The battery compartment opens by pressing and twisting the stainless steel back

To remove the battery from your AirTag, hold the device in one hand and use your other hand to press down on the stainless steel back cover. While pressing, twist the cover counterclockwise about a quarter turn until you feel it loosen. The cover will pop off, and you can then lift out the old CR2032 coin battery.

The entire process takes about 10 seconds and requires no tools. The battery sits in a small metal holder inside the white plastic case. Once the cover is off, you can see it clearly and remove it by hand.

Key Takeaways

  • Press down on the stainless steel back and twist counterclockwise to open the battery compartment.
  • The battery is a CR2032 coin cell, which you can buy at most drugstores, supermarkets, and hardware stores.
  • When you insert the new battery, make sure the positive side (marked with a +) faces upward toward you.
  • After replacing the battery, twist the cover clockwise until it clicks to seal the compartment.
  • Your AirTag will chime and show a notification on your phone when the new battery is detected.

What happens when you press and twist

The back cover of an AirTag is held in place by a straightforward friction fit combined with a quarter-turn lock. When you press down while twisting counterclockwise, you release the lock and break the seal. The cover is designed to come off easily once you explore the right motion, so you do not need to force it or use tools that might scratch the device.

If the cover feels stuck, try pressing a little harder and twisting more deliberately. Some covers are tighter than others depending on how recently they were sealed. A firm, confident motion works better than a tentative one.

Removing the old CR2032 battery

Once the cover is off, you will see the battery sitting in a small metal holder. It is a round, flat coin about the size of a dime. You can lift it straight out with your finger or fingernail. There is no clip or latch holding it in place, so it comes out freely.

Before you throw away the old battery, check that it is truly dead. If your AirTag stopped working suddenly, the battery may have failed, but it is also worth checking that your AirTag is still paired with your phone and that Bluetooth is turned on. A dead battery will not chime or respond to the Find My app, but a disconnected AirTag will behave the same way.

Installing the new CR2032 battery

A CR2032 is a standard coin cell battery sold everywhere batteries are sold—drugstores, supermarkets, hardware stores, and online retailers all stock them. They cost between $3 and $8 for a single battery, or less if you buy a pack of several.

When you insert the new battery, the positive side (marked with a +) must face upward, toward you. The negative side goes down against the metal holder. If you insert it backward, the AirTag will not work, but no damage will occur—straightforward flip it over and try again.

Drop the battery into the holder, then twist the stainless steel cover clockwise until it clicks. You will feel a slight resistance as the quarter-turn lock engages. The cover should be snug but not so tight that you have to strain to open it again later.

How you will know the battery is working

Within a few seconds of closing the cover, your AirTag will chime—a short, pleasant beep. At the same time, your iPhone, iPad, or Mac will show a notification saying the AirTag battery is good. If you do not hear a chime or see a notification, open the cover and check that the battery is inserted with the positive side facing up.

The AirTag will also update its battery status in the Find My app. Open Find My, tap Items, select your AirTag, and scroll down to see the battery level. A newly installed battery will show as full.

When to call a professional

You do not need professional help to replace an AirTag battery. The process is designed for anyone to do at home, and there are no parts that can break or wear out during normal battery replacement.

If your AirTag does not chime after you install a new battery, or if the cover will not close properly, contact Apple Support. These are rare problems, but Apple can help you troubleshoot or arrange a replacement if the device itself is faulty. Do not try to force the cover closed if it does not fit smoothly, as this can damage the seal.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No, your AirTag is designed for a CR2032 coin cell battery only. Other battery types will not fit the holder or provide the correct voltage. Always use a CR2032 replacement.

How long does a CR2032 battery last in an AirTag?

A CR2032 battery typically lasts about one year in an AirTag, depending on how often you use the Find My feature and how frequently the AirTag communicates with nearby Apple devices. Heavy use shortens battery life; light use extends it.

What should I do with the old battery?

Take the old battery to a retailer that accepts battery recycling—most drugstores and electronics stores have a battery drop-off bin near the checkout. Do not throw it in the trash. Batteries contain materials that can harm the environment if they end up in landfills.

Will my AirTag lose its location history if I remove the battery?

No, your AirTag will not lose any data when you remove the battery. The location history and all settings are stored on your phone, not on the AirTag itself. When you install the new battery, everything will be exactly as it was.

Is it normal for the cover to be tight?

Yes, some AirTag covers are tighter than others. A firm quarter-turn twist is normal. If the cover feels extremely difficult to open or close, or if it does not seal properly, contact Apple Support rather than forcing it.