirTag 2
Though AirTag users, myself included, have a long wish list of features for a new model, Apple isn’t expected to address some of its customers’ most significant concerns. Though you never know; the company may still surprise us.
-
New design: AirTag users have long wished for an improved AirTag design that doesn’t require an extra accessory to attach the tracker to frequently lost items. As a round and thick device lacking a hole to attach to a keychain or string, you must buy enclosures to add an AirTag to your keys or a wallet to put your AirTag in. Apple is rumored to maintain the AirTag’s round, coin-shaped design with the new model, with no significant redesigns in work. While this is a great way to ensure new AirTags fit into existing accessories, I’m hoping the company will find a way to add a hole for greater convenience.
-
MagSafe charging: AirTags are powered by a replaceable CR2032 battery that can last up to a year. Some users have expressed wishes for a rechargeable battery and MagSafe support, but Apple plans to maintain the replaceable battery feature. A rechargeable battery at this time could increase the AirTag’s price, require constant recharging, and make the device bulkier.
Also: How to find out if an AirTag is tracking you – and what to do about it
When will the AirTag 2 be released?
The AirTag 2 is expected to be released in mid-2025.
A new AirTag was first rumored to be in the works in June 2022, but Apple delayed its release due to overproduction of the first model. Apple reportedly had too many first-generation AirTags and wanted to sell these before releasing a new model.
Also: I found the most complete wireless charging accessory yet – and it has a useful cooling system
In support of rumors of an imminent 2025 release, Apple is holding AirTag sales of the first model, offering them at historically low prices for the past month. This indicates a desire to sell off current stock and make space for a new model.
What is ultra-wideband (UWB)?
Ultra-wideband (UWB) is a wireless communication protocol for high-precision location tracking with low power consumption. This short-range technology transmits data over a wide frequency spectrum above 500MHz, hence the term ultra-wideband, which makes it less prone to interference.
Also: Can you make an AirTag last 10 years? It took me seconds to do it
UWB enables device tracking down to a few inches, making it more accurate than Bluetooth and GPS. You can track your AirTag down to a few feet and then a few inches. This technology is used in trackers, like the AirTag, smartphones, some car keys, augmented reality (AR), and, more recently, smart locks.
How does the Apple Find My network work?
Apple created the Find My network as a crowdsourced network of iPhones and other Apple devices worldwide. This location-tracking system uses nearby Apple devices to detect the Bluetooth signal of other lost items, such as AirTags and AirPods, and then sends their location to Apple’s servers.
The owner of the lost device can then see this location on a map within the Apple Find My app, even if they’re several miles or several countries away. The more iPhones in an area, the stronger the Find My network is.
Also: Finally, Bluetooth trackers for Android users that function even better than AirTags
If someone loses an AirTag or AirPods somewhere and goes about their day, anyone with an iPhone near the device will help update this device’s location without even knowing. The only way to lose an Apple Find My device and not find it is if there are no iPhones nearby or if the device is offline and was moved after being offline.
