Apple Unveils Next-Generation AirTag with Enhanced Range and Louder Alerts
SYDNEY, 27 January 2026 – Apple has launched a significantly upgraded version of its popular AirTag item tracker, marking the first major hardware revision since the accessory’s debut in 2021. Announced yesterday, the new AirTag boasts a 50 per cent louder speaker, extended Bluetooth and Ultra Wideband range for finding lost items, and deeper integration with airlines to help recover misplaced luggage.
Enhanced Precision and Findability
The core of the upgrade is Apple’s second-generation Ultra Wideband chip, which also powers the latest iPhone 17 lineup and Apple Watches. This new silicon enables Precision Finding to guide users to a lost item from up to 50 per cent farther away than the previous model, using directional arrows, haptic feedback, and audio cues on a compatible iPhone.
For the first time, this Precision Finding capability is also available directly on the wrist with an Apple Watch Series 9 or later, or an Apple Watch Ultra 2 or later. Furthermore, an upgraded internal design makes the new AirTag’s speaker 50 per cent louder, with a more distinctive chime, allowing it to be heard from roughly twice the distance.
A Travel Companion with Airline Partnerships
Apple is emphasising the AirTag’s role for travellers through an expanded “Share Item Location” feature. Users can now generate a secure, temporary link to share an item’s location—such as a suitcase with a missing AirTag inside—directly with a participating airline’s customer service team.
The company has partnered with over 50 global carriers, including Qantas, Air New Zealand, Singapore Airlines, and Cathay Pacific. According to data from aviation IT provider SITA, airlines using this technology have reported a 26 per cent reduction in baggage delays and a 90 per cent drop in permanently lost luggage incidents.
Security, Privacy, and Sustainable Design
Apple reaffirms that the AirTag is designed exclusively for tracking items, not people or pets. The new model incorporates enhanced protections against unwanted tracking, including cross-platform alerts and frequently changing Bluetooth identifiers. All location data is protected with end-to-end encryption, and no location history is stored on the device itself.
Aligning with Apple’s environmental goals, the new AirTag is constructed with 85 per cent recycled plastic in its enclosure, uses 100 per cent recycled rare earth elements in its magnets, and features 100 per cent recycled gold plating in its circuit boards. The packaging is fully fibre-based.
Pricing, Availability, and Key Details
The new AirTag retains the same compact, coin-shaped design, ensuring compatibility with all existing AirTag accessories, including key rings and holders. It is powered by a user-replaceable CR2032 coin cell battery.
In Australia, the new AirTag is priced from AUD$49 for a single unit and AUD$165 for a four-pack. Free personalised engraving is available when ordering through Apple’s online store. The accessory is available to order now and will arrive in Apple Store locations and authorised resellers in the coming days.
| Feature / Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Core Upgrades | 50% louder speaker, Precision Finding range extended by 50%, new second-gen Ultra Wideband chip. |
| Apple Watch Support | Precision Finding now works on Apple Watch Series 9 or later, and Apple Watch Ultra 2 or later. |
| System Requirements | Requires an iPhone or iPad with iOS 26 / iPadOS 26 or later. An Apple ID and iCloud account with Find My enabled are needed. |
| Battery | User-replaceable CR2032 coin cell (over one year of battery life). |
| Australian Pricing (RRP) | 1-Pack: AUD$49 | 4-Pack: AUD$165 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the new AirTag compatible with my old iPhone?
The new AirTag requires a device running iOS 26 or iPadOS 26. However, to use the enhanced Precision Finding feature, you will need an iPhone 15 or later, or an iPhone Air. Older compatible iPhones will still be able to use the core tracking features via the Find My network.
How is this different from the original AirTag?
The key differences are a significantly louder speaker, the ability to find items from farther away using Precision Finding, compatibility with Precision Finding on newer Apple Watches, and deeper integration with the “Share Item Location” feature for airlines. The design and battery remain the same.
Can I still use my old AirTag key rings and accessories?
Yes. Apple has maintained the exact same form factor, so all existing AirTag accessories are fully compatible with the new model.
When will it be available in Australian stores?
The new AirTag is available to order online from Apple today, and will be available for purchase in Apple Store locations and through authorised resellers later this week.