The next generation of AirTags is coming: This is what it should bring with it

Unfortunately, Apple is only able to outgrow a few product categories after several years. This was true for the AirPods Max or HomePods, for example, but even products like the Mac Pro or Mac Studio have taken years to have new versions. The picture is similar to AirTags, of which Apple has sold many millions of units: Since the introduction of Bluetooth and ultra-wideband trackers in April 2021, Apple has only worked on firmware and operating system support, but not touched the hardware further. . Apparently that’s now changing: many observers have heard that “AirTags 2” will appear by mid-2025 at the latest. But what could Apple change and/or do better?

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Better range and maybe wifi

AirTags themselves are a successful product. With a little luck, they can be obtained for less than 30 euros and then do what they should do: record the location of the object to which they are attached or inserted. This also works well where Apple devices are nearby – because “Find My?” Finding Network uses their (anonymously) recorded GPS and WiFi locations. It cannot be assumed that this will change with AirTags 2, as integrating GPS and mobile communications into small trackers will consume a lot of power.

Still, the range of the AirTags 2 should improve – for example through better Bluetooth, UWB and possibly WLAN components. The latter can also supplement the location recording with additional data. The fact that the AirTags have a CR2032 battery that is replaceable (it lasts for months) means it is not changing, even if competing devices have rechargeable batteries. According to Bloomberg reporter Mark Gurman, the new AirTags are codenamed “B589.”

Blackview Tab 60 in test

Form Factor: There’s Something Else Going On

One still unanswered question is the form factor of the AirTags 2. It may remain in the current pill or candy form, but it is not really practical. AirTags can only be attached to objects using additional materials such as cases. This certainly keeps the cash registers active for Apple and other peripheral manufacturers. Manufacturers of Find My compatible accessories are already moving forward, offering trackers with integrated eyelets or even flat credit card-sized devices. If Apple wants, it can play here also.

A fundamental problem with AirTags remains that the trackers are only partially suitable for theft protection – keyword anti-stalker function. Apple always emphasizes that it sells item trackers, not “anti-theft devices.” Nevertheless, AirTags are used for this, even if the trackers report nearby cell phones, making noise and thus exposing people to the search for thieves. Apple is unlikely to introduce a real “theft tracker”.

(B.Sc.)