Apple Launches New AirTag With Longer Range
Synopsis
Apple has introduced a second-generation AirTag with enhanced tracking capabilities, including an extended Precision Finding range and louder audio alerts. The updated tracker uses a new Ultra Wideband chip to improve directional guidance and features upgraded Bluetooth connectivity for better item detection at greater distances. The AirTag update also expands Precision Finding support to newer Apple Watch models and strengthens integration with the Find My network. Despite the internal upgrades, Apple has retained the original design, battery system and pricing structure.
Key Highlights
- New Ultra Wideband chip extends Precision Finding range by up to 50%.
- Upgraded Bluetooth improves connectivity and Find My network performance.
- Louder speaker and Apple Watch support enhance real-world tracking usability.
Apple has launched an updated version of its AirTag tracker, bringing notable improvements to tracking range, connectivity and audio alerts. The second-generation AirTag builds on the existing Find My ecosystem, allowing users to locate misplaced items more accurately across a wider range of environments. The device is now available through Apple’s online store and retail outlets in select markets.
Extended Precision Finding Range
A key feature of the Apple AirTag update is the introduction of a new Ultra Wideband (UWB) chip, which enables Precision Finding to operate at distances up to 50% greater than the previous model. Precision Finding provides on-screen directional guidance, distance indicators and haptic feedback to help users locate nearby items with higher accuracy.
The expanded range improves performance in larger indoor spaces and outdoor areas where the original AirTag could lose signal strength. Users can still rely on visual arrows and sound cues through compatible iPhone models running the latest software.
Improved Connectivity and Bluetooth Performance
Alongside Ultra Wideband enhancements, Apple has upgraded the AirTag’s Bluetooth connectivity, extending the range at which the device can communicate with nearby Apple devices. This improvement helps users detect lost items earlier, even before entering Precision Finding mode.
The broader Bluetooth range also strengthens interaction with the Find My network, which uses millions of Apple devices worldwide to anonymously relay approximate location data when an AirTag is out of direct range of its owner.
The updated AirTag features a redesigned internal speaker that produces sound at a higher volume than the previous generation. Apple says the louder alerts make it easier to locate items hidden inside bags, drawers or other enclosed spaces.
A revised alert tone has also been introduced, allowing users to distinguish AirTag sounds more clearly from other notifications and device alerts in busy environments.
Apple Watch Support for Precision Finding
One of the most significant additions in this update is Precision Finding support on select Apple Watch models. Users with Apple Watch Series 9, Apple Watch Ultra 2 or later can initiate item tracking directly from their wrist, without needing to rely solely on an iPhone.
This feature is available through the Find My app on watchOS, provided the device is running the latest software update. It expands hands-free tracking options for users already invested in Apple’s wearable ecosystem.
Find My Network and Shared Tracking
The AirTag update maintains full integration with Apple’s Find My platform, which allows users to view item locations in real time and receive notifications when items are left behind. The tracker also supports item location sharing, enabling temporary access for trusted contacts to help recover lost belongings.
In addition, the updated AirTag supports airline baggage tracking through participating carriers, allowing travellers to share AirTag locations with airline staff during luggage recovery processes.
Despite internal upgrades, Apple has kept the external design unchanged, ensuring compatibility with existing AirTag accessories such as key rings, wallets and holders. The device continues to use a replaceable CR2032 coin cell battery, offering more than a year of typical usage.
Pricing remains consistent with the original model. A single AirTag is priced at US$29, while a four-pack costs US$99. Apple has not introduced a separate price tier for the updated version.
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At Inspirepreneurs Magazine, covering entrepreneurship, business failures, and the human stories behind the world's most ambitious founders. She writes at the intersection of strategy and storytelling.
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