Apple’s AirTag has quickly become an essential travel companion for frequent flyers and occasional travelers alike, offering peace of mind for those concerned about misplaced or lost luggage.
Introduced in 2021, the compact, button-sized device arrived just in time to address the post-pandemic surge in travel—and the accompanying spike in lost baggage. Now, Apple is gearing up to launch the next-generation AirTag 2, expected to hit the market by mid-2025.
Smarter, More Advanced AirTag 2
According to renowned Apple insider Mark Gurman of Bloomberg, the AirTag 2 is already advancing through manufacturing tests under the codename B589. The upgraded device will bring improvements across three critical areas:
- Enhanced Precision-Finding Range
The AirTag 2 will feature a brand-new ultrawide-band (UWB) chip, capable of tripling the precision-finding range of the first-generation model. While the original AirTag can locate items from 10 to 30 meters away, the AirTag 2 will extend that range to an impressive 30 to 90 meters. - Improved Location Accuracy in Remote Areas
Accompanying the upgraded UWB chip is a new wireless chip that enhances accuracy in sparsely populated regions, where there are fewer iPhones and devices contributing to Apple’s Find My network. This network leverages Bluetooth technology to ‘crowdsource’ the location of AirTags, and the enhancements promise a more reliable experience even in less connected areas. - Stronger Privacy and Anti-Stalking Measures
Apple plans to address privacy concerns and enhance security with improved anti-stalking features in the AirTag 2. While AirTags have revolutionized item tracking, they’ve also been criticized for enabling unwanted tracking and stalking. As privacy remains a cornerstone of Apple’s ethos, the company is expected to implement robust measures to ensure safer usage and rebuild trust among users—a move that could help boost AirTag adoption further.
Airlines Join the AirTag Revolution
AirTag’s widespread popularity has even caught the attention of airlines. Qantas is collaborating with Apple to integrate AirTag tracking features into its app, allowing travelers to locate missing luggage more seamlessly. This feature is expected to roll out early next year, raising awareness of AirTag’s capabilities among passengers and enhancing the travel experience.
With the AirTag 2, Apple aims to solidify its dominance in the item-tracking market by offering more precision, greater reliability, and improved security—all while addressing consumer concerns head-on. As the mid-2025 launch nears, the next generation of AirTags promises to be a game-changer for travelers and everyday users alike.
