Yes, you can replace the battery in an AirTag. Apple designed AirTags with a user-replaceable battery to make maintenance simple and cost-effective. The battery typically lasts about one year, depending on usage. Below are all the details on how to replace it properly and what to do if the AirTag doesn’t work afterward.
AirTag Battery Type
AirTags use a CR2032 lithium coin cell battery – the same type found in many watches, remotes, and small electronic devices. These batteries are widely available at electronics stores, supermarkets, and online retailers.
Recommended Specifications
- Type: CR2032
- Voltage: 3V lithium coin cell
- Size: 20 mm diameter, 3.2 mm thick
Avoid Batteries With Bitter Coating
Some manufacturers, such as Duracell, produce CR2032 batteries with a bitter coating to prevent ingestion by children. These coatings can interfere with the AirTag’s battery contacts, causing the AirTag to not power on. Always use an uncoated standard CR2032 battery for best results.
How to Replace the AirTag Battery
- Hold the AirTag with the stainless steel side facing up.
- Press down on the metal cover with your thumbs.
- Rotate the cover counterclockwise until it stops turning.
- Remove the cover and the old battery.
- Insert a new CR2032 battery with the positive side (+) facing upward.
- You should hear a sound indicating the new battery is properly seated and the AirTag has power.
- Replace the cover by aligning the three tabs on the cover with the slots on the AirTag.
- Press down and turn the cover clockwise until it locks in place.
How to Check the Battery Level
To check your AirTag’s battery status:
- Open the Find My app.
- Tap the Items tab.
- Select your AirTag.
If the battery is low, a low battery icon will appear under the AirTag’s name. Replace the battery as soon as you see this warning to maintain consistent tracking performance.
What to Do if the AirTag Doesn’t Work After Replacing the Battery
Check Battery Orientation
Ensure the positive side (+) of the battery faces up toward the cover. Incorrect placement prevents the AirTag from powering on.
Listen for the Power Sound
When inserting the battery, you should hear a chime. If there’s no sound:
- Remove the battery and reinsert it.
- Check that the battery contacts are clean and not obstructed.
- Try a different CR2032 battery brand without coating.
Restart the AirTag
- Remove the battery for 10 seconds.
- Reinsert it and wait for the chime.
- Replace the cover securely.
If it still doesn’t respond, reset the AirTag.
How to Reset the AirTag After Battery Replacement
Resetting ensures it can pair again correctly with your device:
- Remove the cover and battery.
- Reinsert the battery until you hear a chime.
- Repeat this process five times (you should hear five chimes total).
- After the fifth chime, reattach the cover and twist clockwise to lock it.
The AirTag is now ready to be paired as new.
Battery Life Expectations
A new CR2032 battery typically lasts about one year with normal use, depending on how often you use sound alerts or Precision Finding.
You’ll receive a low battery alert in the Find My app when it’s time to replace it.
Environmental and Disposal Tips
Always dispose of used coin cell batteries properly:
- Drop them off at a battery recycling point or electronics store that accepts lithium batteries.
- Do not throw them in household waste, as they contain materials that require special disposal.
Summary
- AirTags use replaceable CR2032 coin cell batteries.
- Avoid batteries with bitter coatings.
- Replace the battery when prompted by the Find My app.
- Follow Apple’s simple twist-to-open method for installation.
- Expect approximately one year of battery life per replacement.