Apple just launched AirTag 2, the next generation of trackers. But how do they work? What’s the difference between them and AirTag 1? Which one is best?
AirTags are tracking devices first launched by Apple on April 20, 2021. Round and pocket-sized, they were designed to help users find lost items such as wallets, keys, suitcases, backpacks, and more.
On January 26, 2026, Apple itself introduced AirTag 2, the second generation of trackers with numerous new features and privacy features. All this at a still competitive price.
But what are the main differences between the two versions? Is it worth upgrading to AirTag 2? In this guide, we’ll look at the main features, similarities, and any other information you need to know.
How the Apple AirTag 1 Works
The Apple AirTag is a tracker that relies entirely on the Bluetooth network, and doesn’t use GPS like other similar devices. Whenever a tracker is far from you, it emits a secure Bluetooth signal that is detected by all nearby Apple devices on the Find My network.
Each device that detects the AirTag sends its location to iCloud in an encrypted format, and neither Apple nor the owner of the other iPhone knows which device detected it.
If you’re close to the object, about 10 meters indoors, you can use the Precise Location feature to find out exactly where it is and to play a sound through the built-in speaker.
If you lose an item, you can activate Lost Mode. In this case, anyone who finds the AirTag can hold it up to an NFC-enabled smartphone to display a link with your phone number and a message to return it.
A replaceable CR2032 battery with a life of one year and IP67 resistance for water and dust complete the package.
How to find lost items with AirTag
Let’s say you attached the AirTag to your checked luggage during a long flight and it got lost. Or you left your backpack on the bus. How do you track and find your items with AirTag?
Here are the steps to follow:
- Open the Find My app on your iPhone and go to the Items section;
- Select the AirTag to see its last detected location on the map;
If it’s not nearby, enable Lost Mode to receive a notification as soon as another Apple device detects the signal.
If you know the object is nearby but can’t see it, you can enable Sound Search as follows:
- Open the Find My app on your iPhone and go to the Items section;
- Select the AirTag and then tap Play Sound;
Finally, if you have an iPhone 11 or later, you can enable Precision Location for a more accurate search as follows:
- Open the Find My app on your iPhone and go to the Items section;
- Tap the Find button;
- An arrow will appear indicating the exact direction and distance in meters.
Warning: Precision Finding does not work in all countries, such as Argentina, Russia, Indonesia, Pakistan, and Paraguay.
How to Recharge the AirTag Battery
The AirTag does not require charging. Apple explains that the device’s battery lasts for one year before needing to be replaced. The AirTag uses a non-Apple CR2032 battery.
This means you don’t have to go to the Apple Store to replace it; you can purchase one at any electronics store or online store. To remove the AirTag battery and replace it, simply push it down and rotate the back plate.
How Apple’s AirTag 2 Works
As anticipated, on January 26, 2026 Apple officially announced AirTag 2, the second generation of the tracker, which brings significant technological improvements.
Its operation is almost identical to the first generation. The Find My network via Bluetooth is working; every nearby device sends a signal, and when you’re near your tracker, you can activate sounds and location updates.
With the introduction of AirTag 2, the first major innovation concerns the new second-generation Ultra Wideband chip, which we’ve already seen in iPhone 17 and Apple Watch Series 11. In practical terms, this integration guarantees a 50% greater connectivity range compared to AirTag 1.
The internal speaker is also 50% louder, making the tracker audible even when it’s under a pillow, in noisy environments, or inside a suitcase.
Another new feature is the Precision Location feature, which is no longer exclusive to iPhone but can also be used with an Apple Watch Series 9 or Ultra 2 and later.
Finally, there’s Secure Sharing for Travel, with a button that lets you generate temporary, secure links to share your item’s location with trusted people, such as airline ground staff. This link expires after you retrieve your suitcase.
What are the differences between AirTag and AirTag 2
At first glance, the AirTag and AirTag 2 are very similar. In an effort to continue its commitment to eco-sustainability and cost savings, Apple has decided to leave the size and shape of the tracker’s case unchanged.
This way, all accessories will remain compatible with the second-generation AirTag. What has changed, however, is what’s under the hood.
Starting with the Second-generation U2 chip, with a 50% greater accuracy range. The same goes, as mentioned, for the speaker, which is 50% louder.
Overall, the sound has been completely overhauled and is now more distinctive. This decision addresses the numerous criticisms received from users over the years.
Location sharing with temporary links has been improved, and Apple Watch support is now available. There are no reported differences in the battery, which remains a CR2032 coin cell. Finally, for operating system compatibility, the AirTag 1 requires iOS 14.5 or later, while the AirTag 2 requires at least iOS 26.2.1.
Which is better to buy: AirTag 1 or AirTag 2
The choice between AirTag 1 and AirTag 2 depends on your needs and budget. While they basically cost the same, as the weeks go by, the first generation will likely see further price reductions and discounts.
It’s clear, however, that by purchasing the AirTag 2, you’re getting the best location tracking experience ever. This is thanks to the chip with 50% greater range and 50% louder audio, as well as compatibility with the new Apple Watch and the lost luggage feature.
AirTag 1 is a good compromise if you only need it for home use, perhaps to track your house keys, and if you have an older iPhone that doesn’t update to iOS 26.
Original article published on Money.it Italy. Original title: Come funziona l’AirTag Apple e quanto costa
