AirTag 2: Essential Insights Before You Upgrade
Apple has unveiled the second-generation AirTag, enhancing the original item tracker with improved range, louder sound, and innovative methods to locate misplaced belongings. While maintaining its familiar design, AirTag 2 introduces several significant upgrades that streamline daily tracking, particularly for Apple Watch users.
Key Enhancements in AirTag 2:
1. Extended Precision Finding Range: The incorporation of the second-generation Ultra Wideband (UWB 2) chip allows Precision Finding to function approximately 1.5 times farther than its predecessor. This advancement enables users to begin locating items like keys or bags from greater distances, even from separate rooms.
2. Integration with Apple Watch: For the first time, Precision Finding is accessible directly from the wrist. Compatible with Apple Watch Series 9 and later, as well as Apple Watch Ultra 2 and subsequent models, the watch provides directional and distance cues through haptics, visuals, and sound, mirroring the iPhone experience.
3. Enhanced Audio Output: The speaker in AirTag 2 is up to 50% louder, facilitating easier detection when playing a sound. This improvement also adds a layer of security, as the sound is more challenging to muffle.
4. Upgraded Bluetooth Connectivity: Utilizing a newer Bluetooth standard with an extended range, AirTag 2 ensures more reliable connections.
5. Redesigned Internal Structure: The internal layout has been modified to accommodate the louder speaker. Additionally, rumors suggest that this redesign makes tampering more difficult, though confirmation awaits a detailed teardown.
6. Slight Increase in Weight: Weighing 11.8 grams, AirTag 2 is approximately 7% heavier than the original model.
7. Updated Back Text: The text on the back now appears in capital letters and lists features such as IP67 water and dust resistance, NFC, and Find My. While these features existed previously, they are now explicitly printed on the device.
Consistent Features:
Despite these enhancements, several aspects remain unchanged, ensuring compatibility with existing accessories:
– Battery: Continues to use a CR2032 coin battery, with a lifespan of over a year.
– Size: Maintains the same physical dimensions, allowing current AirTag accessories to fit seamlessly.
– Functionality: Retains compatibility with the Find My network, Lost Mode, and NFC for contact details.
– Location Sharing: Supports location sharing with others, beneficial for tracking luggage during travel.
Intended Use:
Apple reiterates that AirTag is designed exclusively for tracking objects. The product page and announcement emphasize that it is not intended for tracking people or pets, despite some users employing it for such purposes.
Resetting AirTag 2:
The reset process has been modified and now requires additional steps:
1. Remove the battery.
2. Wait at least five seconds.
3. Reinsert the battery.
4. Repeat this process four times.
5. Wait for the final tone, which may take up to 12 seconds.
This differs from the original AirTag, where waiting between battery removals was unnecessary.
Software Requirements:
AirTag 2 necessitates iOS 26.2.1 or later. Devices unable to run iOS 26 will not be compatible with the new AirTag.
Pricing and Availability:
AirTag 2 is priced identically to its predecessor:
– $29 for a single AirTag
– $99 for a four-pack
– Free engraving included
Orders are available starting today, with deliveries commencing on Wednesday, January 28.
After five years, Apple has preserved the simplicity of the AirTag design while introducing meaningful upgrades. With extended range, Apple Watch support, and a louder speaker, AirTag 2 enhances the ease of locating everyday items.
