Open the AirTag and remove the old battery

To change the battery in an AirTag, start by holding the white plastic disc on the back of the device. Press down firmly and twist it counterclockwise until it stops — you do not need to force it. The disc will pop out, and you will see the battery sitting inside a small metal holder.

The battery is a CR2032 coin cell, the same type used in watches and calculators. Lift it straight out of the holder. If it sticks slightly, use your fingernail or a plastic spoon to gently pry it up from the edge. Do not use a sharp metal tool, as you can scratch the metal contacts inside the AirTag.

Key Takeaways

  • The AirTag uses a CR2032 coin cell battery that you can buy at any drugstore, supermarket, or hardware store for a few dollars.
  • Press down and twist the white plastic disc counterclockwise to open the AirTag; do not force it or you may crack the plastic.
  • When you insert the new battery, the metal side must face up toward you so the contacts touch properly.
  • The AirTag will play a sound and show a notification on your iPhone when the new battery is installed correctly.
  • A fresh CR2032 battery lasts about one year before the AirTag alerts you that the battery is low.

Insert the new CR2032 battery

Buy a replacement CR2032 battery from a drugstore, supermarket, or hardware store. They cost between two and five dollars. Make sure you are buying CR2032 specifically — other coin cell sizes will not fit.

Hold the new battery with the metal side facing up (toward you). Slide it into the metal holder inside the AirTag. The metal contacts on the holder should touch the flat metal side of the battery. You will hear a small click when it sits in place correctly.

Close the AirTag and confirm the battery is working

Press the white plastic disc back onto the AirTag and twist it clockwise until it stops. It should feel snug but not tight. You do not need to force it — if it does not turn easily, remove it and check that the battery is sitting flat in the holder.

When the battery is installed correctly, your iPhone will play a sound and show a notification that says the AirTag is connected. If you do not see this notification within a few seconds, remove the disc, check that the battery metal side is facing up, and try again. A notification confirms the battery is making proper contact with the AirTag's electronics.

What to do if the battery does not fit or the AirTag does not respond

If the disc is hard to turn, the battery may be sitting at an angle. Remove the disc and lift out the battery. Look inside the metal holder — it should be clean and free of debris. If you see any dirt or corrosion, wipe it gently with a dry cloth. Then reinsert the battery with the metal side up and try closing the disc again.

If the AirTag still does not show a notification after you close it, the battery contacts may not be touching. This usually happens if the battery is upside down (metal side facing down into the holder). Open the AirTag again and flip the battery so the metal side faces up. Close it and wait a few seconds for the notification.

How often you need to replace the AirTag battery

A new CR2032 battery lasts about one year in an AirTag. Your iPhone will send you a notification when the battery is running low, usually a few weeks before it dies completely. You do not have to replace it when ready — the AirTag will continue to work for a short time after the low battery warning, but you should plan to change it within the next week or two.

Battery life depends on how often you use the Find My app to locate the AirTag. If you check its location several times a day, the battery may drain faster than one year. If you rarely use Find My, the battery may last longer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of coin cell battery instead of CR2032?

No. The AirTag is designed for CR2032 batteries only. Other coin cell sizes like CR2025 or CR2016 will not fit in the holder, and using the wrong size can damage the AirTag. Always buy CR2032 specifically.

What happens if I put the battery in upside down?

The AirTag will not work if the battery is upside down. The metal side of the battery must face up toward you so it touches the metal contacts inside the AirTag. If you close the disc and do not see a notification on your iPhone, open it again and flip the battery over.

Do I need to do anything special before removing the old battery?

No. You can remove the old battery and install a new one without any setup steps. The AirTag will recognize the new battery automatically and send a notification to your iPhone within a few seconds of closing the disc.

Where is the cheapest place to buy a CR2032 battery?

Drugstores, supermarkets, and hardware stores all carry CR2032 batteries for similar prices, usually two to five dollars each. Online retailers like Amazon also sell them, often in packs of multiple batteries. Check your local store first if you need the battery right away.

Can I recharge a CR2032 battery instead of replacing it?

No. CR2032 batteries are not rechargeable. Once the battery is dead, you must replace it with a new one. Rechargeable coin cell batteries exist, but they are not designed for AirTags and may not work properly.