Apple has launched its second-generation AirTag with a louder speaker, improved range, and a new ultra-wideband chip. While the design looks the same as before, the new AirTag’s features depend heavily on the iPhone or Apple Watch you use. Some advanced tracking features are limited to newer devices.
To set up and use the new AirTag, users need an iPhone running iOS 26 or later, or an iPad running iPadOS 26 or later. This means only iPhones launched in 2019 or later are supported.
Supported iPhones for AirTag setup and basic tracking
The new AirTag is compatible with the following iPhone models:
- iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max
- iPhone 12, 12 mini, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max
- iPhone 13, 13 mini, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max
- iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max
- iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max
- iPhone 16e, 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, 16 Pro Max
- iPhone 17, 17 Pro, 17 Pro Max
- iPhone Air
- iPhone SE (2020) and iPhone SE (2022)
If your iPhone is not on this list, the new AirTag will not work. Apple no longer sells the original AirTag, but first-generation AirTags can still be used if purchased from third-party sellers.
iPhones that support an extended Precision Finding range
The new AirTag includes a second-generation ultra-wideband chip that extends Precision Finding range by up to 50 percent. However, this benefit requires an iPhone with the latest UWB hardware.
Extended Precision Finding is available on:
- iPhone 15 series
- iPhone 16 series, except iPhone 16e
- iPhone 17 series
- iPhone Air
Other supported iPhones can still use Precision Finding, but the range will be similar to the original AirTag.
Apple Watch compatibility
Apple has also expanded Precision Finding support to Apple Watch. The feature works on:
- Apple Watch Series 9 or later
- Apple Watch Ultra 2 or later
These watches must be running watchOS 26.2.1 or later.
The new AirTag keeps the same physical design as the original, so all existing AirTag accessories remain compatible. While the tracker works with many Apple devices, the full experience is clearly designed for users on Apple’s newer hardware.
Related Posts
