Get ready for an exciting upgrade! After a long wait, Apple has finally unveiled the highly anticipated AirTag 2, and it's packed with some impressive new features. But here's where it gets controversial: despite Apple's official stance, many users have been creatively utilizing AirTags for pet tracking. Let's dive into the details and explore the latest advancements in this next-generation AirTag.
The AirTag 2: A Comprehensive Overview
UWB 2: The AirTag 2 adopts Apple's second-generation Ultra Wideband (UWB) chip, enhancing its precision and range. With this upgrade, the Precision Finding feature now works from 1.5 times further away, making it easier to locate your items indoors.
Longer Range, Louder Speaker: One of the most notable improvements is the extended range and increased volume of the AirTag 2's speaker. This upgrade not only makes it easier to hear when playing a sound but also serves as an additional anti-stalking measure, ensuring your AirTag's location is harder to mask.
Precision Finding on Apple Watch: Previously limited to iPhones, Precision Finding now extends to Apple Watch Series 9 and later, as well as Apple Watch Ultra 2 and later. This means you can now use your Apple Watch to locate your AirTag with precision.
Bluetooth and Internal Design: Apple has implemented a newer Bluetooth specification with increased range, ensuring a more stable connection. To accommodate the updated speaker, Apple has revamped the AirTag's internal design, although the exact details are yet to be confirmed.
Weight and Textual Changes: The AirTag 2 weighs slightly more than its predecessor, at 0.42 ounces or 11.8 grams, a 7% increase. The text on the back of the AirTag 2 is now all in capital letters, making it easier to distinguish between generations. Additionally, the text now explicitly mentions IP67 water and dust resistance, NFC, and Find My support, features that were present in the original but not explicitly listed.
Pet Tracking Controversy: Despite Apple's official statement that AirTags are for tracking objects, not people or pets, many users have found creative ways to use AirTags for pet tracking. This has sparked a debate among users, with some questioning the ethics and potential risks of such practices.
Reset Process and iOS Compatibility: To reset an AirTag 2, you'll need to remove the battery, wait at least five seconds, and then reinsert the battery, repeating this process four times. It's important to note that the AirTag 2 requires iOS 26.2.1 or later, so ensure your devices are up-to-date.
Pricing and Availability: The AirTag 2 maintains the same price point as its predecessor, at $29 for a single AirTag, or $99 for a pack of four. Free engraving is also included. You can purchase the new AirTag today, with orders set to be delivered starting on Wednesday, January 28.
Key Features: The AirTag 2 continues to leverage the Find My network, allowing you to track items even when they're out of Bluetooth range. It also supports Lost Mode, with an NFC feature for identifying lost items, and offers options for sharing item locations with others. Additionally, it retains the use of a CR2032 coin cell battery, which Apple claims will last for more than a year.
So, what do you think about the new AirTag 2? Are you excited about the upgrades, or do you have concerns about its potential uses? Share your thoughts in the comments and let's discuss the future of item tracking!
