Tag: Ultra Wideband

  • Apple Set to Launch AirTag 2 This Summer with Major Upgrades

    Apple Set to Launch AirTag 2 This Summer with Major Upgrades

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple’s AirTag tracker, launched in April 2021, may get a refresh this summer.
    2. Rumors suggest the new AirTag (or AirTag 2) could be released in May or June 2024.
    3. Anticipated features include an Ultra Wideband chip for improved signal range (up to 60 meters).
    4. The new AirTag is expected to have better compatibility with the Apple Vision Pro and a louder, more secure speaker.
    5. Caution is advised regarding rumors, as the official announcement from Apple is still pending.

    Apple’s AirTag tracker has become a very popular way to keep track of small things, like keys, wallets, and even iPhones. However, this small tracker is starting to feel a bit old; it was launched nearly four years ago in April 2021. A new rumor suggests that Apple may refresh the AirTag this summer.

    Rumored Release Dates

    The speculation, coming from a leaker known as Kosutami, indicates that Apple might introduce the new AirTag (or AirTag 2) in May or June of this year, just in time for the summer season. This coincides with a statement from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, who mentioned that a new AirTag would be expected around the middle of 2025.

    Anticipated Features

    Current rumors suggest significant upgrades for the AirTag 2, such as the Ultra Wideband chip found in the iPhone 15 and 16 series and the Apple Watch Ultra 2. This chip is said to enhance the signal range by as much as 3 times, which would be around 60 meters (about 200 feet).

    The AirTag 2 is also rumored to have better compatibility with the Apple Vision Pro (whatever that means), according to well-known Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. Some believe that the new AirTag will feature an upgraded speaker that will be not only louder but also more challenging to remove, making it harder for potential wrongdoers to modify an AirTag to track someone.

    Caution on Rumors

    As always, it’s wise to take these rumors lightly. The AirTag is certainly due for a refresh, but we will have to wait to see when Apple officially plans to unveil the AirTag 2.

    You can currently grab a 4-pack of AirTags on Amazon for $67.99 as of the latest update (usually priced at $99.99).

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  • Future Galaxy Buds with UWB: Enhanced Location Tracking & Audio

    Future Galaxy Buds with UWB: Enhanced Location Tracking & Audio

    Samsung is looking into adding UWB (Ultra-Wideband) technology to its earbuds, as shown by a patent application it filed in November 2023.

    What is UWB?

    Ultra-Wideband is a short-range wireless communication technology that functions at very high frequencies, ranging from 3.1 to 10.6 GHz. This tech allows for accurate location tracking and fast data transfer over brief distances while using minimal power. Unlike Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, UWB can pinpoint objects with centimeter-level accuracy.

    Benefits for Future Galaxy Buds

    The Galaxy S and Z series smartphones already feature this technology, which could improve the location tracking of the upcoming Galaxy Buds when paired with those devices.

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    Enhanced Audio Quality

    UWB offers greater bandwidth than Bluetooth, potentially leading to better audio transmission. Sammobile thinks this could result in higher-fidelity sound in the Galaxy Buds. The patent mentions a new way of connecting the earbuds to the phone using both Bluetooth and UWB. However, the phone or any device must also support UWB, which could make it a premium feature initially available to a limited audience.

    Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro

    What makes this development intriguing is the chance that other brands might adopt this technology and create a seamless connection within their ecosystems. Eventually, most devices from different brands could include UWB, allowing them to work together much like Bluetooth does today.

    Patent Application Insights

    The patent abstract states: “A method for controlling a set of wireless earphones, including: establishing a first Bluetooth (BT) connection between a first earphone of the set of wireless earphones and a source apparatus; based on the source apparatus supporting Ultra Wide Band (UWB) connections: establishing a first UWB connection between the first earphone and the source apparatus, and a second UWB connection between a second earphone of the set of wireless earphones and the source apparatus; and receiving, by the first earphone, audio data from the source apparatus using the first UWB connection, wherein the audio data is received from the source apparatus by the second earphone using the second UWB connection.”

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    Future Galaxy Buds with UWB: Enhanced Location Tracking & Audio

     

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  • Moto Tag: Android’s Answer to Apple AirTags with UWB & Google Find My

    Moto Tag: Android’s Answer to Apple AirTags with UWB & Google Find My

    Motorola has introduced a new smart tracker designed to compete with Apple AirTags for Android users. Named the Moto Tag, this device features Ultra Wideband (UWB) technology and integrates with Google's network, making it easier to locate tagged items.

    Moto Tag: Key Features

    Motorola's Moto Tag boasts enhanced precision due to its support for UWB tech, which can be leveraged by smartphones that also include this technology, such as the Edge 50 Ultra. Although integration with the Find My Device app isn't available at launch, it is expected in a forthcoming update. The Moto Tag features a circular design with a multifunction button, similar to the Apple AirTag.

    This button can ring a paired smartphone and even take photos remotely. Privacy is a major focus for Motorola, as the Moto Tag uses end-to-end encryption on the Google Find My Device network, ensuring that your location data stays private. For added security, the device can alert users about any unknown tracker and offers manual scanning options. The Moto Tag is also durable, with an IP67 rating for water and dust resistance.

    Easy Setup and Long Battery Life

    Setting up the Moto Tag is straightforward thanks to Google Fast Pair, and the accompanying Moto Tag app provides features such as battery monitoring and alert volume control. Motorola claims the device has a battery life of up to a year, and the CR2032 battery cell is replaceable. The Moto Tag will be available in select markets at a price of 29 US Dollars for one, or 99 US Dollars for a pack of four. It comes in two color options: Blue and Green. The smart tracker is scheduled for release on August 2, 2024.

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