Apple just changed AirTag 2’s anti-stalking feature

Apple shipped new AirTag firmware yesterday, the first update since AirTag 2 launched earlier this year. And now thanks to official release notes, we know that the new firmware improves AirTag’s anti-stalking feature.

When the first AirTag launched in 2021, it quickly became popular for tracking luggage, keys, and other important items.

Unfortunately, AirTag was also used by bad actors for unwanted tracking of other people.

Apple later instituted anti-stalking measures. These include sending iPhone notifications to the person being unknowingly tracked, and playing using the AirTag speaker to aid detection.

AirTag 2 was upgraded with an improved speaker that Apple says is up to 50% louder. This is great for anyone looking for a lost AirTag, but it also benefits those searching for an AirTag they don’t own.

And in the new AirTag firmware release notes, Apple reveals that it has made a change to the noise that plays when an unwanted AirTag is detected.

AirTag Firmware Update 3.0.45

• Updates the unwanted tracking sound to more easily locate an unknown AirTag during Precision Finding.
• Bug fixes and other improvements.

Though the release notes don’t specify models, as far as we’re aware this change only applies to the new AirTag 2, not the first-gen model.

I haven’t yet had the opportunity to find an unwanted AirTag traveling with me, so it’s unclear how exactly Apple has updated the noise.

It’s possible that it’s louder than before. Perhaps the tone has been modified to be easier to hear at a distance. Or some combination of both.

Whatever the specifics may be, Apple clearly believes the updated sound will make it easier for users to find unwanted AirTags.

Have you heard the updated AirTag sound for unwanted tracking? Let us know what it’s like via the comments.

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