Apple AirTag 2 could be delayed until 2025 and it might be the Vision Pro’s fault
It looks like people will have to wait even longer to get their hands on the AirTag 2, as recent rumors claim that Apple is delaying the release of its tracker until 2025.
This piece of information comes from an Apple analyst and notable industry insider Ming-Chi Kuo who dropped the bomb on X (the platform formerly known as Twitter). The AirTag 2 was supposed to be released at the end of 2023, but that was postponed to the end of 2024. Now we are adding another year to the clock. Assuming all of this is true, it means users will be forced to stick with an aging device as there will be a four-year gap between the original AirTags and the second generation.
It is unknown why Apple is delaying the launch. The only other news Kuo said on X is that the tech giant has scheduled mass production of the tracker for 2025. However, we think there may be a clue in his August post.
Potential compatibility
A few months ago, Kuo claimed that Apple wants to integrate AirTag 2 into a “spatial computing… ecosystem” with the “Vision Pro at the core.”
If you’re unfamiliar with the concept, spatial computing can be considered a more advanced version of augmented reality by combining virtual and physical worlds into a seamless, immersive experience. The Vision Pro headset gives people a way to interact with this digital environment. Somehow the AirTag 2 should be part of this space. MacRumorsstate in their report that the tracker may send “position information” to the headset via its ultra-wideband chip.
What this means for spatial computing is anyone’s guess. It is possible that the device could serve as a beacon to help the Vision Pro create a virtual space. Or perhaps it offers more accurate tracking via an improved ultra-wideband chip. At this point we can only speculate.
It’s worth noting that Vision Pro is scheduled for a 2024 launch. Once it releases, we could see the AirTag 2 arrive shortly after.
Future of trackers
If and when the AirTag 2 comes out, Apple will have to bring its A-game as it faces stiff competition from rivals. A few weeks ago, Samsung launched the Galaxy SmartTag2, which has a massive battery life of up to 700 days, plus a “compact, ring-shaped design that lets you attach it to objects.” Google was supposed to debut its own tag at the Pixel 8 event, but that never materialized.
It’s possible that Google is waiting for Apple to finally add warnings for unknown trackers to iOS so it can roll out the overdue Android Find My Device network update. Once that’s done, it’ll move on to the launch of the Google AirTag, as we’re calling it. Hopefully Apple doesn’t drag its feet and updates iOS in two years to coincide with the AirTag 2.
Check out TechRadar’s latest roundup of the best Apple AirTag deals for October 2023.