Apple has officially launched the Apple AirTag 2nd generation, ending years of speculation with a powerful update to its popular item tracker. Announced earlier this week, the new model addresses the most common user requests: a significantly louder speaker and extended tracking range. Available starting today, the new AirTag retains the iconic design of the original while packing upgraded internals that make finding lost keys, luggage, and wallets faster and easier than ever. With the AirTag 2 price and release date confirmed at $29 and immediate availability, it is poised to become one of the essential iPhone 17 accessories for 2026.
Next-Gen Precision Finding with New UWB Chip
The headline feature of the new AirTag is the inclusion of Apple's second-generation Apple Ultra Wideband chip. This is the same silicon found in the latest iPhone 17 lineup and Apple Watch Ultra 3, designed to supercharge the Precision Finding range update. According to Apple, this new chip allows users to locate items from up to 50% farther away than the 2021 model. This enhancement is particularly useful for tracking items in large open spaces, such as parking lots or airport terminals, where the previous model sometimes struggled to establish a connection from a distance.
In addition to the raw range increase, the Precision Finding experience is now more versatile. For the first time, users can initiate Precision Finding directly from an Apple Watch (Series 9, Ultra 2, and later), utilizing the haptic and visual feedback on their wrist to zero in on lost items without needing to pull out their iPhone. This integration deepens the utility of the Apple Find My network, creating a seamless tracking ecosystem across all your devices.
Louder Audio and Enhanced Bluetooth
While the visual tracking is impressive, the audio capabilities have received an equally significant upgrade. The second-generation AirTag features a redesigned internal structure that houses a speaker capable of producing sound that is 50% louder than the original. This addresses a common complaint from users who found the first-generation AirTag difficult to hear when buried deep inside a backpack or trapped under heavy sofa cushions. The louder chime ensures that when you ping your item, you'll actually hear it.
Complementing the UWB update is an upgraded Bluetooth chip. This improvement isn't just about connecting faster; it extends the general proximity detection range, allowing your iPhone to pick up the AirTag's signal from a greater distance before Precision Finding even kicks in. This dual-chip upgrade—UWB and Bluetooth—makes the new AirTag features 2026 a substantial leap forward in real-world performance.
Same Design, Better Utility
physically, the AirTag 2 looks nearly identical to its predecessor, which is good news for users with a collection of keychains and loops. The new model is fully compatible with existing accessories, so you won't need to replace your leather holders or rugged cases. However, astute observers will notice a small change on the back: the regulatory text is now etched in all capital letters, and explicitly lists the device's IP67 water and dust resistance—a helpful visual differentiator between the two generations.
The device continues to use a user-replaceable CR2032 coin cell battery, maintaining the convenience of the original. Apple has also emphasized the privacy features of the new model, which includes advanced anti-stalking algorithms that are now integrated more deeply into iOS 19. Additionally, the new "Share Item Location" feature allows users to securely share tracking information with trusted third parties, such as airlines, to help speed up the recovery of mishandled baggage.
Pricing and Availability
Despite the significant hardware upgrades, Apple has kept the price point accessible. The Apple AirTag 2nd generation is available to order now for $29 for a single pack and $99 for a four-pack. It is available for immediate pickup at Apple Store locations and for shipping via the online store. As users upgrade to the iPhone 17 and newer Apple Watch models, the new AirTag serves as a perfect, low-cost entry into the enhanced capabilities of the modern Apple ecosystem.
