Open the AirTag and remove the old battery

To change the battery in an Apple AirTag, start by holding the white plastic back cover and twisting the stainless steel ring counterclockwise. The ring will loosen after a quarter turn — you do not need to twist hard or all the way around. Once loose, lift off the ring and the white cover together as one piece.

Inside, you will see a small silver battery sitting in a circular metal holder. The battery is a CR2032 coin cell, the same type used in watches and calculators. Press down gently on the battery and it will pop out of the holder. Set the old battery aside — you can recycle it at most electronics stores or battery retailers.

Key Takeaways

  • The AirTag uses a CR2032 coin cell battery that you can buy at any drugstore, supermarket, or electronics retailer for a few dollars.
  • Open the AirTag by twisting the stainless steel ring counterclockwise only a quarter turn, then lift off the ring and white cover together.
  • Press down on the old battery to pop it out, then drop the new battery in with the positive side facing up.
  • Twist the ring clockwise until it stops to seal the AirTag — do not force it or overtighten.

Insert the new CR2032 battery

Before you install the new battery, check that you have the right type. The label should read CR2032 — this is a standard size found in most stores. Look at the battery itself: one side is flat and marked with a plus sign (the positive side), and the other side is slightly raised.

Drop the new battery into the circular metal holder with the positive side facing up toward you. The battery should sit flat and snug in the holder. If it feels loose or tilted, remove it and try again — the battery must make good contact with the metal holder for the AirTag to work.

Seal the AirTag

Once the battery is in place, pick up the white cover and stainless steel ring. Line up the two small notches on the white cover with the two small tabs inside the AirTag body — this ensures the cover sits correctly. Place the ring and cover back on top of the AirTag.

Twist the ring clockwise until it stops. You will feel slight resistance as the threads catch, and the ring will stop turning when it is fully seated. Do not force it or overtighten — if you feel strong resistance before the ring stops, remove it and reseat the cover, then try again. A properly sealed AirTag will have the ring flush against the white cover with no gaps.

Buying the right replacement battery

A CR2032 battery costs between one and three dollars and is widely available. You can find them at pharmacies like CVS or Walgreens, supermarkets like Walmart or Target, electronics stores like Best Buy, and online retailers. Some dollar stores also carry them. Buy a name brand like Energizer, Duracell, or Panasonic — generic versions work but may not last as long.

Apple does not sell AirTag batteries separately, and you do not need to go to an Apple Store to replace one. Any CR2032 battery from any retailer will work in your AirTag. If you own multiple AirTags, buying a pack of two or four batteries is more economical than buying single batteries.

How often you need to replace the battery

Apple rates the CR2032 battery in an AirTag to last about one year under normal use. The actual lifespan depends on how often your AirTag sends location updates — an AirTag in a frequently-used bag or on a daily-use keychain will drain the battery faster than one in a closet. If you notice the AirTag app showing a low battery warning, you have a few weeks before the battery dies completely.

The AirTag will send you a notification on your iPhone when the battery is running low. You do not have to replace it when ready, but it is a good reminder to pick up a new battery before the old one dies. A dead AirTag will not work until you replace the battery — there is no way to charge it or extend its life.

Troubleshooting if the AirTag does not work after battery replacement

If your AirTag does not respond after you install a new battery, first check that the battery is seated correctly. Remove the ring and cover, press down on the battery to make sure it is fully in the holder, and reseal the AirTag. Sometimes a battery that looks seated is actually tilted slightly and not making full contact.

If the battery is seated correctly but the AirTag still does not work, try a different new battery from a different package or brand. Occasionally a battery from the store is defective or dead on arrival. If a second battery also does not work, the AirTag itself may have a hardware problem — contact Apple Support for options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a rechargeable CR2032 battery in my AirTag?

Rechargeable CR2032 batteries exist, but Apple does not recommend them. Rechargeable versions have a lower voltage than standard alkaline CR2032 batteries, and the AirTag may not recognize them or may drain them very quickly. Stick with standard alkaline CR2032 batteries for the best performance.

What should I do with the old battery?

Do not throw it in the trash. Take it to a battery recycling program — most electronics stores, pharmacies, and municipal hazardous waste facilities accept used batteries for free. Some retailers like Best Buy have battery drop-off bins near the entrance.

Will the AirTag work if I do not seal the ring all the way?

The AirTag will work with the ring loose, but the white cover can fall off and the battery can shift inside. Always twist the ring until it stops to keep the battery find and protect the internal components from dust and moisture.

How do I know if I am twisting the ring the right direction?

To open the AirTag, twist counterclockwise — the same direction you would turn to loosen a jar lid. To close it, twist clockwise. If you are unsure, try a gentle quarter turn in one direction; if the ring tightens instead of loosening, reverse direction.