Apple is at it again, slipping another shiny gadget into its long lineup. Word on the street, courtesy of Mark Gurman at Bloomberg, says they’re dusting off the AirTag, ready to push out a new version, four years after the last. They’re calling it B589—enough to make it sound like something you might find in a safe. Manufacturing tests are underway, and Apple inches closer to market. The new AirTag looks like the old one, Gurman hints, but Apple has a few twists up its sleeve.

Revamped AirTag 2024: What to Expect

Gurman’s got the lowdown on the new AirTag, and it sounds like Apple’s working hard to tighten the screws. This model’s set to come with a longer range, a tougher wireless chip, and some reinforced privacy features. Apple’s got its eye on the stalkers this time, too. They’re making it a lot harder to tamper with—a move that shows they’ve heard the complaints. Word is, removing the speaker, a trick some used to keep the AirTag quiet, won’t be so easy on this version.

Since the AirTag hit the shelves in 2021, it’s been shadowed by stories of misuse, the kind that comes back in the form of lawsuits. Apple knows its next move better be good; a tamper-proof upgrade could mean the difference between convenience and crossing a line.

Apple’s 2024 Product Roadmap: What Lies Ahead

The new AirTag is just the tip of Apple’s iceberg for next year. Rumor has it they’re lining up a smart home display, fresh software, and a handful of revamped gadgets: the iPad Air, entry-level iPad, MacBook Air, Mac Pro, Mac Studio, even the iPhone SE. And for 2025? The classics—iPhone, Apple Watch, MacBook Pro—all waiting in the wings.

Conclusion

Apple’s playing its cards like a pro, letting just enough slip to keep everyone leaning in. The new AirTag is more than just a gadget—it’s Apple taking aim at its own flaws, with better privacy, a few new tricks, and safety upgrades in spades. But the AirTag’s only part of the story. Apple’s got big plans: smart home moves, refreshes across its famous lineup, the kind of upgrades that keep folks hooked. Whether it all delivers or falls short, only time will tell, but one thing’s certain—Apple knows how to hold an audience.

FAQs

1. What is Apple planning with the new AirTag?

Apple is preparing to release a revamped AirTag, four years after its initial launch. Known internally as B589, this version promises improved range, a more robust wireless chip, and enhanced privacy features. These changes aim to address the product’s history of misuse, including stalking concerns.

2. How will the updated AirTag address privacy issues?

The new AirTag includes anti-tampering measures, such as preventing users from easily disabling the speaker—a tactic previously used for illicit tracking. These updates demonstrate Apple’s commitment to safeguarding its users and responding to criticism.

3. What other devices can we expect from Apple next year?

Apple’s roadmap for next year features a variety of new releases, including:

• A smart home display
• Updated iPads, including the iPad Air and entry-level models
• New iterations of the MacBook Air, Mac Pro, and Mac Studio
• An updated iPhone SE

4. What’s Apple’s broader vision for these new products?

Beyond addressing specific issues like privacy in the AirTag, Apple seeks to reinforce its dominance in consumer technology through a diverse array of product updates. These include seamless smart home integration, cutting-edge hardware, and compelling software ecosystems.

5. Will Apple’s plans live up to expectations?

As always, the outcome rests on execution. Apple’s ability to deliver on its promises will determine whether these updates reinforce its reputation for innovation or simply extend the lifecycle of its existing product lines.