Apple AirTag 2 Speaker Vulnerability Exposed
Just days after the release of Apple’s AirTag 2, a detailed teardown by iFixIt has revealed that the new device’s speakers remain susceptible to tampering. Despite expectations that Apple would enhance security measures, the second-generation AirTag does not feature a tamper-proof speaker design. iFixIt demonstrated that it is still relatively straightforward to disable the AirTag’s speaker without damaging the device’s overall functionality, simply by removing two wires with a soldering iron.
Upgraded Hardware and Features
The teardown also uncovered some notable hardware improvements in the AirTag 2. It houses an upgraded system on a chip (SoC) alongside the new U2 Ultra Wideband chip, the same found in Apple’s latest iPhone 17 series, Apple Watch Ultra 3, and Apple Watch Series 11. This enhanced Ultra Wideband technology allows for more precise location tracking, making it easier to find misplaced items.
Additionally, the AirTag 2 includes an improved Bluetooth chip that extends the range at which it can be located. The Precision Finding feature now supports haptic, visual, and audio feedback, guiding users to their lost items from up to 50 percent farther away than the previous generation. However, this feature requires an iPhone 15 or newer, excluding the iPhone 16e model.
Apple has also expanded Precision Finding support to the Apple Watch Series 9 and later, as well as the Apple Watch Ultra 2 and later, provided they are running watchOS 26.2.1. Unfortunately, this functionality is not compatible with the original AirTag.
Design and Pricing
The new AirTag sports an updated design that is 50 percent louder than its predecessor, allowing audio feedback to be heard from twice the distance. Apple emphasises that the device is designed to track objects, not people or pets, and has implemented a range of industry-first protections to prevent unwanted tracking. These include cross-platform alerts and frequently changing unique Bluetooth identifiers.
Despite the upgrades, the AirTag 2 is priced at the same $29 as the original model, with a bundle of four available for $99.
Looking Ahead
While the AirTag 2 brings several improvements in tracking technology and user experience, the lack of a tamper-proof speaker may raise concerns for some users regarding security and privacy. It will be interesting to see if Apple addresses this vulnerability in future iterations. For now, the AirTag 2 remains a solid option for item tracking with enhanced features and compatibility across the latest Apple devices.
For more detailed insights, you can view the iFixIt teardown video and analysis, which provides a comprehensive look inside the new AirTag.
Source: does not work on the older AirTag though