Apple has released a new AirTag – its tracking device for keys, suitcases and other objects. The updated AirTag is simply called the new AirTag. Apple has not bothered tagging with a version number to distinguish from the first generation release. The new version has a greater range and a louder speaker.
The new AirTag takes advantage of Apple’s second-generation Ultra Wideband chip. This is the same chip found in the most recent iPhone and Apple Watch models This increases the device’s range by up to 50% compared to the first AirTag which was released in 2011. The internal speaker iOS also 50% louder than the original AirTag, making it easier to find when using audible alerts.
The U2 chip enables users to use Precision Finding on Apple Watch Series 9 or later, or Apple Watch Ultra 2 or later, to find their AirTag.
New AirTag addresses privacy challenges
One of the challenges Apple faced when it introduced the first AirTag was that it was being used by some to track people and objects surreptitiously. Apple has taken steps to protect user privacy. The new AirTag is designed 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. This ensures only the owner of a device can access its location data. No one, including Apple, knows the identity or location of any device that helped find it.
The new AirTag is available to order on apple.com/au and in the Apple Store app today, and will be available at Apple Store locations later this week. The new AirTag will also be available at Apple Authorised Resellers.
AirTag is available either individually for 49 inc. GST or in a four pack for $165 inc. GST.
The new AirTag requires a compatible iPhone with iOS 26 or later, or iPad with iPadOS 26 or later. Customers must have an Apple Account and be signed into their iCloud account. Certain features require Find My to be enabled in iCloud settings.
Anthony is the founder of Australian Apple News. He is a long-time Apple user and former editor of Australian Macworld. He has contributed to many technology magazines and newspapers as well as appearing regularly on radio and occasionally on TV.