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The much-rumored second generation of Apple's AirTags appears to be getting closer, as code snippets within iOS 26 refer to as yet unreleased features.

Apple did rather hit it out of the park with the original AirTags. They have become globally-used, pet-saving essentials and not been updated since its launch in April 2021.

Persistent rumors have repeatedly claimed that an updated second generation will be released during 2025, and now there's at least a hint they could be coming soon. That's according to code snippets in iOS 26 by MacWorld.

The code, which has not been revealed, reportedly does not mention AirTags 2 by name. However, it involves changes to how AirTags are managed, and specifically to do with how Bluetooth communication works between the AirTag and Apple devices.

There are also battery-related references in the code, though again they are not specifically listed as being for new AirTags.

Improved battery life and more precise location finding, however, are the key things Apple is expected to bring with the new generation.

Specifically, it's expected that Apple will use an improved Ultra Wideband processor. Precision Finding currently works at up to around 98 feet from the AirTag, where the expected improved version could extend to 295 feet.

There is very little that can realistically be changed in an AirTag, because of its size and few components. But one other previous rumor was that its loudspeaker volume would be increased.

At present, there is no indication that Apple will change the form factor of the AirTags. Although there are third-party alternatives that use Apple's Find My network, yet are credit-card shaped instead of being like a round button.