Apple quietly unveiled a new version of its AirTag this week, a refresh that’s remarkably similar in appearance to the original released nearly five years ago. Don't expect a dramatic redesign; the focus here is on subtle, yet impactful, internal improvements designed to enhance the tracking experience for new users.
The most significant upgrade centers around Precision Finding, Apple’s system for pinpointing lost items. Utilizing ultra wideband (UWB) technology, your iPhone guides you with detailed directions, haptic feedback, and audio cues. The new AirTag boasts a newer UWB chip, boosting Precision Finding range by a substantial 50%.
This means you can now locate a misplaced AirTag from up to 1.5 times the distance compared to the previous generation, dramatically increasing your chances of recovery. The improvements don’t stop there; the speaker within the new AirTag is also 50% louder, making it easier to hear its signal even when hidden under cushions or buried in a bag.
Surprisingly, the price remains unchanged. A single AirTag still costs $29, and a convenient four-pack is available for $99. However, unlocking the full potential of these upgrades requires careful consideration of your existing Apple devices.
Compatibility is key. To connect with the new AirTag, your iPhone or iPad must be running iOS 26 or iPadOS 26. Older devices that don’t support these updates will be unable to pair with the latest tracker. Even updating isn’t enough for the most advanced features.
To truly benefit from the 50% improvement in Precision Finding, you’ll need an iPhone 15 or newer. These models feature Apple’s newest UWB chip, essential for maximizing the upgraded location capabilities. iPhone 14 and older models, even with iOS 26, will experience standard Precision Finding performance.
Apple Watch users also have specific requirements. To utilize Precision Finding, you’ll need an Apple Watch Series 9 or later, or an Apple Watch Ultra 2 or later, running watchOS 26.2.1. Without these, the enhanced features remain inaccessible.
If your devices don’t meet these specifications, consider the original AirTag. While Apple no longer sells the first generation directly, they are readily available from other retailers at a discounted price. A four-pack can currently be found for around $69.99, saving you $30.
Individual first-generation AirTags are also available for around $25.99. They function reliably, offering nearly the same tracking experience as the new model, minus the louder speaker. This presents a significant cost savings for those who don’t plan to upgrade their iPhone soon.
For those committed to future-proofing, purchasing the second-generation AirTags at full price offers peace of mind. But for many, the older model remains a smart, economical choice, providing dependable tracking without the need for the latest hardware.
