Apple's Next-Gen HomePod Mini and AirTag Upgrades Leaked in Internal Code
After a quiet 2025, Apple is gearing up for modest but highly anticipated updates to two of its accessories. Evidence found in a leaked internal build of iOS 26, as seen by Macworld, reveals an unreleased HomePod mini and unannounced AirTag features, hinting at a second generation on the horizon.
Upgrading the HomePod Mini
The HomePod mini, introduced in 2020 as a cheaper alternative to the larger HomePod, has been updated with new colors but still runs on the aging S5 chip. According to Apple's internal code, a new HomePod mini, identified by the codename B252, is in the works. This new version is expected to be powered by the S10 chip, found in the latest Apple Watch models, offering faster performance and better wireless reliability without major functional changes.
Despite persistent rumors, the new HomePod mini is unlikely to support Apple Intelligence features, which will likely arrive in Apple's upcoming smart home hub device. The rumored 'HomePad' device is believed to include an A18 chip, capable of running on-device AI features.
AirTag's Enhanced Location Tracking
The leaked code also hints at improved AirTag features. Apple's item tracker is set to gain an enhanced pairing process, improved Precision Finding, and detailed battery level reporting. Additionally, a feature called 'Improved Moving' will allow users to find the precise location of an AirTag even when it's in motion, addressing one of the current AirTag's limitations. Another feature focuses on improving accurate tracking in crowded places.
While some new features may arrive via a software update, Apple has long been rumored to introduce a new generation of AirTag with an upgraded ultra-wideband chip, enhancing the Precision Finding feature. These AirTag features, tagged internally as '2025AirTag,' are targeted for iOS 26 and are expected to be announced in the first half of the year.
With both the refreshed HomePod mini and next-gen AirTag in the pipeline, 2026 is shaping up to be a busy year for Apple's accessories.
