AirTag 2: Release Date, Rumors, Features, and More
- Apple’s tracker is about to get smarter—and harder to mess with.
- A privacy upgrade that thieves won’t love, but you’ll appreciate.
- Forget hardware redesigns—AirTag 2 is all about what’s inside.
Apple’s AirTag, first introduced in April 2021, has become a popular tool for tracking lost items like keys, wallets, and luggage. However, it hasn’t seen a hardware update in over three years. Rumors about an AirTag 2 have been circulating for some time, and according to recent reports, the wait may soon be over.
Photo via MacRumors // A concept from MacRumors of Apple's upcoming AirTag 2, rumored to look almost identical to the original AirTag from 2021.
Bloomberg's Mark Gurman suggests that Apple is actively developing a second-generation AirTag, codenamed B589, with a potential release targeted for mid-2025. Here's what we know so far:
Key Upgrades Expected in AirTag 2
Improved Privacy Features
Apple has been keen on addressing privacy concerns surrounding AirTag tracking. Gurman notes that the next model will make it harder to remove the built-in speaker, a common tactic used by thieves to disable tracking.
Apple wants to make privacy front and center and continue to prevent unwanted tracking.— Mark Gurman writes in his Power On newsletter
Current AirTags already notify users if an unknown tracker is moving with them, but this enhanced design aims to further deter malicious use.
Photo via Tom's Guide // Apple is reportedly improving the AirTag’s privacy features, including making the built-in speaker harder to disable.
Better Connectivity
The AirTag 2 is rumored to feature an upgraded chip, potentially incorporating the second-generation Ultra Wideband (UWB) technology found in the iPhone 15 lineup. This improvement could mean:
- Enhanced location tracking
- Improved range for Apple's Precision Finding feature
Same Look, Familiar Design
While functional upgrades are expected, major design changes seem unlikely. The next-generation AirTag is expected to maintain its compact, circular shape—though many users continue to wish for a built-in key loop.
Photo via Cult of Mac // While no major design changes are expected, Apple could further refine the AirTag’s functionality under the hood.
Timeline and Delays
While initially speculated for release in late 2024, analyst Ming-Chi Kuo reported delays pushing mass production to 2025. This aligns with Gurman’s prediction of a mid-2025 launch.
Potential Vision Pro Integration
A particularly intriguing rumor from Kuo suggests that the AirTag 2 could integrate with Apple’s upcoming Vision Pro headset (whether or not this would extend to the first-generation Apple Vision Pro remains unclear). While specific details remain sparse, this connection could expand the tracker’s utility beyond its current scope.
Pricing and Expectations
The original AirTag is priced at $29 USD / £29 / AU$45—a cost that has made it an accessible entry point into Apple’s ecosystem. Fans hope Apple will maintain this pricing structure while introducing upgrades.
Additionally, the AirTag 2 will likely retain its user-replaceable battery, a feature praised for its convenience, alongside the water-resistant design that ensures durability.
2025: A Big Year for Apple?
Photo via Apple Scoop // Pictured: iPhone SE 4 concept rendering. Apple’s 2025 lineup is shaping up to include more than just the AirTag 2, with rumors of a new iPhone SE and MacBook Air also circulating.
The AirTag 2 isn’t the only product Apple seems to have in its pipeline. Gurman also mentions a next-generation iPhone SE, a new entry-level iPad, and even a long-awaited smart home display could debut in the same timeframe.
What We Hope For
While the anticipated upgrades to privacy and connectivity are exciting, many users are still clamoring for practical design improvements, like a built-in keyring hole, to make the AirTag more versatile.
Apple’s track record of enhancing user experience suggests that the AirTag 2 could be a solid evolution of an already popular product.
As more details emerge, we’ll continue to update this story. For now, mark your calendars for 2025—it’s shaping up to be an exciting year for Apple fans.
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