iFixIt Disassembles New AirTag, Reveals Easily Disableable Louder Speaker
iFixit recently completed a teardown of Apple’s newly released AirTag. This review provides insights into the device’s internal structure and some functionalities, revealing both improvements and areas of concern.
Key Findings from the AirTag Teardown
The teardown uncovered several notable features, including:
- Increased speaker volume for alerts.
- Apple’s U2 Ultra Wideband chip for enhanced Precision Finding.
- Unique Bluetooth identifiers and cross-platform alerts to prevent unwanted tracking.
Speaker Accessibility and Functions
Despite expectations for a more tamper-resistant design, iFixit found that the speaker remains relatively easy to disable. The teardown reveals that individuals with basic soldering skills can disconnect the speaker without damaging the device. Two fine wires connect the speaker coil to the printed circuit board (PCB), making it accessible for modification.
Technical Enhancements
The updated AirTag includes a system-on-a-chip (SoC) that enhances Bluetooth and NFC capabilities. Apple’s U2 Ultra Wideband chip improves tracking accuracy when paired with an iPhone 15 or later.
Conclusion
While Apple’s AirTag introduces several new features aimed at improving user experience and security, the ease with which the speaker can be disabled may raise concerns regarding its overall security. As always, iFixit’s comprehensive teardown provides valuable insights into the product’s engineering and functionality.
