Apple Refreshes AirTag After Five Years with Smarter Range and a Much Louder Ping

Apple quietly launches the second-generation AirTag, also known as AirTag 2, an enhanced model of this compact tracking device, which was first introduced in 2021. For those of us who use these tiny discs for our keys, wallets, bags, or luggage, there is now greater range and a much louder ping.

Precision Finding is where the magic happens, and Apple has included the 2nd generation UWB chip in the new AirTag, which is the same tech found in the iPhone 17, Apple Watch Ultra 3, and a couple of other models from the past year or so. This tiny chip greatly increases the range of your AirTag search by 50% when you’re searching for something nearby. When you open ‘Precision Finding’ on your iPhone, you’ll have access to a convenient screen with arrows and distance measurements, as well as some nice haptic feedback to guide you along the way. Owners of the Apple Watch (as far back as the Ultra 2) can now search for lost items on their watch without needing to pull out their iPhone.

The Bluetooth range of the AirTag has also been improved, thanks to a new chip. Lost items will now show up on the Find My map from much further away, which is a huge help when your items just seem to disappear from the Find My app at the worst possible time. It’s all part of the Apple device network that is constantly providing location information, giving a much more reliable coverage.

In terms of sound, engineers were able to fit a new speaker that is 50% louder than before. This means you can hear the chime sound from nearly twice the distance. Plus, the new speaker has a different pitch as well, making it considerably easier to hear above background noise.

The price is the same as before: $29 for one AirTag or $99 for four. As always, engraving is free on Apple’s website and app, and you can engrave your AirTag. And then there are accessories, such as the FineWoven Key Ring, which comes in a variety of colors and is still reasonably priced at $35.