Apple will replace your AirTag battery for free at most locations
Apple Stores and Apple Authorized Service Providers will replace your AirTag battery at no cost. You do not need to buy a new AirTag or pay a service fee — the battery swap itself is free. The catch is that you need to visit a physical location; Apple does not offer mail-in battery replacement for AirTags.
The process is straightforward: bring your AirTag to an Apple Store or authorized service location, tell them the battery is dead, and they will swap it out while you wait. Most replacements take 15 to 30 minutes. You will need to have your AirTag with you — they cannot replace a battery you mail in or leave at home.
Key Takeaways
- Apple Stores replace AirTag batteries for free, with no service charge or requirement to purchase anything.
- Apple Authorized Service Providers also offer free battery replacement, though availability varies by location.
- You must visit in person; Apple does not replace batteries by mail or remotely.
- The replacement usually takes 15 to 30 minutes and you can wait while they do it.
- If no Apple location is nearby, you can replace the battery yourself with a standard CR2032 coin cell battery for a few dollars.
Finding an Apple Store near you
Use Apple's store locator at apple.com/retail to find the nearest Apple Store. Enter your city or zip code, and the tool will show you every Apple Store within a reasonable distance, along with hours and phone numbers. Call ahead before you go — this gives the store a heads-up and lets you confirm they have time to do the swap that day.
Apple Stores are in major shopping areas and malls in most cities. If you live in a rural area or small town, the nearest store may be 30 minutes to an hour away. In that case, check whether an Apple Authorized Service Provider is closer — these are independent repair shops that Apple has certified to do battery work and other repairs.
Apple Authorized Service Providers as an alternative
Apple Authorized Service Providers are independent businesses that Apple has trained and certified to perform repairs, including battery replacement. You can find them through Apple's service locator at the same apple.com/retail page — just filter for "Service Providers" instead of "Apple Stores." Many phone carriers like Verizon and AT&T also have authorized service locations in their stores.
Service Providers follow the same pricing as Apple Stores: free battery replacement. However, their hours and availability vary. Some are open evenings and weekends when Apple Stores are not, which can be more convenient. Call ahead to confirm they do AirTag battery work and that they have time to see you.
What to bring when you visit
Bring your AirTag and a form of identification. You do not need your receipt or proof of purchase — Apple does not require it for a battery replacement. If you have the original packaging or any documentation, it can speed things up, but it is not necessary.
If your AirTag is part of a Find My network and you are concerned about losing track of it during the visit, you can remove it from Find My before you go. The store will not do this for you, and it takes only a minute on your iPhone or iPad. When you get home, add it back to Find My and it will resume working.
Replacing the battery yourself if you cannot visit a store
If no Apple location is nearby or you prefer not to visit a store, you can replace the battery yourself in about two minutes. AirTags use a standard CR2032 coin cell battery, which costs $2 to $5 at any drugstore, grocery store, or online retailer. You do not need any tools.
To replace it yourself, hold the stainless steel back of the AirTag and twist the white plastic battery cover counterclockwise until it comes loose. Remove the old battery, drop in a new CR2032 (positive side up), and twist the cover back clockwise until it clicks. Your AirTag will chime to confirm the new battery is working. This method works just as well as having Apple do it, and you save the trip.
What to expect if your AirTag is damaged
If your AirTag is cracked, water-damaged, or the battery cover is stuck or broken, Apple may not be able to replace just the battery. In these cases, they may recommend replacing the entire AirTag. Ask about the cost before they proceed — a full replacement is not free, though the price is usually $25 to $30 depending on your location.
If the damage happened because of a manufacturing defect (the cover cracked on its own, for example), mention this when you visit. Apple may replace the AirTag at no cost under its limited warranty. Bring your AirTag as-is and let them assess it; do not try to force the cover open or disassemble it further.
How long AirTag batteries last
A CR2032 battery in an AirTag typically lasts about one year under normal use. The exact lifespan depends on how often your iPhone reads the AirTag's location. If you check Find My constantly, the battery will drain faster. If you check it once a week, it will last longer.
Your iPhone will send you a notification when the battery is low, usually a few weeks before it dies completely. This gives you time to plan a visit to Apple or order a replacement battery online. You do not have to replace it the moment you see the warning — the AirTag will continue to work for a while after the alert, though its range will decrease.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an appointment to get my AirTag battery replaced at an Apple Store?
Appointments are not required, but calling ahead is a good idea. Walk-ins are usually welcome, but if the store is busy, you may wait 30 minutes to an hour. Calling gives you a sense of wait times and lets the staff prepare.
Will Apple replace my battery if I bought the AirTag somewhere other than Apple?
Yes. Apple replaces AirTag batteries regardless of where you bought it — Best Buy, Amazon, Target, or anywhere else. You do not need a receipt or proof of purchase.
Can I mail my AirTag to Apple for battery replacement?
No. Apple does not offer mail-in battery replacement for AirTags. You must visit a store or service provider in person, or replace the battery yourself with a CR2032 battery from a drugstore.
What if my AirTag battery dies while I am traveling?
If you are away from home, you can find an Apple Store or authorized service provider in any city using apple.com/retail. Alternatively, buy a CR2032 battery at any local pharmacy or convenience store and replace it yourself — it takes two minutes and costs a few dollars.
Is there any charge for the battery replacement, even if I did not buy the AirTag from Apple?
No. Battery replacement is free at all Apple Stores and Apple Authorized Service Providers, regardless of where you purchased the AirTag.