Apple launches second-generation AirTag on January 26 with a more extended range and louder alerts
On Monday, Apple announced a second-generation AirTag, its first hardware update to the item-tracking device since its 2021 launch. Revealed on January 26, 2026, the new AirTag has the familiar disc-shaped design, and it will cost around $29 for better tracking and safety, with major internal upgrades added.
The biggest change is a new second-generation Ultra Wideband (UWB) chip. Apple says it improves Precision Finding accuracy and increases tracking range by 50 percent compared to the original model. This allows users to locate lost items from farther away using compatible iPhones and Apple Watches.
Apple has also made the built-in speaker 50 percent louder. The company says this will help users hear the AirTag more clearly in busy or noisy places, such as airports, parking lots, or crowded streets.
Privacy and safety remain a focus in the new model.
To use all Precision Finding features, users will need devices running iOS 26 or iPadOS 26 or later. Supported Apple Watch models must also be updated to watchOS 26.2.1.
After the announcement X (Twitter) got flooded with reactions which were mostly practical, personal, and a bit funny. Instead of talking about technical details, people focused on how the update solves everyday problems.
One user joked that with a louder speaker and better range, their keys won’t be able to “Ghost” anymore — a feeling many related to after years of searching through bags and rooms. She added that Apple must have learned from users constantly using the Find My app in frustration.
If this is real… louder speaker + better range = finally my keys can’t ghost me in peace 😭🔍
Apple really looked at my “Find My” history and said “we can fix her.”
— Minji (@Minjini6974) January 26, 2026
Some people also pointed out more serious uses, like tracking pets that wander farther than expected, especially dogs or cats that slip out of the house.
This is useful for pet owners. You can now track a pet (dog/cat) that escaped farther than expected.
— Moe (@moemoe889) January 26, 2026
Others kept it simple, saying the louder speaker alone makes the AirTag much more helpful and reliable.
Better range and louder speaker make this a solid upgrade.
— Kh Reddy (@KhReddy2025) January 26, 2026
Even with the internal changes, the new AirTag still works with all existing accessories, including Apple’s FineWoven Key Ring and third-party holders. This means users don’t need to buy new keychains, cases, or mounts.
By keeping the same price while improving performance and safety, Apple is reinforcing its position in the tracking accessory market, which has grown into a major business since AirTag’s debut.
