Apple’s popular AirTag accessory is set to receive its first significant update since its launch in 2021. A new report from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman suggests that the second-generation AirTag will debut in mid-2025. The AirTag 2 will bring several enhancements to improve performance, privacy, and overall functionality, while retaining the compact and minimalist design that made the original a hit among users.

The upcoming AirTag 2, codenamed B589, is expected to feature a new wireless chip, likely the second-generation Ultra Wideband (U2) chip. This upgrade will provide a longer tracking range and more precise location accuracy compared to the original AirTag, which uses the U1 chip. Enhanced range and connectivity are essential, particularly as item trackers become more integral to daily life, helping users locate everything from keys to luggage. With the increased adoption of Precision Finding technology, the AirTag 2 is set to stand out in the competitive item-tracking market.

Privacy and security have been key focus areas for Apple, and the AirTag 2 will include measures to address concerns over misuse. Reports indicate that Apple is redesigning the speaker assembly to make it more tamper-proof, preventing malicious actors from disabling the sound feature. The integrated speaker is critical for notifying individuals when an unknown AirTag is nearby, and its protection aligns with Apple’s commitment to user safety. These changes are particularly significant, given incidents of modified “silent AirTags” being sold online for unethical purposes.

In addition to this, the AirTag 2 will reportedly integrate more seamlessly with Apple’s expanding ecosystem, including compatibility with Vision Pro. While details of this integration remain sparse, it suggests that Apple is looking to extend the utility of its item-tracking accessory into augmented reality applications. This could pave the way for innovative ways to locate lost items, possibly through AR-enhanced visuals.

The launch of AirTag 2 is expected to coincide with other major Apple product releases, including the M4 MacBook Air and updated iPad Air models. While Ming-Chi Kuo previously suggested delays in the accessory’s mass production, it appears the tech giant has now advanced to the manufacturing test phase, signaling that the product is on track for a mid-2025 release.

(via Bloomberg)

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