Apple AirTags 2: Here’s Everything We Know So Far
- Get ready for smarter tracking—AirTag 2 is rumored to bring some big upgrades.
- Enhanced battery life and pinpoint accuracy are just the beginning for AirTag 2.
- Mark your calendars: AirTag 2 is expected to launch mid-2025 with exciting features.
New rumors surrounding the much-anticipated second-generation AirTags have emerged. As Apple prepares to expand its suite of tracking devices, here's a comprehensive look at what the future might hold for AirTag 2.
Current Success of AirTags
Since their debut in April 2021, Apple’s AirTags have become a staple for tracking personal items. Priced affordably at $29 for one or $99 for four, these Bluetooth-enabled trackers integrate seamlessly with Apple’s expansive Find My network. Their sleek design and functionality have made them a favorite among users—myself included. I personally use five AirTags to keep tabs on everything from my water bottle to my two dogs, and they make for excellent, practical gifts for family and friends.
Photo via Travel + Lesiure // AirTags have become a popular accessory for Apple fans and users alike, helping them find their misplaced items like wallets, backpacks, luggage and more.
What's New with AirTag 2?
After three years without a hardware update, rumors suggest that Apple is gearing up to release AirTag 2 in mid to late 2025. Here are the key features expected in the new iteration:
1. Enhanced Ultra-Wideband Connectivity
One of the standout features of the original AirTags is the U1 chip, enabling precision finding with compatible iPhones. The anticipated AirTag 2 is rumored to incorporate the upgraded U2 chip found in the latest iPhone 15 models. This enhancement promises:
- Improved Location Accuracy: Better tracking over longer distances.
- Extended AirTags Battery Life: Enhanced energy efficiency from the new chip.
Every AirTag features a chip called the U1 inside, which allows for precision finding with compatible iPhones. iPhone 15 models have an upgraded U2 chip, allowing more accurate location tracking over longer distances.— Explains the initial report.
2. Familiar Design with Subtle Tweaks
Apple seems to favor the original AirTag design, with expectations that AirTag 2 will maintain a similar aesthetic. This continuity ensures compatibility with existing accessories—a significant advantage for current users. However, there is speculation about minor adjustments, particularly regarding the battery compartment:
- User-Replaceable CR2032 Battery: Likely to remain unchanged, preserving ease of use.
- Safety Enhancements: Potential redesign to prevent easy access by children, addressing safety concerns.
Photo via Pocketnow // AirTags 2 might come with come subtle design tweaks, but don't expect a total redesign, reports say.
3. Integration with Apple Vision Pro
A particularly intriguing rumor involves the integration of AirTag 2 with Apple’s Vision Pro headset. According to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, this could introduce a spatial 3D tracking experience, although specifics remain under wraps. Possible implementations include:
- Positional Information Relay: Utilizing the Ultra-Wideband chip for enhanced spatial awareness.
- VR Item Tracking Interface: A virtual layer for locating and managing tracked items.
"Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo once reported that a new AirTag would somehow integrate with the Vision Pro," highlighting Apple's intent to expand the ecosystem's functionality.
Launch Timeline
The release of AirTag 2 is slated for mid to late 2025, aligning with Apple's broader product launch schedule for the year. According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman:
“I expect Apple to kick off 2025 with several other new devices in the first half of the year... An upgraded AirTag item finder accessory (B589).”
Additionally, Ming-Chi Kuo noted a postponement in mass production from late 2024 to 2025, ensuring ample time for refinement.
Pricing Expectations
While Apple has not confirmed the pricing for AirTag 2, it's anticipated that the cost will remain competitive with the original model. Given the expected enhancements, users hope that the attractive price point of $29 per unit will continue, maintaining accessibility for a wide range of consumers.
Personal Take
As a dedicated user of AirTags, the prospect of an upgraded AirTag 2 is exciting. The potential integration with Vision Pro could revolutionize how we interact with our personal items, blending the physical and digital realms in unprecedented ways. However, maintaining the same design while introducing advanced features strikes a commendable balance between innovation and user familiarity.
In Conclusion
Apple’s AirTags have proven to be invaluable tools for item tracking, and the rumored AirTag 2 promises to build on this success with enhanced connectivity, subtle design improvements, and groundbreaking integrations. As we await official confirmation, the tech community remains optimistic about the next chapter in Apple’s tracking technology.
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Thank you for visiting Apple Scoop! As a dedicated independent news organization, we strive to deliver the latest updates and in-depth journalism on everything Apple. Have insights or thoughts to share? Drop a comment below—our team actively engages with and responds to our community. Return to the home page.Published to Apple Scoop on 7th October, 2024.
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