New Apple HomePod mini and AirTag 2 rumours reveal major upgrades ahead of time
Rumours of Apple launching a new AirTag and HomePod mini last month came to nothing. As a consequence, the existing HomePod Mini and AirTag remain on shelves both at Apple and third-party retailers. However, MacWorld claims to have obtained new insights into both product lines before their inevitable refreshes.
On the one hand, the next HomePod mini is said to contain one fundamental change that should spawn multiple upgrades. Allegedly, Apple will replace the Apple S5 chipset powering existing HomePod mini units with the Apple S10 found in the Watch Series 11 (curr. $329 on Amazon). As a result, the next HomePod mini should also come with a memory upgrade to 2 GB of RAM, as well as WiFi 4 connectivity.
On the other hand, upwards of five changes are anticipated for the so-called AirTag 2. According to MacWorld, Apple has managed to improve Precision Finding, that can be used to find a missing or errant AirTag using ultra-wideband (UWB) technology. Moreover, the website reports that Apple has refined battery estimates to the point where it will reintroduce the feature with the AirTag 2; initially, the feature was removed from the original AirTag because of its inaccuracy.
Also, the AirTag 2 is believed to have simplified the pairing and setup process with an iPhone. Apparently, the next AirTag should suffer from less interference than its predecessor, particularly in busy environments. Finally, Apple is expected to add 'Improved Moving' to maximise location accuracy when an AirTag is moving in a vehicle or on someone's person. Currently, Apple is believed to be working toward releasing both devices during the first half of 2026.
Source(s)
