AirTag batteries last about a year, and replacing one takes 30 seconds
Your AirTag uses a standard CR2032 coin-cell battery that you can swap out yourself without tools or special knowledge. When the battery runs low, your iPhone will send you a notification saying "AirTag Battery Low" — that is your signal to grab a fresh battery and do the swap. The whole process takes less than a minute, and you do not need to remove the AirTag from its holder or case.
The battery costs between $3 and $8 for a pack of several, and you can find them at any pharmacy, grocery store, or online retailer. Apple does not sell replacement batteries themselves, but any CR2032 battery works — the brand does not matter. Once you install the new battery, your AirTag will work exactly as before.
Key Takeaways
- AirTag batteries are CR2032 coin cells, available at pharmacies and grocery stores for $3 to $8 per pack.
- Your iPhone sends a "Battery Low" notification when replacement is needed, usually after about a year of use.
- You can replace the battery without removing the AirTag from its holder — just open the back and swap the old battery for the new one.
- The replacement takes about 30 seconds and requires no tools, screwdrivers, or technical steps.
How to open the back of your AirTag
The back of your AirTag is a metal disc that twists off. Hold the AirTag in one hand with the white plastic side facing up. Place your thumb on the metal back and your fingers underneath the plastic front, then twist the metal disc counterclockwise — it will come loose after a quarter turn or so. You do not need to force it; if it is stuck, try gripping the plastic side more firmly so it does not slip.
Once the back comes off, you will see the battery sitting in a small metal cup. The battery has a shiny side facing up and a flat side facing down. Do not touch the shiny side with your bare fingers if you can help it — oils from your skin can reduce battery life slightly, though it is not a deal-breaker if you do.
Remove the old battery and insert the new one
Pry the old battery out of its cup using your fingernail or the edge of a coin. It will pop out easily. Drop the new CR2032 battery into the cup with the shiny side facing up, making sure it sits flat and level in the metal cup. You will hear or feel a small click when it is seated correctly.
If the battery does not sit flat or feels loose, remove it and check that the cup is clean and free of dust or debris. A quick wipe with a dry cloth is usually enough. Then place the battery back in and press gently until it clicks into place.
Twist the back on and test the connection
Hold the AirTag with the plastic side up and align the metal back so the seam lines up. Twist the metal disc clockwise until it is snug — you will feel it tighten, and the back should sit flush with the plastic. Do not over-tighten; once it feels snug, stop turning.
Open the Find My app on your iPhone and tap the AirTag from your list. If the battery notification disappears and the AirTag shows as "Connected," the new battery is working. If you still see a low battery warning, remove the back again and make sure the battery is seated all the way down in its cup.
Where to buy CR2032 batteries
CR2032 batteries are sold almost everywhere. Check your local pharmacy (CVS, Walgreens), grocery store, or big-box retailer like Target or Walmart. They are usually in the electronics or battery aisle, often near the watch batteries. A pack of two to four batteries typically costs $3 to $8.
Online, you can order them from Amazon, Best Buy, or the pharmacy websites of major chains. Buy a pack with a few extra batteries — you will likely have another AirTag or device that uses them eventually, and they last for years in storage if kept at room temperature.
How long a new battery will last
A fresh CR2032 battery in an AirTag typically lasts about one year under normal use. The actual lifespan depends on how often your AirTag sends location updates — if you move around frequently or have multiple AirTags in the same area, the battery may drain slightly faster. If your AirTag sits in one place most of the time, it may last a bit longer.
You do not need to do anything special to extend battery life. Just replace it when you get the notification, and your AirTag will keep working. There is no need to remove the AirTag from its holder between uses or turn it off — it is designed to run continuously until the battery is depleted.
What to do if the battery still does not work after replacement
If you installed a new battery and the AirTag still shows as disconnected or low battery in Find My, try these steps: First, remove the back again and make sure the battery is sitting all the way down in its metal cup with the shiny side facing up. Second, check that the metal back is twisted on tightly so it makes good contact with the battery. Third, wait a few minutes — sometimes the app takes a moment to refresh after a battery swap.
If the AirTag still does not connect after those steps, the battery itself may be defective (rare, but it happens). Try a battery from a different pack or brand. If a second battery does not work, the AirTag itself may have a hardware issue, and you would need to contact Apple or replace the AirTag. This is uncommon — most battery swaps work on the first try.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of battery in my AirTag?
No — AirTag is designed for CR2032 coin-cell batteries only. Other battery types will not fit the cup or will not power the device correctly. Stick with CR2032, and any brand will work fine.
Do I need to reset my AirTag after changing the battery?
No reset is needed. Once the new battery is installed and the back is twisted on, your AirTag will reconnect to your iPhone automatically within a few minutes. Your location history and settings stay the same.
What should I do with the old battery?
Take it to a battery recycling program or drop it off at a retailer that accepts batteries — most pharmacies and electronics stores have a collection bin near the checkout. Do not throw it in the trash. If you cannot find a local program, search "battery recycling near me" online.
Is it safe to touch the battery with my bare hands?
Yes, it is safe. CR2032 batteries are not toxic and do not carry a shock risk. Oils from your skin can slightly reduce battery life if you handle it a lot, but a quick touch or two will not cause a problem.
How do I know if my AirTag battery is actually low?
Your iPhone will send a notification that says "AirTag Battery Low" when the battery is running out. You will also see a battery icon in the Find My app next to the AirTag name. If you do not see either of these, your battery is fine and does not need replacing yet.