Apple unveiled the second generation of the AirTag, the smart tracking tag designed to help users locate everyday items like keys, wallets, and bags. The announcement comes about five years after the launch of the first generation of the product, which became one of the company’s most popular accessories. The new model presents a significant upgrade to tracking and audio capabilities, with the highlight being the integration of the second-generation Ultra Wideband chip, allowing the “Precision Finding” feature to operate at a range 50% greater than the previous generation.
The technological improvements do not stop at tracking range; Apple has also embedded an enhanced Bluetooth chip that extends the overall detection range of the tag. For the first time, users will be able to use the Precision Finding feature directly from their wrist via Apple Watch Series 9 and later or Apple Watch Ultra 2 and later, running watchOS 26.2.1. This capability allows visual and haptic guidance toward the lost item without needing to take the iPhone out of the pocket.
To enjoy the extended tracking range, iPhone models equipped with the second-generation chip are required, including the iPhone 15, iPhone 16 (excluding the 16e model), and the new iPhone 17 series. For users with earlier models, starting from iPhone 11, the Precision Finding feature will continue to work at regular ranges. The new tag retains the familiar design and is fully compatible with all existing accessories on the market, while being made from 85% recycled plastic as part of the company’s environmental goals.
In terms of privacy and security, Apple emphasizes that the AirTag does not store location history on the device itself, and all communication with the Find My network is end-to-end encrypted. The tag includes advanced mechanisms to prevent unwanted tracking, including cross-platform alerts developed in collaboration with Google.