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 drugstore, supermarket, or online retailer for $3 to $8. When the battery runs low, your iPhone will send you a notification. You do not need tools, a technician, or the Apple Store — you can replace it yourself by twisting the back cover off, removing the old battery, and sliding a new one in.

The whole process takes less than a minute. The battery typically lasts about a year under normal use, though that varies depending on how often the AirTag is detecting motion and sending location updates.

Key Takeaways

  • AirTags use CR2032 batteries, which are widely available and inexpensive.
  • You remove the battery by twisting the stainless steel back cover counterclockwise until it comes loose.
  • The old battery slides out; the new one slides in with the positive side facing up.
  • Your iPhone will confirm the battery is working when you put the cover back on.

What you need before you start

You need a CR2032 battery. These are sold everywhere — drugstores like CVS and Walgreens, supermarkets, hardware stores, and online retailers all stock them. A single battery costs between $3 and $8 depending on the brand and where you buy it. You do not need a special tool or screwdriver.

If you do not have a CR2032 on hand, order one online or pick one up the next time you are at a store. Your AirTag will continue to work until the battery is completely dead, though you will see a low-battery warning on your iPhone first.

How to remove the back cover

Hold the AirTag in one hand with the white plastic side facing up. The stainless steel back cover is the shiny metal disc on the bottom. Place your thumb on the metal cover and your fingers on the plastic side to grip it firmly.

Push down gently with your thumb while twisting the metal cover counterclockwise (the same direction you would turn a door handle to the left). You will feel it loosen after a quarter turn or so. Keep twisting until the cover comes free — it usually takes two or three full rotations. The cover is not glued on; it straightforward screws off.

Removing the old battery and installing the new one

Once the cover is off, you will see a silver coin-shaped battery sitting in a small circular slot. Slide it out toward you with your fingernail or the edge of a coin. It comes out easily and there is no spring or clip holding it in place.

Take your new CR2032 battery and check which side is which. The side with writing and a plus sign (+) is the positive side; the blank side is negative. Slide the new battery into the slot with the positive side facing up (toward the white plastic). It should sit flat and snug in the circular recess.

Putting the cover back on and confirming it works

Place the metal cover back on the AirTag with the battery side down. Align it so the cover sits flat, then twist it clockwise (to the right) until it is snug. You will feel slight resistance as it tightens. Do not force it — it should stop naturally when it is fully seated.

Within a few seconds, your iPhone will send you a notification confirming that the AirTag battery is good. If you do not see a notification, open the Find My app, tap Items, select your AirTag, and check the battery status. It should show a full or nearly full battery level. If it still shows low or no battery, remove the cover and make sure the new battery is sitting flat with the positive side up, then try again.

What to do with the old battery

Do not throw the old CR2032 battery in the trash. Take it to a store that accepts battery recycling — most Best Buy locations, Home Depot, and Lowe's have battery drop-off bins near the front. Some drugstores and supermarkets also accept them. If you cannot find a drop-off location nearby, search "battery recycling near me" to find options in your area.

If recycling is not practical, you can store the old battery in a safe place until you have a few to drop off together. Keep it away from metal objects and moisture.

How long the new battery will last

A CR2032 battery in an AirTag typically lasts about one year. This depends on how often the AirTag is moving and sending location updates. An AirTag that stays in one place (like on a keychain in your home) will use less battery than one that travels with you daily. An AirTag in a car or bag that moves frequently may need a new battery sooner.

Your iPhone will notify you again when the battery gets low, so you will have time to order a replacement before it dies completely.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. AirTag is designed specifically for CR2032 batteries. Other coin-cell batteries like CR2025 or CR2016 are physically different sizes and will not fit properly or work correctly. Stick with CR2032.

What happens if I put the battery in upside down?

The AirTag will not work if the battery is installed with the negative side facing up. Your iPhone will show no battery or a low-battery warning. straightforward remove the cover, flip the battery so the positive side faces up, and replace the cover. It takes 30 seconds to fix.

Do I need to reset my AirTag after changing the battery?

No. The AirTag remembers all its settings and your pairing information. Once you put the new battery in and screw the cover back on, it will reconnect to your iPhone automatically within a few seconds.

Where is the cheapest place to buy CR2032 batteries?

Prices vary, but drugstores and supermarkets often have single batteries for $4 to $6. Buying a pack of four or eight online can lower the per-battery cost to $1 to $2 each. Compare prices on Amazon, Walmart, and your local stores before you buy.