Apple puts out new devices every year – iPhones, iPads, Apple Watches, you name it. But the AirTag, which launched in 2021, still flies under the radar. Last year, Apple reps said a new version is on the way, and WWDC 2025 in Cupertino feels like the obvious reveal spot. So, should you wait for AirTag 2, or will it be pretty much the same as before? To figure this out, we’ve gathered all the rumors and official hints from Apple and will break them down here.
Main Improvements in AirTag 2
Apple’s AirTag turned out to be a surprise hit. Even though it’s small and simple, Apple sold about 20 million units in 2021 and around 35 million in 2022. For a device that many overlooked at first, those numbers add up to serious cash. So launching AirTag 2 makes total sense, not just for fans wanting an upgrade, but for Apple’s bottom line, too.
AirTag, which has not received much attention, has gradually grown in shipments since its release. Shipment estimations of AirTag reach about 20 mn & 35 mn units in 2021 & 2022, respectively. If AirTag shipments continue to grow, I believe Apple will develop the 2nd generation.
— 郭明錤 (Ming-Chi Kuo) (@mingchikuo) June 19, 2022
Here’s what to expect from AirTag 2, along with a quick comparison to the original AirTags so you can see what’s new:
- The original AirTag uses a U1 chip that lets you locate items within about 30 meters (roughly 98 feet). AirTag 2 is rumored to come with an upgraded UWB chip that could boost that range to around 90 meters (295 feet). That means you can find your stuff from way farther away, cutting down on those ‘Where did I put my keys… wait, I gotta get closer’ moments.
- The original AirTag’s speaker is pretty quiet and can be tough to hear, especially if it’s hidden or covered up. AirTag 2 might come with a louder, sharper speaker. Plus, Apple is rumored to redesign the speaker setup to make it way harder for someone to disable or muffle the sound (a big security fix compared to the first version).
- The first AirTag uses a CR2032 coin battery, which lasts about a year, and users can replace it themselves easily. AirTag 2 will probably stick with this convenient, replaceable battery, but might boost battery life thanks to more efficient components inside. It doesn’t look like Apple will switch to rechargeable batteries anytime soon, so there’s no need to wait around to charge – just hassle-free battery swaps like before.
- The original AirTag sticks to a round puck shape, which works well but isn’t always ideal, especially for wallets, where it can add bulk. Rumors suggest Apple might introduce a slimmer, card-shaped AirTag 2 designed specifically for wallets, offering a sleeker alternative while keeping the classic design for other uses. That said, this is still just speculation – Apple might stick with the original design and leave it up to third-party makers to create wallet sleeves or holders.
- The original AirTag works well with iPhones for precision finding, but AirTag 2 might take it further by integrating with Apple’s upcoming Vision Pro AR headset. This could allow users to see virtual directions or markers superimposed on their real-world view, making finding lost items feel like an interactive treasure hunt – a feature absent in the first generation.
- The first AirTag has an IP67 water resistance rating, protecting it up to 1 meter deep for 30 minutes. AirTag 2 might improve on this, possibly reaching IP68 for better durability. Combined with a redesigned, tamper-resistant speaker, the new model aims to be more rugged and secure, directly addressing concerns over misuse and the device’s vulnerability to physical sabotage.
User Thoughts Before the Official Release
AirTag 2 hasn’t really caught fire yet, mostly because attention is on the upcoming iOS 19 and macOS 16 updates. So, you don’t hear a lot of buzz from users or analysts right now. Still, a quick look on Reddit shows a small but vocal group praising the original AirTag for being reliable and useful.
Many people say they want wireless charging on the new AirTag model – perhaps not everyone enjoys having to pry open the battery cover to swap out the coin cell. Some say they’d only upgrade if Apple drops a wallet-sized version. That idea gets people talking, since honestly, the bulky AirTag doesn’t fit well in every pocket or wallet. But if you check around, there are already plenty of options out there, like Tile’s Slim tracker, Chipolo Card, and tons of wallet-friendly AirTag cases and covers.
Of course, early user opinions are always all over the place. There are always people quick to call a new Apple product pointless before anyone has even touched it. Ironically, those same critics usually end up lining up outside Apple Stores when it actually drops. When it comes to Apple launches, skepticism makes for good entertainment, but the real verdict usually comes after the unboxing.
Final Thoughts
For now, that’s about all we can say about the anticipated or maybe not-so-anticipated AirTag 2. Apple has dropped a few hints, and rumors have filled in some blanks, but the device is not exactly the crown jewel of the company’s lineup. So, don’t hold your breath waiting for a game-changer.
If you just discovered the AirTag and thought, ‘Hey, I need one of those,’ then waiting for the new version makes perfect sense. AirTags 2 should offer some nice improvements and will likely serve you well. But if you already own a handful of AirTags, don’t expect AirTag 2 to blow your mind. Functionality will improve, sure, but it won’t be something new.
Still, Apple loves to surprise us sometimes. Maybe the announcement and presentation will prove us wrong. Maybe AirTag 2 will bring some fresh ideas. Until then, keep your keys close and your expectations realistic.
