New Apple AirTag 2026: 50% More Range & Louder Speaker

Apple Unveils Next-Gen AirTag: 50% More Range and Louder Speaker

On January 26, 2026, Apple officially launched the second-generation AirTag, marking the first major hardware update to the world’s most popular item tracker since its 2021 debut. While it retains the iconic coin-shaped design, the internal upgrades focus on drastically improving “findability” and range.

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1. What’s New: The Key Upgrades

The new AirTag leverages the 2nd-generation Ultra Wideband (UWB) chip, the same silicon powering the iPhone 17 lineup and Apple Watch Ultra 3.

• Precision Finding 2.0: You can now track your items from 50% farther away compared to the original AirTag.

• Louder Alerts: The internal speaker is now 50% louder, making it much easier to hear when buried under couch cushions or luggage.

• Extended Bluetooth Range: An upgraded Bluetooth chip expands the “discovery zone,” helping the Find My network pick up its signal faster.

• Apple Watch Integration: For the first time, users can use Precision Finding directly on an Apple Watch (Series 9 or later and Ultra 2 or later) without needing their phone.

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2. Share Item Location: A Traveler’s Best Friend

Apple has introduced a game-changing feature for lost luggage. You can now generate a “Share Item Location” link to send directly to airlines.

• Partner Airlines: Over 50 airlines (including Delta, United, British Airways, and Qantas) are now equipped to securely accept these links.

• The Impact: According to SITA, airlines using this tech have reported a 26% reduction in baggage delays and a 90% drop in “unrecoverable” luggage.

• Privacy: Links expire automatically after 7 days or as soon as you are reunited with your bag.

3. Pricing & Environmental Impact

Apple has managed to keep the pricing identical to the first generation while increasing the use of sustainable materials.

• Eco-Friendly: The enclosure is made of 85% recycled plastic, and all magnets use 100% recycled rare earth elements.

• Compatibility: Since the physical shape hasn’t changed, all your existing loops, keyrings, and accessories will work perfectly with the new model.

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