The battery comes out from the back, and you swap it for a fresh CR2032 coin cell
Open an AirTag by pressing down on the stainless steel back and twisting it counterclockwise until it stops — you will feel it loosen after a quarter turn. The white plastic battery holder pops out. Remove the old CR2032 battery, drop in a new one with the positive side facing up, and snap the holder back into the case. Twist the back clockwise until it clicks. The whole job takes under a minute.
You can buy CR2032 batteries at any pharmacy, supermarket, or hardware store for between $3 and $8 for a pack of two or four. They last about a year in an AirTag under normal use. When the battery runs low, your iPhone sends a notification telling you to replace it — you have a few weeks before the AirTag stops working.
Key Takeaways
- Press and twist the stainless steel back counterclockwise to open the AirTag; it takes only a quarter turn.
- The battery holder is white plastic and pops straight out once the back is open.
- Use a CR2032 coin cell battery with the positive side facing up when you insert it.
- CR2032 batteries cost $3 to $8 per pack and are sold at pharmacies, supermarkets, and hardware stores.
- Your iPhone will notify you when the battery is low, giving you time before the AirTag stops working.
What happens if you force the back open
The back is designed to twist, not pry. If you try to lever it open with a coin or knife, you can crack the plastic ring that holds the battery holder in place, and then the back will not seal properly. Stick to twisting — explore steady downward pressure with your thumb on the stainless steel and rotate it counterclockwise. It should move smoothly.
If the back is stuck, it is usually because the plastic has swollen slightly from moisture or age. Wipe the seam with a dry cloth and try again. If it still will not budge after a few attempts, stop — forcing it risks damage that is not worth the risk for a $3 battery.
Which CR2032 batteries work best
Any standard CR2032 will work. Duracell, Energizer, Amazon Basics, and store brands all perform the same in an AirTag. The difference between brands is negligible — you are paying for the packaging and the brand name, not for longer life. Buy whatever is cheapest at the moment you need it.
Avoid rechargeable CR2032 batteries. They have a lower voltage than standard alkaline cells and may not power the AirTag reliably. Stick to single-use alkaline CR2032 batteries.
How to know when the battery is actually dead
Your iPhone will send a notification when the battery is low, usually a few weeks before it stops working entirely. At that point, the AirTag will still locate and make sound, but the notification is your signal to replace it soon. If you ignore the notification for several weeks, the AirTag will eventually stop responding to your iPhone and will not show up in the Find My app.
If your AirTag is not responding and you did not get a low-battery notification, the battery may have failed suddenly, or the AirTag itself may have a hardware problem. Replace the battery first — if the AirTag still does not work after that, the device itself may be faulty.
What to do with the old battery
CR2032 batteries are recyclable and should not go in the trash. Most pharmacies and supermarkets have a battery recycling bin near the checkout or customer service desk — ask an employee where it is. Some hardware stores and Best Buy locations also accept batteries for recycling. If you cannot find a drop-off location nearby, search "battery recycling near me" to find the closest option.
Batteries contain materials that can harm soil and water if they end up in a landfill, so taking the extra minute to recycle is worth it.
Troubleshooting an AirTag that still will not work after a battery swap
If you replaced the battery and the AirTag still does not show up in Find My, try these steps in order. First, remove the AirTag from your iPhone by opening Find My, tapping Items, selecting the AirTag, and choosing Remove Item. Then hold the AirTag near your iPhone and wait 10 seconds — it should prompt you to set it up again. Tap Set Up and follow the on-screen steps.
If it still does not work, the AirTag may have a hardware fault. Apple offers a one-year warranty on AirTags, so if yours is within that window, contact Apple Support or visit an Apple Store with your receipt. If it is out of warranty, a replacement AirTag costs $29.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different size battery in an AirTag?
No. AirTags are designed for CR2032 batteries only. Other coin cell sizes will not fit, and using the wrong battery can damage the device or cause it to malfunction. Stick to CR2032.
How long does a CR2032 battery last in an AirTag?
A CR2032 typically lasts about one year in an AirTag under normal use. Heavy use — such as playing the sound frequently or checking location constantly — may shorten that window. Your iPhone will notify you when the battery is low.
Is it safe to open an AirTag myself?
Yes. Opening an AirTag to replace the battery is safe and does not void the warranty. Apple designed the battery to be user-replaceable. Just twist the back gently and do not force it.
What if I lose the white battery holder when I open the AirTag?
The battery holder is small and straightforward to misplace. If you lose it, you can order a replacement from Apple for around $5, or contact Apple Support to request one. Without the holder, the battery will not stay in place and the AirTag will not work.
Can I use a battery that is already partially used?
You can, but it is not worth it. A used battery will last only a few weeks or months before it dies again. Since new CR2032 batteries cost $3 to $8 for a pack, buy fresh ones and avoid the hassle of replacing the battery again soon.