Apple Launches Redesigned AirTag 2 with Major Tracking and Findability Upgrades

Apple introduced an updated AirTag item tracker on Jan. 26, 2026, featuring a second-generation Ultra Wideband chip that extends precision finding range by 50% compared to the original model launched five years ago in 2021.

Credit: Apple

The new accessory, priced at $29 for a single unit and $99 for a four-pack, incorporates an upgraded Bluetooth chip to broaden overall detection capabilities and supports precision finding on Apple Watch Series 9 or later models for the first time.

The internal speaker produces sound 50% louder than before and includes a distinctive new chime audible from up to twice the distance of the prior version.

Orders began immediately through Apple's online store and app, with availability at physical Apple Store locations set for later in the week.

The tracker maintains the same circular design as its predecessor, ensuring compatibility with existing accessories such as key rings and cases.

AirTag 2 requires an iPhone or iPad running iOS 26 or later, along with an active Apple Account and iCloud sign-in, to access features through the Find My app.

AirTag 2 leverages the Find My network, a crowdsourced system of Apple products using Bluetooth to relay approximate locations of lost items back to owners.

Precision finding provides haptic, visual, and audio guidance to direct users toward the AirTag from farther away, while the enhanced speaker aids in locating items like keys or wallets buried in furniture or bags.

"The new AirTag is designed from the ground up to keep location data private and secure. AirTag doesn’t physically store location data or history on device, and end-to-end encryption protects all communication with the Find My network, ensuring that only the owner of a device can access its location data," Apple said in a statement.

The tracker includes cross-platform alerts for unwanted tracking and frequently changing Bluetooth identifiers to prevent misuse.

It integrates with the Share Item Location feature, allowing temporary secure sharing of an item's position with partners like airlines to assist in recovering delayed luggage.

Credit: Apple

Apple has collaborated with over 50 airlines for this functionality, which expires automatically after seven days or upon retrieval.

The enclosure uses 85% recycled plastic, all magnets contain 100% recycled rare earth elements, and printed circuit boards feature 100% recycled gold plating.

Packaging consists entirely of fiber-based paper.

Battery life remains rated at more than one year with a user-replaceable cell.

Free personalized engraving is offered during purchase on Apple's platforms.