The AirTag opens by twisting the stainless steel back

To change the battery in an AirTag, you twist the metal back counterclockwise until it comes loose, then lift it off. The battery sits in a small circular holder inside. You do not need tools — your fingers are enough. The whole process takes under a minute.

Apple designed the AirTag so the back twists off rather than snaps or slides. This means you can open it repeatedly without wearing out the mechanism. The metal back is the part with the Apple logo on it.

Key Takeaways

  • Grip the AirTag with one hand on the white plastic body and twist the metal back counterclockwise with your other hand until it separates.
  • The battery holder is a small circular tray inside the AirTag that you can lift straight out once the back is off.
  • AirTags use CR2032 batteries, which are common coin-cell batteries sold at drugstores, supermarkets, and online retailers.
  • After you insert the new battery with the positive side facing up, twist the metal back clockwise until it sits flush with the plastic body.

Step-by-step: opening and closing the AirTag

Hold the AirTag in one hand with the metal back facing up. Use your other hand to grip the metal back and turn it counterclockwise — the same direction you turn a jar lid to open it. You will feel it loosen after a quarter turn or so.

Once the back is loose enough, lift it straight off. You will see a small circular battery holder inside the white plastic body. The holder is not glued in — you can lift it out by pinching the edges or using your fingernail to pry it slightly.

After you replace the battery, set the holder back into the AirTag and align the metal back with the body. Twist it clockwise until it is snug. Do not force it — it should turn smoothly and stop when it is seated properly.

What battery type the AirTag uses

AirTags use a CR2032 battery, a standard coin-cell battery about the size of a dime. This is one of the most common battery types sold in the United States. You can find CR2032 batteries at any pharmacy, grocery store, or big-box retailer in the battery aisle. They are also sold online through Amazon, Walmart, Target, and other retailers.

A single CR2032 battery typically costs between one and three dollars. Some stores sell them individually; others sell them in packs of two or more. If you buy a pack, you will have spares for future replacements or for other devices that use the same battery type.

Inserting the new battery correctly

When you place the new CR2032 battery into the holder, the positive side must face up — the side with the plus sign or the shiny flat surface. The negative side, which is usually dimpled or marked with a minus sign, faces down toward the bottom of the holder.

If you insert the battery upside down, the AirTag will not work. You will not damage the AirTag, but it will not power on. straightforward open it again, flip the battery, and close it. The AirTag will start working when ready once the battery is in the correct position.

When the AirTag stops responding after a battery change

If you have replaced the battery and the AirTag still does not show up in the Find My app on your iPhone or iPad, try opening it again and reseating the battery. Sometimes the battery holder does not make full contact on the first try. Remove the battery, wait a few seconds, and insert it again with the positive side facing up.

If the AirTag still does not respond after reseating the battery, the battery itself may be defective. Try a different CR2032 battery from a different package or brand. Occasionally a battery from the store is dead on arrival, especially if it has been sitting on a shelf for a long time.

How often you need to replace the AirTag battery

Apple states that an AirTag battery lasts about one year under normal use. The actual lifespan depends on how often the AirTag is moving and sending location updates. An AirTag on a keychain that travels with you daily will drain the battery faster than one attached to a stationary item like a suitcase you use once a month.

Your iPhone will send you a notification when the battery is running low, usually a few weeks before it dies completely. This gives you time to pick up a replacement battery before the AirTag stops working. You do not have to replace it the moment you see the notification — the AirTag will continue to work for several more weeks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different battery type in my AirTag?

No. AirTags are designed for CR2032 batteries only. Other coin-cell batteries like CR2025 or CR2016 are physically similar but have different voltage or capacity, and they will not power the AirTag correctly. Stick with CR2032.

What if I twist the back too hard and it will not come off?

You likely twisted it clockwise instead of counterclockwise. Try turning it the other direction. If it still will not budge, wrap a rubber band around the metal back to improve your grip and try again. Do not use pliers or tools — they can damage the metal. A rubber band usually provides enough extra grip to open it by hand.

Is the AirTag waterproof if I open it to change the battery?

Yes. The AirTag is rated IP67, which means it can survive submersion in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes. The seal between the metal back and plastic body is designed to keep water out even after you have opened and closed it multiple times. You do not need to do anything special after replacing the battery.

Can I replace the battery while the AirTag is still attached to my keys or bag?

Yes. You do not need to remove the AirTag from whatever it is attached to in order to change the battery. You can open and close it while it is on your keychain or in your bag. Just make sure you have good lighting so you can see the battery holder clearly.