How to Reset an AirTag

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Resetting an AirTag can help fix connection problems, prepare it for a new owner, or restore it after troubleshooting. The process is quick and can be done without special tools. Follow the steps below to properly reset your AirTag and make it ready for setup again.

When to Reset an AirTag

You should reset your AirTag if:

  • It’s not connecting or pairing with your iPhone.
  • It’s still linked to a previous Apple ID.
  • You want to give it to someone else.
  • It’s not showing up in the Find My app even after replacing the battery.

Before You Reset

Remove It From Your Apple ID

If your AirTag is still linked to your account, it must be unpaired first.

  1. Open the Find My app.
  2. Tap the Items tab.
  3. Select the AirTag you want to remove.
  4. Scroll down and choose Remove Item.
  5. Confirm when prompted.

This releases the AirTag from your Apple ID and enables it to be linked to another device.

How to Reset the AirTag
  1. Hold the AirTag with the metal battery cover facing you.
  2. Press down on the cover and rotate counterclockwise to remove it.
  3. Take out the battery.
  4. Reinsert the battery and press it until you hear a sound – this means the AirTag has power.
  5. When the sound finishes, remove the battery again.
  6. Repeat the process (insert battery, press until you hear a sound, then remove it) four more times.
    • You should hear a total of five sounds.
  7. After the fifth sound, reinsert the battery and replace the cover, twisting clockwise until it locks.

Your AirTag is now reset and ready to be paired with a new device.

Pair the AirTag Again
  1. Bring the AirTag close to your iPhone.
  2. Wait for the setup animation to appear on your screen.
  3. Tap Connect and follow the on-screen instructions.
  4. Assign a name and item type (keys, wallet, bag, etc.).

After setup, you can view the AirTag in the Find My → Items tab.

Common Issues After Reset

AirTag Still Linked to Another Apple ID

If the AirTag shows “connected to another Apple ID,” it wasn’t removed properly before resetting. Contact the previous owner and ask them to remove it from their account in the Find My app.

No Sound During Reset

If you don’t hear the chime when pressing the battery:

  • Make sure the positive side (+) of the battery faces up.
  • Try a different CR2032 battery without a bitter coating.
  • Clean the battery contacts inside the AirTag.

Summary
  • Resetting an AirTag requires five battery insertions until you hear five chimes.
  • Always remove the AirTag from your Apple ID before giving it to someone else.
  • After resetting, the AirTag can be paired as new through the Find My app on an iPhone or iPad.

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