It’s been over three years since Apple launched its most popular item tracker, AirTag, and there are reports that a new version, AirTag 2, is just around the corner. Apple is expected to announce new iPad Air models and the M4 MacBook Air, along with an anticipated refresh to introduce new features that will hopefully help users find lost items more efficiently.
According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, the second generation AirTag will be all about improving user experience, with major upgrades involved. The new model is also expected to have a better range and an improved wireless chip, perhaps with the Ultra Wideband technology of the second generation introduced by the iPhone 15 collection. This would greatly increase the speed of locating misplaced items for the user as they could track the exact location of their items.
AirTag 2: What we know about Apple’s next-gen tracking device
It is projected that AirTag 2 will continue to follow the same design as the AirTag, making an existing user accustomed to it. Nevertheless, the internal changes will deliver more robust functionality. A built-in speaker is an exciting addition that helps prevent stalking incidents, which have unfortunately been a concern regarding the security and misuse of item tracking devices. Some users have even stripped their AirTags of the speaker entirely, and Gurman says Apple’s response will help regain user trust and make its product safer.
Various analysts have supplied a launch time frame; however, they’re not all agreed. Gurman says the Watch could hit Apple stores as early as Spring 2025; Ming-Chi Kuo said mass production would be pushed back from late 2024 to 2025 but didn’t reveal why. Given this disconnect, it is no surprise that people speculate that the new AirTag may not be quite ready or that Apple will delay the spring release again.
Kuo has also hinted that the upcoming AirTag 2 might integrate with Apple’s Vision Pro, but the form of integration is still unknown. That cross-device compatibility suggests Apple is thinking beyond basic tracking with AirTag 2. Apple’s innovation could potentially put the handset maker at the forefront of a growing chain of smart devices.
While Apple might be late to the game regarding Black Friday tropes, it is making a mad dash to the item-tracking market, particularly with AirTag’s key move in assisting your lost luggage and personal belongings. AirTags will soon have a new feature to work with airlines to more easily track lost baggage through item location sharing. This is especially useful for frequent travelers and something Apple is trying to bring together across its products to enhance the user experience.
On pricing, current-generation AirTags are fairly affordable; a single unit sells for around $19, and a four-pack for $79.98. The affordability has made them popular, and the forthcoming model looks set to draw even more users eager for new features and improved security. The reported advancement shows that Apple pays attention to users’ feedback and strives to make its products work and safe. Apple aims to add enhanced privacy features to ease people’s minds when using AirTags and their security.
Images credit: Unsplash/Jonas Elia
