Apple introduced AirTag in 2021 as a simple tracking accessory for everyday items like keys, bags, and wallets. Since then, Apple has not released a new version. Four years later, AirTag still looks and works the same. There has been no successor, no refresh, and no official statement from Apple. This long gap has made many people wonder if Apple is still working on the product or if it has quietly pushed it aside.
Despite the lack of new hardware, AirTag has not disappeared. In fact, its usage has grown over time. Many users rely on it for travel, daily use, and even professional equipment tracking. Apple has also continued to improve AirTag through software updates. Features related to privacy, safety alerts, and Android detection were all added after launch. This shows that Apple never abandoned AirTag. Instead, it chose to support it through software while keeping the hardware unchanged.
Also Read: How to Replace AirTag Battery
One important reason AirTag has lasted this long, even without any refresh, is the Find My network. AirTag depends on nearby Apple devices to report its location. As iPhones, iPads, and Macs improve with each iOS update, the Find My network also becomes stronger. This allowed Apple to extend the life of the first-generation AirTag without making it feel outdated.
Soon after AirTag launched, there were reports of misuse, especially related to stalking. Apple faced pressure to fix these issues quickly. Over time, the company added sound alerts, tracking notifications, and tools for Android users. Releasing a new AirTag before addressing these concerns could have caused more criticism. Apple likely focused on fixing the system first before moving to new hardware.
Now, after years of speculation, iOS 26 has offered the clearest signs yet that AirTag 2 is real.
A recent report claims that an internal build of iOS 26 includes references to unreleased Apple products. Among them is a new version of AirTag. Inside the code, the device is labeled as “2025AirTag.” This strongly suggests that Apple has been developing a successor and originally planned to release it earlier. But not sure why the company delayed the product.
Deal: Buy Apple AirTag on Amazon
The iOS 26 code also points to several new features that appear to be exclusive to the next AirTag. These features suggest real hardware changes, not just software updates.
One of the biggest upgrades is expected to be a new Ultra Wideband chip. Apple introduced a second-generation Ultra Wideband chip with the iPhone 15 series. It offers a much longer range for Precision Finding. If this chip comes to AirTag 2, users will be able to locate items from much farther away and with better accuracy.
Another improvement mentioned in the code relates to tracking moving objects. Current AirTags do not perform well when the tracked item is in motion. This includes bags on airport belts or items inside vehicles. iOS 26 hints at better handling of movement, which could make real-world tracking more reliable.
There are also references to improved tracking in crowded places. Areas like airports, malls, and stations often cause confusion for trackers due to signal noise. Apple appears to be working on better filtering and location accuracy in such environments.
Battery information is another area getting attention. The next AirTag is expected to show more detailed battery status instead of just basic low battery alerts. This would help users plan battery replacements better.
An improved pairing process is also mentioned. While pairing an AirTag is already easy, Apple seems to be refining the experience further. This could include faster setup, clearer naming options, or better on-screen guidance.
In terms of design, there are no strong signs of a major visual change. AirTag 2 is expected to keep the same shape and size. And I also don’t see any reason to update the design because it is perfect for an item tracker.
AirTag 2 will likely continue using a replaceable CR2032 battery. However, Apple may adjust how the battery compartment opens to improve child safety.
Deal: Pack of CR2032 battery
Apple may also make changes to the built-in speaker. There have been cases where the speaker was removed to prevent sound alerts. Making the speaker harder to remove would strengthen AirTag’s safety features without affecting normal use. We can expect an improvement in this.
There is also a broader ecosystem angle. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has suggested that AirTag could play a role in Apple’s spatial computing plans, including Vision Pro. While details are unclear, a more advanced Ultra Wideband chip could allow AirTag to work as a spatial reference point in future applications.
As for the launch timeline, earlier rumors pointed to late 2025. However, since that did not happen, the launch now appears to have shifted. Based on current information, early 2026 seems more likely.
iOS 26 also includes references to other upcoming Apple products, such as a new HomePod mini and a home hub device. This makes the AirTag 2 references more believable. They appear to be part of a larger internal roadmap rather than isolated code fragments.
Even if there is a four-year gap in launching the successor, it does not seem accidental. The company relied on software updates, addressed safety concerns, and waited for meaningful hardware improvements before moving forward. Better range, better movement tracking, improved safety, and deeper ecosystem support appear to be the focus. If these changes arrive as expected, the long wait may finally make sense for users who rely on AirTag every day.
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