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Apple just announced a new AirTag -- but it's still lacking features found on my favorite Bluetooth tracker
On paper, the AirTag 2 doesn't seem like much of an improvement. Stay tuned for a complete review.
Rick BroidaFollow
Senior Tech Writer
Updated
Mon, January 26, 2026 at 6:33 PM UTC
Add Yahoo Tech on GoogleApple introduced the original AirTag nearly five years ago, bringing Bluetooth-powered item trackers into mainstream. Despite a few privacy and security bumps along the way, the product was still a huge hit with consumers. Because who doesn't want an easy, affordable way to locate misplaced keys, suitcases and more?
It was a long wait, but today Apple finally unveiled a new AirTag, promising louder alerts, better range and more powerful Precision Finding, too. Equally appealing, no change in price: $29 for a single, $99 for a four-pack. You can order the new AirTags starting today directly from Apple, and presumably later this week from Amazon and other stores.
Before you do, however, consider waiting for my review, which will be along in a few days. In the interim, know this: At first blush, I am... underwhelmed.
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It's not that the AirTag 2's improvements aren't welcome — it's that they don't go far enough. I say this having recently tested the best Bluetooth trackers, several of which are superior to AirTags in nearly every way.
Here's what we didn't get from Apple:
Two-way tracking: For years I've been crowing about Tile trackers because they can be used to find a misplaced phone, not just the other way around. More recently, trackers from Chipolo and Pebblebee have added this feature while retaining compatibility with Apple's Find My network. I live with someone who misplaces her phone in the house constantly; it's why she will only use a two-way tracker, not an AirTag. This was, to me, the biggest letdown in the AirTag 2 announcement.
A keyring hole: If you want to attach the new AirTag to a keychain, backpack or anything else, you'll still have to buy a keyring holder or similar accessory. I understand Apple trying to keep the design minimal, but the AirTag is almost, by definition, a keychain accessory. Nearly every competing product has a built-in hole, loop or the like.
A rechargeable battery: The new AirTag is still good for up to a year on its CR2032 battery, but when the time comes, you'll have to toss it and swap in a new one. Meanwhile, most other trackers are rechargeable, either via USB-C or Qi wireless charging.
A wallet-friendly version: An AirTag can ride inside a purse just fine, but it's not meant for wallets. Several other companies have developed card-size trackers designed exactly for that purpose. (You can read about my favorites in the aforementioned story on the best trackers.) The AirTag 2 has the same dimensions as its predecessor; it's similarly wallet-unsuitable.
No emergency-assistance features: My current-favorite tracker, the Pebblebee Clip 5, doubles as a sort of emergency beacon. With eight rapid presses, it emits an audible alarm, flashes its LEDs and sends alerts to designated contacts (assuming your phone is within range, that is). There's no added charge for any of this, either.
Let's not forget, too, that AirTags aren't compatible with Android phones. (They're able to detect the presence of an AirTag — to prevent someone from surreptitiously tracking you — but you can't use them to find an AirTag.)
All that said, I'll withhold final judgement until I'm able to test the new AirTag. I'm definitely curious to see how the Bluetooth range compares and measure the decibel level of the upgraded speaker.
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Right now, however, if I'm choosing between a $29 AirTag 2 and a $35 Pebblebee Clip 5, it's the latter by a mile.