Apple is gearing up to launch the second generation of its popular item tracker, the AirTag 2, in mid-2024. According to recent reports, while maintaining a similar design to its predecessor, the new model will introduce three major upgrades focused on performance and security.
Known internally as B389, the upcoming AirTag 2 is expected to feature an enhanced wireless chip that will extend its tracking range. This improvement could make finding lost items easier, particularly when using the Precision Finding feature.
Privacy enhancements are also at the forefront of the new design. Apple aims to address concerns about unwanted tracking by implementing improved security measures. This comes in response to previous issues where modified AirTags were being misused for stalking purposes.
The third notable change involves the speaker system. Reports suggest Apple may remove or modify the speaker design to prevent tampering. This decision appears to be a direct response to incidents where bad actors disabled speakers to create "silent AirTags" for malicious purposes.
The original AirTag, launched in April 2021, has dominated the tracking device market with its long battery life and seamless integration with Apple's Find My network. Some rumors also hint at potential AR capabilities in the new model to simplify item location.
The AirTag 2 launch will be part of Apple's broader 2024 product lineup, which may include a new smart home command center competing with Google Nest Hub and Amazon Echo Hub, updated Mac models, and new iPad variants.
As privacy concerns continue to shape product development in the tech industry, Apple's focus on security improvements in the AirTag 2 reflects the company's commitment to addressing user safety while maintaining the device's core functionality.
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