All articles tagged with #precision finding
Google launches Pixel Tag, an AirTag-like tracker for Android that uses Ultra Wideband for precise finding (requires UWB-enabled devices) and Bluetooth-based distance on newer Android versions; IP67 water/dust resistance, replaceable CR2032 battery, $29 for a single tag or $99 for a four-pack, with shipments starting Aug 20.
iOS 27 brings a suite of AirPods updates: custom EQ for AirPods Pro 2/3, AirPods 4, and AirPods Max 2; a redesigned, more compact AirPods settings page; Siri AI support via a connected iPhone; Precision Finding for AirPods Pro 3 (with UWB) plus GymKit syncing; Name Recognition for accessibility. Some features require specific AirPods models and an iPhone with Apple Intelligence, plus updated firmware. A public beta arrives in July and iOS 27 launches in September.
Apple's second-gen AirTag keeps the familiar look but improves findability: upgraded Bluetooth and a second-gen Ultra Wideband chip extend Precision Finding range to well over twice that of the original, plus a louder, higher-pitched chime; it supports Precision Finding on certain Apple Watch models with a setup tweak in the Control Center; the white shell now uses 85% recycled plastic; pricing is $29 for a single tag or $99 for a four-pack, and existing AirTag accessories remain compatible—upgrade mainly benefits users who rely on Find My for important items or watch-based locating.
Apple’s second-generation AirTag adds longer Precision Finding range (up to 50% farther) with support on iPhone and Apple Watch Series 9+ / Ultra 2, a louder speaker, and an upgraded Ultra Wideband chip, plus several internal tweaks (thinner PCB, revised battery connectors) and a redesigned box, while keeping the same exterior design and Find My compatibility. The first-generation AirTag remains a solid lower-cost option for basic Find My use. For most buyers, upgrading makes sense mainly if you rely on precise locating or watch-assisted searches; otherwise, the newer model offers the most complete feature set going forward.
Apple’s second-generation AirTag largely preserves the look of the first but adds a faster Ultra Wideband chip for 1.5x better detection and Precision Finding, now usable with Apple Watch Series 9/Ultra 2 after a watchOS update. It also offers a longer Bluetooth range and a louder, clearer chime. Pricing stays $29 per tag or $99 for a four-pack, with first-gen units widely discounted in the market; Gen 2 can be distinguished by all-caps edge text and markings like FIND MY, NFC, and IP67.
Apple says iOS 26.2.1 and watchOS 26.2.1 are arriving soon as minor updates, likely with bug fixes and security patches. watchOS 26.2.1 expands Precision Finding to the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 (whether it also works with older AirTag models isn’t confirmed). The AirTag requires an iPhone running iOS 26.2.1 or later, per Apple’s notes.
The AirPods Pro 3, launching on September 19, will feature an improved Precision Finding capability that is exclusive to iPhone 17 and iPhone Air models, thanks to the new Ultra Wideband U2 chip, offering a 1.5x increase in tracking distance. This feature's full potential appears limited to the latest iPhone models, with unclear benefits for older iPhones.
The iPhone 15 series features a second-generation Ultra-Wideband chip that allows users to locate nearby friends with the Precision Finding feature. A video demonstration shows the iPhone 15 connecting to a phone 60 meters away, significantly beyond the range of previous-generation iPhones and AirTags. The feature provides continuously updating distance and direction indicators, and the new chip offers up to three times the range of its predecessor.
A woman in the Netherlands was able to recover her stolen bike thanks to an Apple AirTag that she had hidden on it. After realizing her bike had been stolen, she used the Find My app to track its location in real time and alerted the police. The stolen bike was found exactly where the app indicated, and the Precision Finding feature helped confirm its ownership. The police are now reviewing street camera footage to identify the thief. AirTag has been credited with helping recover lost items in various situations, including cash, luggage, and even a stolen mascot.