The battery in an AirTag comes out from the back and takes about 30 seconds to swap

An AirTag uses a standard CR2032 coin-cell battery that you can buy at any pharmacy, grocery store, or online retailer for a few dollars. When the battery runs low, your iPhone will send you a notification. You do not need tools, a computer, or any special knowledge — just pop the back off, remove the old battery, and drop in a new one. The whole process takes less than a minute.

Apple rates the CR2032 battery to last about one year under normal use, though that depends on how often your AirTag is actually tracking movement. If you use it on a keychain you carry every day, it will drain faster than one sitting in a desk drawer. Once you swap in a fresh battery, your AirTag works exactly as it did before — no re-pairing, no setup, nothing.

Key Takeaways

  • AirTags use a CR2032 coin-cell battery that you can buy at any drugstore or supermarket for a few dollars.
  • Your iPhone sends a low-battery notification when the battery is running out, so you know when to replace it.
  • To change the battery, press down on the stainless steel back of the AirTag and twist counterclockwise until it comes free.
  • Once the back is off, lift out the old battery, insert the new CR2032 with the positive side facing up, and snap the back on again.
  • The AirTag does not need to be re-paired or reset after a battery change — it continues working when ready.

How to remove the back of the AirTag

Hold the AirTag in one hand with the white plastic side facing you and the stainless steel back facing away. Place your thumb on the steel back and press down firmly. While pressing, twist the back counterclockwise (to the left) about a quarter turn. You will feel it loosen.

Once you feel the resistance drop, lift your thumb and pull the back straight away from the plastic body. The back will come free in your hand. Set it aside somewhere you will not lose it — you will need it to close the AirTag back up.

Removing the old battery and installing the new one

Inside the AirTag you will see a silver coin-shaped battery sitting in a small circular slot. Lift it straight out with your fingernail or a plastic tool. Do not use a metal tool, as it can scratch the inside of the AirTag.

Take your new CR2032 battery and check which side is which. The side with the numbers and markings printed on it is the positive side. Hold the battery so the positive side faces up (toward the white plastic part of the AirTag), then drop it into the slot. It will sit flat and snug. Do not force it — it should settle into place with gentle pressure.

Closing the AirTag and checking it works

Pick up the stainless steel back and align it with the plastic body so the slot on the back lines up with the slot on the body. Press the back down and twist it clockwise (to the right) until you hear or feel a click. The back should be snug and flush with the plastic — there should be no gap.

Within a few seconds, your iPhone should recognize that the AirTag is active again. If you had a low-battery notification before, it will clear. Your AirTag is now ready to use and will work exactly as it did before the battery change.

Where to buy a CR2032 battery

CR2032 batteries are sold almost everywhere. You can find them at drugstores like CVS and Walgreens, supermarkets, hardware stores, and online retailers like Amazon. A single battery usually costs between $2 and $5, and a pack of two or four costs only slightly more per battery. There is no brand that works better than another — any CR2032 will work in your AirTag.

If you want to keep a spare on hand, buying a small pack is smart. Since the battery lasts about a year, having one ready means you will not be without your AirTag while you wait for a new battery to arrive.

What to do if the back is stuck

If the back does not twist free easily, you may be twisting in the wrong direction. Make sure you are turning counterclockwise (to the left, the same direction a clock runs backward). Press down firmly while twisting — the pressure helps the threads engage.

If it still will not budge, try wrapping a thin cloth or rubber band around the steel back to improve your grip, then try again. Do not use pliers or a wrench, as they can dent or scratch the back. If the back remains stuck after a few gentle attempts, stop and contact Apple Support rather than risk damaging the AirTag.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of battery in my AirTag?

No. AirTags are designed specifically for CR2032 batteries. Other coin-cell batteries like CR2025 or CR2016 will not fit properly or work correctly. Always use a CR2032.

Do I need to unpair my AirTag before changing the battery?

No. You can change the battery without unpairing. straightforward swap the battery and the AirTag will continue working with your iPhone when ready. There is no setup or re-pairing needed.

What if my AirTag stops working after I put in the new battery?

Make sure the positive side of the battery (the side with printed numbers) is facing up toward the white plastic. If it is upside down, the AirTag will not work. Remove the back, flip the battery, and close it again.

How long does a CR2032 battery last in an AirTag?

Apple rates the battery to last about one year under normal use. If your AirTag is on a keychain you carry every day, it may drain faster. If it sits in a drawer, it may last longer. Your iPhone will notify you when the battery is running low.

Is it safe to throw away the old battery?

CR2032 batteries contain lithium and should not go in regular trash. Take the old battery to a drugstore, supermarket, or electronics retailer — most have battery recycling bins near the checkout or customer service desk. Some will take it for free.