Replace the battery yourself in under a minute

An AirTag battery dies after about a year of normal use. You do not need to send it anywhere or buy a new tracker — you swap out the coin-cell battery yourself. The whole job takes less than a minute and costs between $3 and $8 for a replacement CR2032 battery at any pharmacy, grocery store, or online retailer.

Apple designed the AirTag to open by hand. No tools, no adhesive, no special equipment. The battery compartment is on the back of the white plastic disc, and once you know the motion, it becomes automatic.

Key Takeaways

  • AirTag batteries are standard CR2032 coin cells, sold at drugstores and supermarkets for a few dollars.
  • The battery compartment opens by pressing down on the stainless steel back and twisting counterclockwise until it stops.
  • Remove the old battery, drop in the new one with the positive side facing up, and twist the back clockwise until it clicks.
  • Your AirTag will chime when the new battery is seated correctly, confirming the swap is complete.

What you need before you start

Gather a CR2032 battery. This is the standard coin-cell size used in watches, calculators, and key fobs. You will find them at CVS, Walgreens, Target, Walmart, or any pharmacy. They are also available on Amazon and eBay. A single battery costs between $3 and $8 depending on the brand and quantity you buy.

You do not need a screwdriver, coin, or any other tool. The AirTag back twists by hand. If you have arthritis or weak grip strength, a rubber gripper pad (the kind used to open jar lids) can help you get traction on the metal back, but it is not required.

Step 1: Locate the battery compartment

Hold the AirTag with the white plastic side facing you. Flip it over so you are looking at the stainless steel back. The entire back is the battery compartment — it is a flat metal disc about the size of a quarter.

You will see no seams, screws, or hinges. The back twists off as a single piece. This is the only moving part on the device.

Step 2: Press and twist to open

Place your thumb on the center of the metal back. Press down firmly and twist counterclockwise (the direction opposite a clock's hands) at the same time. You are not unscrewing something threaded — you are pressing a spring-loaded catch while rotating. The back will stop turning after about a quarter turn.

Do not force it. If it does not turn easily, you are likely twisting the wrong direction or not pressing down hard enough. Try again with more downward pressure and make sure you are going counterclockwise.

Step 3: Remove the old battery and insert the new one

Once the back is loose, lift it away from the white plastic body. Inside you will see the old CR2032 battery sitting flat in a shallow cup. Tip the AirTag or use your fingernail to pry the old battery out — it should come free with minimal effort.

Take the new CR2032 battery and look at both sides. One side is marked with a + symbol (the positive side) and one side is blank (the negative side). Drop the new battery into the cup with the + side facing up, toward the metal back you just removed. The battery should sit flat and level.

Step 4: Twist the back closed and listen for the chime

Place the metal back on top of the battery, aligning it with the white plastic body. Press down and twist clockwise (the direction a clock's hands move) until you feel it click or stop turning. This usually takes a quarter turn, the same distance you twisted to open it.

Within a few seconds, your AirTag will emit a chime or beep sound. This confirms the battery is seated correctly and the device is powered on. If you do not hear a sound, the battery may not be making contact. Open the back again, remove the battery, and reseat it with the + side facing up.

Troubleshooting if the AirTag does not chime

If you close the back and hear nothing, open it again and check the battery orientation. The + symbol must face upward, toward the metal back. If it is upside down, the device will not power on.

If the battery is oriented correctly and still silent, the battery itself may be defective. Try a different CR2032 from a different package or brand. Occasionally a battery arrives dead from the factory. Once you swap it, the AirTag should chime when ready.

If the AirTag still does not respond after trying a second battery, the device itself may have a hardware fault. In that case, contact Apple Support or visit an Apple Store to discuss repair or replacement options.

How often you will need to replace the battery

A CR2032 battery in an AirTag lasts approximately one year under normal use. "Normal use" means the AirTag is in your bag, on your keys, or attached to an item you carry daily, and your iPhone checks its location regularly.

If you use the AirTag less frequently — for example, attached to a suitcase you travel with only a few times a year — the battery may last longer. If you enable the speaker to play sounds often or use the Find My feature constantly, it may drain faster. Apple's official estimate is one year, and most users find that accurate.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. The AirTag is designed specifically for CR2032 coin cells. Other battery types will not fit the compartment or will not provide the correct voltage. Always use a CR2032.

What if I lose the metal back?

Contact Apple Support. Replacement backs are available through Apple, though you may need to purchase a new AirTag if the back is not sold separately in your region. Keeping the back safe during battery changes prevents this problem.

Is it safe to replace the battery myself?

Yes. The CR2032 is a standard consumer battery with no special handling requirements. Wash your hands after handling it if you prefer, but there is no risk of shock or chemical exposure. Millions of people replace these batteries in watches and hearing aids every day.

Do I need to remove the AirTag from my iPhone before changing the battery?

No. You can change the battery while the AirTag is still registered to your account. The device will reconnect automatically once the new battery is installed and the chime sounds.

Where is the cheapest place to buy CR2032 batteries?

Prices vary by location and retailer. Drugstores and supermarkets usually charge $4 to $8 per battery. Buying a multi-pack on Amazon or at warehouse stores like Costco is often cheaper per unit if you have multiple devices that use them. Compare prices before you buy.