Apple has officially unveiled the second generation of its AirTag accessory, introducing significant hardware upgrades designed to improve item tracking and findability. The new model retains the original design’s form factor while upgrading internal components to provide a wider tracking radius and a more audible speaker.
Hardware and Performance Upgrades
The primary advancement in the new AirTag is the inclusion of Apple’s second-generation Ultra Wideband (UWB) chip. This is the same technology utilized in the iPhone 17 lineup and the latest Apple Watch models. Key improvements include:
- Precision Finding Range: Users can now utilize Precision Finding from up to 50% farther away compared to the first generation.
- Upgraded Bluetooth: An updated Bluetooth chip expands the detection range for the Find My network.
- Audio Output: The internal speaker is 50% louder, making the device easier to hear when hidden under furniture or in noisy environments.
- Apple Watch Integration: For the first time, Precision Finding is available directly on the Apple Watch Series 9 or later and Apple Watch Ultra 2 or later.
Share Item Location and Airline Integration
A significant software addition is the Share Item Location feature. This allows users to securely share the location of a lost item with third parties via a temporary link.
Apple has collaborated with over 50 airlines to integrate this feature into their recovery processes. According to data from SITA, the implementation of this technology has contributed to a 26% reduction in baggage delays and a 90% decrease in unrecoverable luggage. Links shared through this feature automatically expire after seven days or once the item is recovered.
Privacy and Security
The new AirTag maintains Apple’s focus on privacy, utilizing end-to-end encryption for all location data. The device is built with specific protections to prevent misuse, including:
- Unwanted Tracking Alerts: Cross-platform notifications if an unknown AirTag is moving with a person.
- Rotating Identifiers: Bluetooth identifiers change frequently to prevent unauthorized tracking.
- Data Minimization: No location history or data is stored physically on the AirTag hardware.
Pricing and availability
The new Apple AirTag is priced at Rs. 3790 for one AirTag and Rs. 12900 for a pack of 4. AirTag FineWoven Key Ring in fox orange, midnight purple, navy, moss, and black is priced at Rs. 3900.
It is available to order on apple.com and in the Apple Store app today, and will be available at Apple Store locations later this week. . Apple is also offering a free engraving for each AirTag