Sketchy photo claims to show 'AirTags' keyring accessory

A photo circulating online suggests Apple is preparing a leather keyring accessory for an as-yet-unannounced "AirTags" tracking device.

Spotted by known Apple product leaker "choco_bit," the supposed "AirTags" accessory sports a simple leather design with clasp that attaches to a metal keyring, onto which is emblazoned "Designed by Apple in California, Assembled in China."

"Potentially AirTag carrying accessory in Saddle Brown. Looks a lot like this previously reported patent, but take it with a bit of salt though since something similar is easily reproducible in China," the leaker said in a tweet Monday.

The design is nearly identical to illustrations outlined in an "AirTags" patent filings from October. In the documents, Apple details a circular tracker device with a lip or joint between a plastic top and metal base. The filing envisions a variety of compliant accessories capable of interfacing with the channel, including a slip-in keyring holster.

Rumors of Apple's wireless locating device have circulated for months. Code relating to the operation and handling of Tile-like location tracking devices was discovered in a private iOS build more than a year ago, prior to the launch of iOS 13. More recently, leaker L0vetodream in October said "AirTags" could come in two sizes.

The device itself is said to boast Ultra Wideband technology for highly accurate positioning data. Previous reports, backed up by a detailed patent application, outline a device capable of intelligently broadcasting its location to compatible handsets like iPhone, which can locate the tracker using a number of techniques including augmented reality.

While rumblings surrounding "AirTags" have largely given way to hardware leaks related to Apple's cyclical iPhone refresh, the tracking solution could launch at a special event on Tuesday where Apple is expected to unveil its first Apple silicon Macs.