Teardown reveals: Apple AirTag 2 is full of hidden changes
According to a new teardown video, the Apple AirTag 2 features numerous notable internal changes. Externally, the second-generation AirTag is virtually indistinguishable from the original and still uses a standard CR2032 coin cell battery.
The only visual differences are minor changes to the text on the back, which is now written entirely in capital letters indicating the IP67 certification for water and dust resistance as well as support for NFC and “Find My”.
The Apple AirTag 2’s mainboard is significantly thinner than its predecessor’s. The battery connectors are positioned differently, and the new board features additional test areas, likely related to manufacturing or diagnostics. Taylor also noticed new markings inside the battery compartment, including a QR code-like graphic.
Apple AirTag 2 better protected
The speaker unit has also been changed. The speaker coil embedded in the plastic housing appears slightly larger than in the first generation AirTag, while the speaker magnet is more firmly attached. On the original AirTag, the magnet could be removed relatively easily, allowing for comparatively simple modifications. On the second-generation model, the magnet is more firmly attached and significantly more difficult to remove.
Taylor speculated that the increased use of adhesive might be related to tamper protection measures. Despite removing the speaker coil and magnet, the device was still able to connect to his iPhone, suggesting that Apple has not implemented a firmware lock or warning triggered by physical modifications.
After pairing the Apple AirTag 2 with an iPhone the tone emitted by the AirTag is slightly higher-pitched than before. One user on X noticed that the tone changed from “F” to “G”.
Apple has also redesigned the AirTags packaging. The new box is slimmer and has an updated front design. The UV printing gives the logo a slightly raised effect, and the box now features self-adhesive tabs. Inside, the cardboard insert containing the AirTags is simpler: a single paper closure holds the lid over the compartment, where the AirTags are arranged in rows of four. In the original packaging, the AirTags were housed in a double-folded folder, arranged in rows of two.
