Table of Contents
Highlight
- The new HomePod Mini may feature Apple’s faster S10 chip for smoother performance.
- The upcoming AirTag update introduces better accuracy, faster pairing, and improved Precision Finding.
- Both iOS 26-linked devices are expected to launch in early 2026, offering meaningful upgrades for Apple users.
According to Macworld, sources indicate that Apple has created new models of both the HomePod Mini and the AirTag. This information comes from some early pre-production code related to iOS 26 that has reportedly surfaced. The current models have been on the market for a few years without major changes, so this leak has created some interest among Apple users.
A Faster Chip May Be On The Way With New HomePod Mini
The lack of any further hardware updates for the original HomePod Mini since it was launched as part of the 2020 product line has been a major advantage for those who are still using them today.
What the leak shows
According to reports by Macworld, the leaked iOS 26 code mentions a new HomePod mini under the name B252. The most important change noted in the leak is a new S10 chip. Right now, the HomePod mini uses the older S5 chip.
A faster chip means:
- quicker responses
- fewer delays
- smoother use when giving commands
It has not added any big new features, but it makes the device run better and keeps it updated.
No major AI features expected
The new HomePod mini is not expected to get Apple’s latest AI features. Those tools need a more powerful A-series chip, which Apple may add only in a bigger smart home device in the future. So the mini will stay a simple, fast, easy-to-use smart speaker.
New AirTag May Fix Tracking Problems
When Apple first released the AirTag in 2021, it was one of the top-selling item trackers worldwide. However, due to the large number of people in one area and how quickly an object moves, many AirTag users experience accuracy problems.
What could improve
The leaked code reveals many new features for the next AirTag. These include:
- better location accuracy
- improved “Precision Finding.”
- clearer battery level details
- faster pairing
- stronger tracking in crowded areas
There is also mention of an upgrade called “Improved Moving”. Right now, if a bag or item is moving, the AirTag sometimes doesn’t provide accurate updates. The new model seems to be built to fix this.
A new chip may come
Additionally, there are indications that Apple may also have a plan to install a new type of Ultra Wideband chip within the AirTag. This new Ultra Wideband chip will allow the AirTag to find an object quickly and more accurately than before.
This innovation will offer an advantage to individuals who travel and carry important items like purses, backpacks, and keys.
When Will These New Devices Launch?
The internal code ties both products to iOS 26. As the original author indicated before, Apple could have provided the devices with features and specifications down the road in 2025, but they have decided to move that to 2026. Apple has a track record of presenting and making available various tech products, so it seems reasonable to expect that this terminology will be relevant for the two products as well; therefore, they’re likely going to have a simultaneous release window.
Assuming this proves true, I would anticipate seeing both devices released sometime between January 2026 – June 2026, which falls in line with when most of Apple’s product releases occur. Hence, I would suggest that Apple may offer official announcements for both devices before their release to consumers.
Why These Updates Are Important
The HomePod mini update is mainly an internal upgrade. It will help the speaker run better and stay in Apple’s lineup for a few more years. Users who want a small Apple speaker with improved speed will find this useful.
The AirTag update is more meaningful. Better tracking, clearer updates, and more accuracy are things users have been asking for since the first model launched. If the new AirTag solves these problems, it will make everyday tracking easier.
Final Words
According to reports by Macworld, Apple is already testing the new HomePod mini and AirTag through early iOS 26 code.
Apple has not announced any products being released in 2026; however, with the leaks regarding the latest chip designed for the HomePod mini and the addition of GPS capabilities for the AirTag, it is highly likely Apple will release various new products in 2026.
Historically, Apple has released new devices on average every couple of years; therefore, if Apple maintains this average, then customers should expect to see brand-new versions of both devices during the first half of 2026.
