Apple AirTag 2: Expected Features, Release Date, and More

Apple’s AirTag has been its most popular and affordable accessory since it arrived in 2021. It uses Find My Network to help you track misplaced or lost items. While it remains among the best in size and technology, rumors suggest Apple plans to release a second-generation model with potential improvements to tracking range, anti-stalking measures, and more.

Here’s everything we know about Apple’s next-generation item tracker, Apple AirTag 2.

Table of Contents

What to Expect from Apple AirTag 2?
AirTag 2 Release Date and Price Expectations
Summing Up…

What to Expect from Apple AirTag 2?

Although there’s no official word from Apple’s end, if at all, there will be a second-gen AirTag. Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman reports that AirTag 2 will feature significant improvements over the current gen model. Here are some of the key upgrades we can expect to see on the new model.

1. Extended 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The current-gen AirTag features an outdated version of Apple’s U1 Ultra Wideband chip.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.

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However, Apple has already introduced a newer version of the Ultra Wideband chip with the iPhone 15 and Apple Watch Series 9.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.

2. Improved Anti-Stalking Features

There have been many instances in which Apple has faced harsh criticism for AirTag’s potential to track people without their consent, given its discreet form factor. Not only that, but some notorious individuals have even modified AirTags to disable the built-in speaker, making them harder to detect. While there is no way Apple would want to increase the AirTag 2 dimensions, the Cupertino tech giant is reportedly working on adding new anti-stalking measures to prevent tampering and enhance user safety.

3. Detailed Battery Level Reporting

The current AirTag only displays a low-battery warning when the coin cell is nearing depletion. AirTag 2 is expected to introduce more precise battery information, potentially showing a percentage-based battery level in the Find My app.

This small change could significantly improve day-to-day usability by removing guesswork around battery replacement.

4. Streamlined Pairing and Setup

Leaks also point to a smoother pairing experience during initial setup. Apple may introduce updated animations and fewer steps when adding a new AirTag to an iPhone, making the process faster and more intuitive, especially when setting up multiple trackers at once.

5. No Major Design Changes

One of the major downsides of the current-gen AirTag is that you need extra accessories to attach it to an item unless you are putting the AirTag in a bag. Unfortunately, this won’t change with the AirTag 2 either. While many of you might be anticipating a slimmer AirTag that could easily fit in a wallet, recent reports suggest Apple will stick with the same round form factor. If it does, expect the same battery performance in the AirTag 2 unless Apple introduces a rechargeable battery.

AirTag 2 Release Date and Price Expectations

Although AirTag 2 was initially rumored for a 2025 launch, Macworld’s Filipe Espósito’s December 2025 report strongly suggests that Apple pushed the release timeline. Current indications point toward an early 2026 launch, possibly during a spring product event or alongside a major software announcement.

Internal references in recent Apple operating system builds suggest the hardware was ready earlier, but was delayed for refinement or regulatory reasons.

At this stage, a first-half 2026 release window appears most likely.

Regarding its pricing, there are no rumors or leaks to date. However, Apple has been offering the current AirTag at a significant discount in the past few months, so there is a strong likelihood that the company will release AirTag 2 at the same $29 price.

Summing Up…

While Apple isn’t making any anticipated design changes to the AirTag 2, the expected improvements in tracking range from the new UWB chip and security features could make it a compelling upgrade. Stay tuned for more updates as we approach its official announcement.

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

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