Yes, AirTags can run out of battery. Each AirTag is powered by a replaceable CR2032 coin cell battery, which typically lasts about one year under normal use. When the battery gets low, your iPhone will notify you so you can replace it before the AirTag stops working completely.
How Long AirTag Batteries Last
Typical Battery Life
- Average lifespan: Around 12 months.
- Usage factors: Frequent use of sound alerts, Precision Finding, and Lost Mode can reduce battery life slightly.
AirTags are designed to be energy efficient, using Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) technology and only transmitting signals periodically.
How to Check AirTag Battery Level
You can monitor your AirTag’s battery status directly in the Find My app.
Steps:
- Open the Find My app on your iPhone or iPad.
- Tap the Items tab.
- Select your AirTag.
- Look under the AirTag’s name – if the battery is low, you’ll see a low battery warning icon.
If no alert appears, your AirTag’s battery is still in good condition.
What Happens When the AirTag Battery Is Low
When your AirTag’s battery level becomes low:
- You’ll receive a notification on your iPhone saying “AirTag Battery Is Low.”
- The AirTag may start to lose connection intermittently.
- It may fail to play sounds or update its location reliably.
If the battery dies completely, the AirTag will no longer appear in the Find My app until a new battery is installed.
How to Replace the AirTag Battery
Replacing the battery takes less than a minute.
Steps:
- Hold the AirTag with the metal side facing up.
- Press down on the metal cover and turn it counterclockwise until it stops.
- Remove the cover and take out the old battery.
- Insert a new CR2032 coin cell battery with the positive side (+) facing up.
- Press until you hear a chime, confirming the AirTag has power.
- Replace the cover and turn it clockwise until it locks.
Your AirTag will automatically reconnect to your iPhone after replacement.
Recommended Battery Type
- Battery model: CR2032 lithium coin cell
- Voltage: 3V
- Note: Avoid CR2032 batteries with a bitter coating (such as some Duracell models). These coatings can prevent contact with the AirTag’s terminals, stopping it from turning on.
Signs Your AirTag Battery Has Died
- The AirTag no longer appears in the Find My app.
- It doesn’t make a sound when you try to locate it.
- It fails to reconnect even when near your iPhone.
If all of these occur, the battery is most likely dead and needs replacement.
How to Extend AirTag Battery Life
- Keep sound alerts to a minimum.
- Avoid exposing the AirTag to extreme temperatures, as heat or cold can reduce battery performance.
- Replace the battery promptly after receiving a low-battery alert to maintain consistent operation.
Summary
- AirTags do run out of battery, usually after about one year.
- They use a replaceable CR2032 coin cell battery.
- You’ll receive a low battery notification before it dies.
- Replace the battery by opening the back cover and inserting a new one.
- Avoid coated batteries for best performance and contact reliability.