AirTag Loop Gone from Apple Store: AirTag 2 Coming Soon?

The Curious Case of the Disappearing AirTag Loop: A Telltale Sign of AirTag 2? In a move that has Apple watchers buzzing, the original AirTag Loop has quietly vanished from Apple's official online store and is reportedly unavailable in many of its physical retail locations . This development, first highlighted by Filipe Espósito of MacWorld, has ignited speculation that Apple might be clearing the decks for a next-generation AirTag . While Apple often makes product adjustments, the discontinuation of a first-party accessory for a relatively current product is a significant event, often heralding a refresh or a shift in product strategy. The AirTag, Apple's small, coin-shaped tracking device, was launched in 2021 to help users keep tabs on their belongings through the expansive Find My network . Alongside the tracker itself, Apple introduced a few proprietary accessories, including the polyurethane AirTag Loop, designed to easily attach the hole-less AirTag to items like bags, luggage, or keys. Now, it appears this particular accessory has reached the end of its official sales life. Vanished from Virtual and Physical Shelves According to reports, Apple Stores haven't received new shipments of the AirTag Loop for several months, and the product has also been removed from the company's internal catalog, suggesting a permanent discontinuation rather than a temporary supply shortage . While Apple itself hasn't made a formal announcement, the evidence points to a deliberate phasing out. Interestingly, for those still keen on acquiring an original AirTag Loop, they can still be found, often at discounted prices, through third-party retailers like Amazon, where they are listed for as low as $13 . This is a common practice for products being cleared from inventory. However, it's noteworthy that not all AirTag accessories have met the same fate. The more premium FineWoven Key Ring, priced at $35, remains available for purchase directly from Apple's website . This selective discontinuation further fuels the theory that this isn't merely about an unpopular accessory but part of a larger plan. Echoes of Past Product Transitions Apple has a history of subtly altering its product lineup in anticipation of new releases. A pertinent example cited by observers is the discontinuation of the iPhone 14 Pro leather cases right before the iPhone 15 launch . This move preceded the introduction of Apple's new FineWoven material for iPhone 15 cases, indicating a strategic shift in accessory offerings to align with upcoming product changes. The current situation with the AirTag Loop mirrors this pattern, strongly suggesting that Apple is preparing for something new in the AirTag family. The timing also aligns with whispers in the tech community. Rumors have been circulating that a second-generation AirTag is in development and could potentially launch later this year . The quiet removal of a key first-generation accessory like the Loop is seen by many as a significant hint that these rumors are about to materialize . Why Discontinue the Loop? Paving the Way for AirTag 2 While one might speculate that the AirTag Loop was discontinued due to low popularity, the broader context points towards a more strategic motive . If Apple is indeed gearing up to release AirTag 2, it would make sense to streamline its current accessory offerings. A new AirTag might come with a slightly different form factor or new attachment mechanisms, potentially rendering the original Loop obsolete or less ideal. Alternatively, Apple might be planning a refreshed line of accessories, perhaps entirely in materials like FineWoven, to accompany the new tracker. Sources familiar with Apple's retail operations have indicated that the lack of new AirTag Loop supplies for months is a clear sign of its phasing out . This isn't typically how Apple handles temporary stock issues, where the company usually provides clarity on availability . What Could an AirTag 2 Offer? The discontinuation of the Loop naturally leads to questions about what an AirTag 2 might entail. While the provided research doesn't detail specific rumored features for the AirTag 2, it does state that such rumors exist . Generally, users might hope for improvements such as enhanced precision finding capabilities, possibly a louder speaker for easier location, better battery life (though the current CR2032 battery is user-replaceable and lasts about a year ), or even new form factors. A new generation could also bring refreshed accessories designed specifically for it . The original AirTag, despite its utility, has not seen any major updates since its 2021 debut, nor have its first-party accessories . A refresh would be timely, especially as the item tracker market continues to evolve. Implications for Consumers For current AirTag owners who use or prefer the polyurethane Loop, the options for purchasing new ones directly from Apple are now gone. They will have to turn to third-party retailers while stocks last or consider alternative attachment solutions. The FineWoven Key Ring remains an official, albeit more expensive, option . For those considering purchasing AirTags, this development might give them pause. If an AirTag 2 is indeed on the horizon, waiting a bit longer could provide access to a newer model with potentially improved features and a new suite of accessories. A Strong Signal from Cupertino The quiet removal of the AirTag Loop from Apple's official sales channels, as spotted by MacWorld's Filipe Espósito, is more than just a minor inventory adjustment. It's a classic Apple move, often signaling an impending product update or a strategic shift. Given the context of Apple's past actions and the persistent rumors of an AirTag 2, it's highly probable that the company is preparing the ground for the next iteration of its popular item tracker . While Apple remains characteristically silent, the disappearance of the Loop speaks volumes, hinting that an AirTag refresh might be just around the corner.

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