AirTags 2: What could Apple's revised tracker do?
Apple's popular and affordable Bluetooth and UWB trackers need an update. The rumor mill already has some details at the start.
(Image: tre / Mac&i)
Unfortunately, Apple tends to overhaul certain product categories only after several years. This was the case with the AirPods Max or the HomePods, for example, but products such as the Mac Pro or the Mac Studio are also several years overdue for new versions. The picture is similar for AirTags, of which Apple has probably sold many millions: since the introduction of the Bluetooth and ultra-wideband trackers in April 2021, Apple has only tweaked the firmware and operating system support, but has not touched the hardware any further. Allegedly, this is now changing: several observers claim to have heard that the "AirTags 2" will be released by mid-2025 at the latest. But what could Apple change and/or improve?
Better range and perhaps WLAN
The AirTags themselves are a successful product. With a bit of luck, they are available for less than 30 euros and do what they are supposed to do: Tracking the location of the object to which they are attached or in which they are inserted. This works well wherever Apple devices are in the vicinity – because the "Where is?" location network uses their (anonymously) recorded GPS and Wi-Fi locations. It is unlikely that this will change with AirTags 2, as integrating GPS and mobile communications into the small trackers would consume too much power.
Nevertheless, the range of the AirTags 2 should improve –, for example through improved Bluetooth, UWB and possibly also WLAN components. The latter could also supplement the location detection with additional data. The fact that the AirTags have a CR2032 battery that can be replaced (it lasts for months) is not expected to change, even though competing devices contain rechargeable batteries. According to Bloomberg reporter Mark Gurman, the code name of the new AirTags is "B589".
Form factor: there is still room for improvement
One unanswered question is the form factor of AirTags 2, which could remain in the current pill or candy shape, but this is not really practical. AirTags can only be attached to objects with additional material such as sleeves. Naturally, this will keep Apple and other peripheral manufacturers' tills ringing. Manufacturers of "Where is?"-compatible accessories are already further ahead, offering trackers with integrated eyelets or even flat devices in credit card form. Apple could also get involved here if it wanted to.
A fundamental AirTag problem remains that the trackers are only suitable for theft protection to a limited extent – Keyword anti-stalker function. Apple always emphasizes that it sells object trackers, not "anti-theft devices". Nevertheless, the AirTags are used for this purpose, even though the trackers report on surrounding cell phones, make noises and thus expose people on the hunt for thieves. However, Apple is unlikely to offer a genuine "theft tracker".
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