Apple’s first-generation AirTag has been one of the most successful Bluetooth trackers on the market, but after four years without a hardware update, anticipation for AirTag 2 is at an all-time high. According to MacRumors, AirTag 2 references have appeared repeatedly in the latest iOS 26 internal code, confirming that Apple is actively preparing the hardware and updated tracking system. With this new evidence, the 2026 launch timeline is becoming more credible than ever.
AirTag vs. AirTag 2: What’s Changing?
Here’s a quick look at how the new model stacks up against the original:
| Feature | AirTag (2021) | AirTag 2 (2026 Expected) |
|---|---|---|
| UWB Chip | U1 | U2 or U3 |
| Battery Info | Only “Low Battery” | Full percentage |
| Pairing | Basic popup | New, faster setup |
| Tracking in Crowds | Limited | Much improved |
| Tracking While Moving | Basic | New “Improved Moving” |
| Privacy Alerts | Standard | Enhanced safeguards |
| Software | iOS 14.5+ | Designed for iOS 26 |
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AirTag 2 Expected Features
According to the latest leaks found in iOS 26’s internal code, Apple appears to be preparing several major upgrades for the second-generation AirTag. These improvements focus on tracking performance, location accuracy, battery reporting, and a more intuitive user experience.
1. “Improved Moving” Tracking
This is believed to be the most significant upgrade coming to AirTag 2.
The “Improved Moving” system discovered in iOS 26 suggests Apple is enhancing how AirTag updates its position when the tracked object is moving, such as on bikes, cars, pets, luggage, or backpacks.
Even more importantly, AirTag 2 may deliver:
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Higher tracking precision in crowded environments (airports, concerts, malls)
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Better interference resistance, allowing more accurate results when many Bluetooth or UWB devices are nearby
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More stable real-time updates, reducing latency and location drift
This addresses one of the biggest limitations of the current AirTag, which often becomes less reliable in high-interference areas.
2. A More Streamlined Pairing Experience
iOS 26 includes redesigned accessory-pairing frameworks, hinting that AirTag 2 will offer:
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Faster initial setup
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Smoother detection and identification
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A more intuitive pairing animation and configuration screen
This should make the onboarding process feel more modern and consistent with Apple’s newer accessory setup style.
3. Stronger Precision Finding Capabilities
AirTag 2 is expected to take advantage of an upgraded Ultra-Wideband chip—likely a newer generation of Apple’s U-series silicon.
This upgrade may provide:
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More responsive directional guidance
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Improved distance and angle calculations
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Higher accuracy when locating lost items indoors or outdoors
Precision Finding is already a key selling point of AirTag, and this update would make it even more powerful.
4. More Detailed Battery Status Reporting
Current AirTags only display “Low Battery” without showing real percentages.
Leaked battery-reporting assets in iOS 26 point to:
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More precise percentage-based reporting
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Better prediction of remaining battery life
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Improved accessory battery health insight
This will help users understand exactly when they need to replace the battery — and avoid losing items due to sudden depletion.
5. Better Performance in High-Interference and Multi-Device Environments
Based on the new location algorithms found in iOS 26, AirTag 2 may significantly improve performance in the following scenarios:
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Crowded areas with thousands of wireless signals
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Locations with many iPhones contributing to the Find My network
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Multi-device tracking situations (homes, offices, travel hubs)
These improvements suggest smoother, more consistent accuracy even when the wireless environment is complex.
When Will AirTag 2 Launch?
Right now, all signs point to early–mid 2026.
Based on firmware references and past accessory release schedules, the most realistic windows are:
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March 2026 (Spring Event)
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June 2026 (WWDC)
AirTag is typically tied closely to iPhone software, so WWDC is actually a pretty strong candidate—especially since all these leaks come directly from iOS 26.
Final Thoughts
Apple hasn’t officially announced AirTag 2 yet, but the combination of iOS 26 code, multiple trustworthy reports, and Apple’s usual upgrade cycle makes the 2026 release timeline highly likely. And based on the leaks so far, this is shaping up to be one of the most practical hardware updates Apple has planned for next year.
