Yes, you can replace an AirTag battery yourself in about 30 seconds

AirTag batteries are replaceable, and Apple designed the process to be straightforward enough that you do not need tools or technical skill. The battery is a standard CR2032 coin cell, the same type used in watches, calculators, and car key fobs. You can buy replacements at any pharmacy, grocery store, or online retailer for between $3 and $8 for a pack of several.

The entire replacement takes less than a minute. You twist the stainless steel back of the AirTag counterclockwise until it comes loose, lift out the old battery, drop in the new one with the positive side facing up, and twist the back on again. The AirTag will chime to confirm the new battery is working.

Key Takeaways

  • AirTag batteries are CR2032 coin cells that you can buy at pharmacies, grocery stores, or online for a few dollars.
  • Twist the stainless steel back counterclockwise to open the AirTag; no tools are needed.
  • Insert the new battery with the positive (+) side facing up, then twist the back clockwise until snug.
  • A chime from the AirTag confirms the new battery is installed correctly and the device is working.
  • Most CR2032 batteries last about one year in an AirTag under normal use.

What type of battery does an AirTag use

AirTags use a CR2032 lithium coin cell battery. This is one of the most common battery sizes in the world, which means you have many options for where to buy replacements. You will find them in the pharmacy section of most drugstores, in the battery aisle at hardware stores, at supermarkets, and on any online retailer that sells batteries.

When you buy a replacement, look for the label "CR2032" on the package. Some sellers also list it as a "2032 battery" or "3V coin cell." Avoid buying the cheapest option if you can; mid-range brands like Energizer, Duracell, or Panasonic tend to last longer in AirTags than no-name bulk packs. A pack of two or four batteries costs between $3 and $8.

Step-by-step: how to open and replace the battery

Start with the AirTag in one hand and the new battery in the other. Hold the AirTag so the stainless steel back faces you. Place your thumb on the steel back and your fingers on the white plastic front, then twist the back counterclockwise. It will loosen after a quarter turn and come free after a half turn.

Lift the steel back away from the plastic body. Inside, you will see the old battery sitting in a shallow cup. Lift or pry out the old battery with your fingernail or the edge of a coin. Drop the new CR2032 battery into the cup with the positive (+) side facing up toward you. This is the flat, shiny side with the plus symbol printed on it.

Align the steel back with the plastic body and twist it clockwise. Tighten it until it is snug but do not force it. You should hear or feel a soft click as it seats. Within a few seconds, the AirTag will play a chime and flash a light to confirm the battery is installed and the device is working. If you do not hear a chime, open it again and check that the positive side of the battery is facing up.

How long does a CR2032 battery last in an AirTag

A fresh CR2032 battery typically lasts about one year in an AirTag under normal use. The actual lifespan depends on how often you trigger the AirTag's speaker, how frequently the Find My network locates it, and the brand of battery you use. If you use the AirTag mostly to track a stationary item like a set of keys that stays in one place, the battery may last longer. If you are constantly playing the sound or the AirTag is moving through areas with many Apple devices, it will drain faster.

Apple will send you a notification through the Find My app when the battery is running low, usually a few weeks before it dies completely. This gives you time to buy a replacement battery before the AirTag stops working. You do not need to replace the battery on any particular schedule; wait until the app tells you the battery is low.

Common mistakes to avoid when replacing the battery

The most common error is installing the battery upside down. The positive (+) side must face up toward you when you look into the open AirTag. If you install it with the negative side up, the AirTag will not work and will not chime. If this happens, straightforward open it again and flip the battery over.

Another mistake is twisting the back too hard when closing it. The back should be snug but not tight. Over-tightening can crack the plastic body or strip the threads. Twist until you feel resistance, then stop. If the back is already seated and you are still turning, you are explore too much force.

Do not use a battery that is visibly corroded, dented, or leaking. These batteries may not work or could damage the AirTag. If you open an old AirTag and the battery looks damaged, throw it away and use a fresh one from a new pack.

Where to buy replacement CR2032 batteries

You can buy CR2032 batteries almost anywhere. Pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens stock them in the pharmacy or health section. Grocery stores carry them in the battery aisle or near the checkout. Hardware stores like Home Depot and Lowe's have them in the electrical section. Walmart and Target sell them in the electronics or pharmacy department.

Online, Amazon, Best Buy, and most battery retailers ship CR2032 packs within a few days. Buying a pack of four or eight batteries at once is usually cheaper per battery than buying a single battery, and you will have spares on hand for other devices like watches or car key fobs that also use CR2032 cells.

What to do with the old battery

Do not throw old batteries in the trash. Lithium coin cells contain materials that can harm the environment if they end up in a landfill. Instead, take them to a battery recycling program. Most retailers that sell batteries also accept old ones for recycling at no charge. CVS, Walgreens, Best Buy, and Home Depot all have battery recycling bins near the checkout or customer service desk.

If you do not have a retailer nearby, search for "battery recycling near me" or visit Earth911.com to find a drop-off location in your area. Some municipalities also have hazardous waste collection days where you can bring old batteries. The process is free and takes just a minute.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use any CR2032 battery in an AirTag?

Yes, any CR2032 battery will work in an AirTag. Brand does not matter for compatibility, but battery life varies slightly by manufacturer. Energizer, Duracell, and Panasonic tend to last longer than generic or off-brand batteries, so they are worth the small extra cost if you plan to keep the AirTag for more than a year.

What if my AirTag does not chime after I replace the battery?

The most likely cause is that the battery is installed upside down. Open the AirTag again and flip the battery so the positive (+) side faces up. If it still does not chime, try a different battery to rule out a defective cell. If a second battery also does not work, the AirTag itself may be damaged and you may need to contact Apple.

How do I know when the battery is low?

The Find My app on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac will show a low battery notification when the CR2032 is running out of power. You will see a warning icon next to the AirTag's name in the app. This usually happens a few weeks before the battery completely dies, giving you time to buy and install a replacement.

Is it safe to replace the battery myself?

Yes, replacing an AirTag battery is safe. There are no electrical hazards, no small parts that can break easily, and the process is designed for anyone to do. The only risk is over-tightening the back, which could crack the plastic, but this is unlikely if you stop when you feel resistance.

Can I use a rechargeable CR2032 battery in an AirTag?

Rechargeable CR2032 batteries exist, but they are not recommended for AirTags. Rechargeable versions have a lower voltage than standard alkaline CR2032 cells, which can cause the AirTag to report a low battery warning even when the rechargeable battery still has charge. Stick with standard alkaline CR2032 batteries for the most reliable performance.