Apple AirTag 2: Everything You Need to Know

After nearly five years, Apple’s second-generation AirTag is finally here. While AirTag 2 looks almost identical to the original and keeps the same core tracking experience, it brings several meaningful hardware upgrades designed to improve range, sound quality, and overall tracking precision.

Here’s the complete breakdown of the Apple’s next-generation item tracker, Apple AirTag 2.

UWB 2 Brings Longer Precision Finding Range

The current-gen AirTag features an outdated version of Apple’s U1 Ultra Wideband chip. As a result, it can be effectively tracked using the Precision Finding feature within a range of about 10 to 15 meters.

However, Apple has already introduced a newer version of the Ultra Wideband chip with the iPhone 15 and Apple Watch Series 9. The new chip boasts an extended Precision Finding range of 60 meters. It makes perfect sense for Apple to use the same chip in the AirTag 2, as it will enable users to locate their items from farther away with greater accuracy.

Precision Finding Comes to Apple Watch

Precision Finding is no longer limited to the iPhone. AirTag 2 now supports Precision Finding on Apple Watch Series 9 and later, as well as Apple Watch Ultra 2. These models include UWB chips, allowing users to locate AirTags directly from their wrist.

Louder Speaker and Improved Bluetooth Connectivity

Apple has upgraded the AirTag 2 speaker, making it up to 50 percent louder than the original. This makes lost items easier to hear and adds an additional layer of anti-stalking protection by making alerts harder to conceal.

AirTag 2 also uses a newer Bluetooth specification, offering improved range and connectivity.

Redesigned Internals and Slightly Heavier Build

To accommodate the louder speaker, Apple reworked the internal layout of AirTag 2. While earlier rumors suggested Apple would make the speaker harder to remove, confirmation will likely come from upcoming teardown reports.

The new AirTag weighs 11.8 grams (0.42 ounces), about 7% heavier than the first-generation model.

Updated Back Text Makes AirTag 2 Easier to Identify

Apple has revised the text on the stainless steel back of AirTag 2. All lettering now appears in capital letters and includes IP67 water and dust resistance, along with NFC and Find My references. These features were already present but were not listed on the original AirTag. The updated design also makes it easier to visually distinguish AirTag 2 from the earlier version.

Still Designed for Objects, Not Pets or People

Apple continues to state that AirTag 2 is intended for tracking objects, not people or pets. Despite this, many users continue to attach AirTags to pet collars for location tracking.

New Reset Process and iOS 26 Requirement

Resetting an AirTag 2 now requires removing the battery, waiting at least 5 seconds, reinserting it, and repeating the process 4 times. Apple says it can take up to 12 seconds to hear the final confirmation tone. The original AirTag did not require a waiting period between battery removals.

AirTag 2 also requires iOS 26.2.1 or later, meaning it won’t work on devices that cannot run iOS 26.

Find My Features and Battery Life Remain the Same

AirTag 2 continues to use Apple’s Find My network for long-distance tracking by anonymously pinging nearby Apple devices. It supports Lost Mode with NFC contact sharing, item location sharing with trusted contacts, and airline luggage tracking integration.

Power comes from the same CR2032 coin cell battery, which Apple says lasts for more than a year.

Pricing and Availability

Pricing remains unchanged at $29 for a single AirTag or $99 for a four-pack, with free engraving still included. Orders open today, with deliveries beginning Wednesday, January 28.

Are you excited for Apple AirTag 2? Share your thoughts in the comments.

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