Precision Finding on the Apple Watch requires AirTag 2

Precision Finding is one of the most important features of the AirTag. It helps you precisely locate lost items by displaying distance and direction. Apple has expanded this feature with newer Apple Watch models. However, there is a clear limitation: Precision Finding on the Apple Watch does not work with the original AirTag.

A recent Apple support document and our own testing confirm that precision finding support on the Apple Watch is tied to the AirTag's hardware. Although the Apple Watch Series 9 and later, as well as the Apple Watch Ultra 2 and later, are technically capable, only the second-generation AirTag is supported. The original AirTag from 2021 is excluded.

What makes precision finding possible with the AirTag

Precision Finding displays the exact location of an object to which an AirTag is attached. A directional arrow and the precise distance are shown. This feature is familiar from compatible iPhones and is now also available on compatible Apple Watch models.

Previously, the Apple Watch's precision finding function could be used to locate an iPhone 15 or newer. However, a comparable feature for finding an AirTag was not yet available on the watch.

Limitation of the original AirTag

Despite having hardware support on the Apple Watch, precision finding does not work with the first-generation AirTag. Released in 2021, the AirTag does not support the newer Ultra Wideband features in the way required for use with the Apple Watch.

Tests clearly show that Precision Finding cannot be activated on the Apple Watch with the original AirTag. This limitation applies exclusively to the Apple Watch. The original AirTag can still be easily found using Precision Finding on an iPhone 11 or later.

Support through the second generation AirTag

With the AirTag 2, Apple has created the conditions for precision finding on the Apple Watch. When paired with a compatible watch, the location of an AirTag can now be determined directly from the wrist.

This requires that at least watchOS 26.2.1 is installed on the Apple Watch. The Apple Watch Series 9 or later and the Apple Watch Ultra 2 or later are supported.

Setting up precision finding on the Apple Watch

According to Apple, setup is done via the Apple Watch Control Center:

• Open control center
• Scroll down and select "Edit".
• Tap "Add"
• Scroll to "Find Items".
• „Select "Find Items" and then "Find AirTag".
• Select an object using "Choose"
• Confirm with "Done" and complete the process.

Only after this setup will the function be permanently available in the control center.

Using precision finding in everyday life

The search for a second-generation AirTag is also conducted via the control center:

• Open control center
• Select “Find AirTag”
• Follow the instructions on the screen and move around until a connection is established.
• Pay attention to the displayed distance and direction.
• As soon as the Apple Watch is in close proximity to the AirTag, the screen turns green.

Greater range for the AirTag 2

Another difference between the original AirTag and the AirTag 2 is the precision finding range. The AirTag 2 works from a distance up to 1.5 times greater than the original model.

This extended range requires current hardware. You'll need either an iPhone 15 or newer, or a compatible Apple Watch (Series 9 or newer, or Ultra 2 or newer). The iPhone 16e is explicitly excluded!

• AirTag 2: Meaningful improvements without a complete overhaul
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Why precision finding on the Apple Watch only works with AirTag 2

Precision Finding on the Apple Watch is subject to specific technical requirements. While the feature works reliably with the second-generation AirTag, the original AirTag is not compatible with the Apple Watch. This limitation does not apply when using the iPhone. Therefore, anyone wanting to use AirTag search directly on their Apple Watch absolutely needs an AirTag 2, a current Apple Watch model, and a compatible watchOS version. The best products for you: Our Amazon storefront offers a wide selection of accessories, including those for HomeKit. (Image: Apple)

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Frequently asked questions about precision finding with AirTag on the Apple Watch

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