A leak from the iOS 26 beta code reveals detailed upgrades for AirTag 2 and HomePod mini 2. Apple is planning improvements to tracking precision, battery display and processor performance that have been overdue since the 2021 and 2020 launches. Preparations point to a release in the first half of 2026.
- AirTag 2: Easier pairing, percentage battery indicator, more precise precision finding.
- AirTag 2: New “Improved Moving” feature and better tracking in crowded areas.
- HomePod mini 2: Upgrade to S10 chip with 2 GB RAM.
- Both devices: Support already integrated in iOS 26.
AirTag 2: Five practical tracking upgrades
The code of an iOS 26 beta lists five specific improvements for the AirTag successor. Pairing with iPhones is to become less complicated, making it easier for newcomers to get started. The battery indicator returns as a percentage value – a feature that Apple had omitted from the original to avoid inaccuracies. Precision Finding uses the ultra-wideband chip for exact distance and direction display and is even more accurate.
A new “Improved Moving” feature helps to locate moving AirTags, for example in a forgotten wallet. In addition, Apple is optimizing tracking in scenarios with a lot of surroundings, such as shopping malls, where interference used to be a problem. These upgrades make the tracker more robust for everyday use and address common points of criticism.
HomePod mini 2: Five years newer S10 processor
The HomePod mini primarily receives an internal update: the S5 chip from the Apple Watch Series 11 is replaced by the S10, which indicates 2 GB of RAM and increases performance for smart home functions. Despite Wi-Fi 4 limitation, this improves voice processing, music playback and integration with Siri. Apple is preparing iOS 26 support, enabling seamless updates.
The small speaker remains compact, but the chip jump closes the gap to newer devices. Plausible given the four-year cycle: similar upgrades have been seen with AirPods and Watch models.
Leak sources and schedule
Macworld discovered the clues in the internal code, which also anticipates Studio Display and iPads. Bloomberg sources support earlier rumors. A release in the first half of 2026 fits Apple’s rhythm – the AirTag currently costs around 27 euros, HomePod mini around 100 euros. Price adjustments are likely.
The plausibility results from Apple’s iterations: Tracking features evolve continuously, chips are upgraded centrally.
Conclusion
AirTag 2 and HomePod mini 2 each promise noticeable progress in precision and performance with five upgrades. The leak from iOS 26 makes an imminent launch likely. Current models remain available; prices for successors are likely to be similar.
