Five years after the original AirTag debuted, Apple has introduced the second-generation model with several internal upgrades.
While the design remains unchanged, buyers now face a key question: is AirTag 2 worth the upgrade, or does the first-generation AirTag still make sense?
Both the first- and second-generation AirTags are designed to help users track personal items using Apple’s Find My network.
At their core, both models offer similar battery life, accessory compatibility, and long-distance tracking. However, Apple has made a number of small but notable changes in the newer version.
The biggest upgrade in AirTag 2 is the second-generation Ultra Wideband chip.
This allows for up to 50% longer Precision Finding range compared to the original AirTag, making it easier to locate items more accurately.
Precision
With the first-generation AirTag, Precision Finding works only on iPhone.
The second-generation AirTag adds support for Apple Watch Series 9 and later, as well as Apple Watch Ultra 2, giving users more flexibility when tracking items.
Bluetooth and privacy
Apple has also upgraded Bluetooth performance in AirTag 2, increasing its effective range.
In addition, Bluetooth identifiers now rotate more frequently, improving privacy compared to the original model’s standard rotation intervals.
Louder speaker
AirTag 2 features a speaker that is up to 50% louder, making it easier to hear in noisy environments or when hidden inside bags or luggage.
Apple has also slightly changed the chime note, shifting it from F to G.
Software
The second-generation AirTag requires iOS 26.2.1 or later, while the original model supports earlier iOS versions.
Resetting the newer AirTag also requires removing the battery for at least five seconds between cycles, unlike the first-generation model.
Weight, text
AirTag 2 weighs 11.8g, making it around 7% heavier than the original 11g AirTag.
The back text has changed as well, now listing IP67, NFC, and Find My, instead of “Assembled in China” and “Designed by Apple.”
Internally, the newer AirTag features a thinner main PCB, revised battery connectors, additional test markings, and a slightly larger speaker coil.
Apple has also refreshed the packaging.
AirTag 2 comes in a narrower box with updated artwork, raised UV-printed text, and paper pull tabs, replacing the older plastic pull tabs. The inner tray has been simplified and now holds up to four AirTags in a cleaner layout.
Which AirTag makes more sense?
For users who rely heavily on Precision Finding, the second-generation AirTag offers clear advantages thanks to its longer range, louder speaker, and Apple Watch support.
However, the first-generation AirTag remains a solid option for everyday use, such as tracking keys, bags, or household items—especially if it is available at a discounted price.
