Apple has passed the torch to the first model and presents a New generation of AirTag focused on improving sound range and powerWith hardly any changes on the outside, the accessory debuts a completely revamped interior that aims to make finding objects easier on a daily basis.
This AirTag 2 comes with a second-generation ultra-wideband chipA significantly more powerful speaker and deeper integration with the Find My app and features like Share Object Location, designed especially for situations like lost or delayed luggage in airports in Spain and the rest of Europe.
A design that's consistent on the outside, but new on the inside.
The new model maintains the same size and format as the original AirTagThis allows users to continue using their existing keychains, mounts, and accessories without any issues. At first glance, anyone familiar with the original AirTag will hardly notice any differences, as the evolution is focused on the internal hardware.
The main character is the second generation of the ultra-wideband chipThis is the same technology used in the latest iPhone 17, iPhone Air, and Apple Watch. Thanks to this component, Precision Find can now guide the user to a lost item. from approximately 50% farther away than before, offering a clearer indication of distance and direction.
This range improvement is complemented by a Optimized Bluetooth that extends the distance at which the AirTag can be detectedIn practice, locating keys forgotten in another room, a backpack in the trunk, or a suitcase in the airport terminal is easier and faster.
For the first time, moreover, Precision search can be performed directly from the wristThose with an Apple Watch Series 9 or later, or an Apple Watch Ultra 2 or later, can receive direction and proximity directions on the watch without relying so much on the iPhone, which is especially convenient when carrying bags or luggage.
A speaker that's 50% more powerful to help you find it better
Along with the new chip, Apple has redesigned the device's interior to Increase the volume of the built-in speaker by approximately 50%.According to the company, this improvement allows the AirTag's sound to be heard from approximately twice the distance of the first generation.
This power increase aims to resolve one of the common complaints about the original model, whose audible warning It could fall short when the environment was noisy or the AirTag was very well hiddenFor example, between sofa cushions, inside a full backpack, or lost in another room.
In addition to the volume, a new distinctive tone Designed to be easier to identify. Combined with the visual and haptic cues of the iPhone or Apple Watch, the user now has clearer guidance to locate the lost item step by step.
Everything is managed through the familiar function Precision Searchwhich combines information from the ultra-wideband chip with the rest of the device's sensors (such as the camera or gyroscope) to display on the screen the direction, approximate distance, and small sound and vibration alerts as you move, and there are guides for mark your AirPods as lost.
The Search network and new features for travelers
As in the first generation, the AirTag 2 relies on the Apple's Search network, a collaborative network made up of millions of devices distributed all over the world. When the tracker goes out of range of the paired iPhone or iPad, other nearby Apple devices can detect its Bluetooth signal and send its approximate location to the owner in encrypted and anonymous form.
Based on this, Apple reinforces the integration of the AirTag 2 with the function Share Object LocationThis iOS feature allows you to temporarily share the location of an AirTag with trusted third parties, such as an airline when a suitcase has been lost during a flight within Europe.
The company claims that collaborates with more than 50 airlines so they can accept secure links from this feature. This allows users to authorize the airline to check the approximate location of their luggage, making it easier to find and reducing wait times. Industry data collected by Apple itself indicates that the use of this technology has contributed to to reduce baggage delays and cases of unrecoverable luggage.
This access is limited to authorized personnel and managed through verified accountsThis prevents the airline from tracking the item indefinitely. Location sharing is automatically deactivated when the user retrieves their belongings or after seven days, and the owner can revoke access at any time through the app.
Beyond travel, the Search network remains useful for tracking all sorts of everyday objects and more. devices and gadgets for everyday lifeKeys, school bags, work backpacks, musical instruments, or even briefcases with important documents. The AirTag 2 also integrates with third-party devices compatible with this network, maintaining the same privacy approach that Apple has already implemented.
Privacy, anti-harassment security, and a focus on objects
Apple insists that this AirTag 2 It is designed exclusively to locate objects, not people or pets.In line with that philosophy, the company maintains and reinforces the protection measures against unwanted tracking that it has already introduced in recent years.
The device It does not physically store location histories and all communications with the Buscar network are protected by end-to-end encryptionThis means that only the AirTag owner can see where their accessory is located on the map, while the other devices that collaborate in the location do not have access to that data nor do they know the owner's identity.
To prevent misuse, the AirTag 2 incorporates Bluetooth identifiers that change frequentlyThis makes it difficult to track a person using the same identifier over long periods of time. In addition, security alerts on different platforms that warn if an unknown AirTag appears to be moving alongside someone without their knowledge.
These safeguards have become a key element for the AirTag to continue being used normally in European countries where privacy and data protection regulations are particularly strict. The idea is that the accessory will serve to to recover objects, not to monitor people, something that Apple reiterates in its official communication.
Recycled materials and accessory compatibility
In addition to the technical improvements, Apple fits the launch of the AirTag 2 into its sustainability strategy, known as apple 2030, with which it aims to achieve carbon neutrality throughout its value chain by the end of this decade.
According to the company, the new AirTag It uses 85% recycled plastic in the casing y 100% recycled rare earth elements in all magnetsThey have also resorted to recycled gold in printed circuit boards Designed by Apple. The packaging is now made of 100% recycled paper and traditional plastic has been eliminated, so it can be easily recycled through standard selective collection systems in Spain and other European countries.
On a practical level, keeping the device size the same has another advantage: It remains compatible with the current collection of accessories, such as keychains, straps, and mounts from various brands. Apple, for its part, highlights its fine braided keychain, made with 68% recycled materials and available in several colors, which is sold separately.
This continuity avoids having to renew cases or keychains already purchased for the 2021 model, something that many users will appreciate regardless of whether they opt for official accessories or cheaper third-party options.
Price, reservation and compatibility requirements
In terms of cost, the AirTag 2 is priced at a Price of €35 per unit and €119 for a pack of foura figure that keeps it in the same price range as its predecessor. It has been available for pre-order since launch. through the official Apple website and the Apple Store app, and its arrival in physical stores and authorized distributors will take place throughout this same week.
As an extra, the company offers Custom engraving at no extra cost When purchasing the accessory through their official channels, an option is available to more clearly identify each AirTag or give it a personal touch, which is useful when several are used at the same time in a family or small business.
To use it, you need an iPhone with iOS 26 or later or an iPad with iPadOS 26 or later, in addition to being signed in with an Apple ID and having Find My in iCloud enabled. Precision Search from Apple Watch requires a Watch Series 9 or later, or a Watch Ultra 2 or later, with the compatible watchOS version.
In Europe and Spain, these operating system versions are already widely used on the latest devices, so compatibility shouldn't be a problem for those who have updated their devices in recent years.
With this new model, Apple reinforces its object locator offering by betting on greater range, a significantly more powerful speaker, and more useful integration with the Search network and traveler servicesAll while maintaining the compact format, the familiar price, and a strong focus on privacy and responsible use.
