Yes, you can replace the battery yourself in about one minute

AirTags use a standard CR2032 coin cell battery that you can swap out at home without tools or special knowledge. The battery lasts roughly one year under normal use, and Apple designed the AirTag so the back comes off easily by twisting it counterclockwise. Once you have a fresh CR2032 battery—available at any drugstore, grocery store, or online—you can have your AirTag working again before you finish reading this sentence.

The entire process takes less time than opening a bottle of aspirin. You do not need to pair the AirTag again after you replace the battery; it will reconnect to your iPhone or other Apple device automatically.

Key Takeaways

  • AirTags use a CR2032 coin cell battery that lasts about one year and costs between $3 and $8 per battery.
  • To replace it, twist the stainless steel back counterclockwise until it comes loose, remove the old battery, and insert the new one with the positive side facing up.
  • You do not need to re-pair your AirTag or do anything else after replacing the battery—it will work when ready.
  • If your AirTag still does not work after you install a fresh battery, the device itself may be damaged and cannot be repaired by Apple.

What battery type your AirTag needs

Your AirTag requires a CR2032 lithium coin cell battery. This is one of the most common battery sizes in the world, used in watches, calculators, car key fobs, and hearing aids. You can find CR2032 batteries at pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens, supermarkets, hardware stores, and online retailers like Amazon. A single battery usually costs between $3 and $8, depending on the brand and where you buy it.

Do not use a rechargeable CR2032 or a different coin cell size. The AirTag is designed specifically for the standard CR2032 chemistry and voltage. Using the wrong battery can damage the device or cause it to malfunction.

Step-by-step: removing and replacing the battery

Hold your AirTag with the stainless steel back facing up. Place your thumb on the edge of the steel back and twist it counterclockwise (the same direction you would turn a jar lid to open it). You will feel it loosen after a quarter turn. Keep twisting until the back comes free—usually this takes a half turn total.

Once the back is off, you will see the battery sitting in a small metal cup. Lift the battery straight up and out. The old battery will come away easily; if it sticks, gently pry it up with your fingernail or the edge of a plastic card.

Take your new CR2032 battery and check that you can see the positive side (marked with a + symbol). Place the battery into the metal cup with the positive side facing up toward you. The negative side will rest against the bottom of the cup. Press down gently until you hear or feel a small click—the battery is now seated.

Align the stainless steel back with the plastic body and twist it clockwise (the direction you would turn a jar lid to close it) until it is snug. Do not force it; it should tighten smoothly. Your AirTag is now ready to use.

How long a CR2032 battery lasts in an AirTag

Apple states that a CR2032 battery lasts approximately one year in an AirTag under normal use. "Normal use" means the AirTag is being tracked regularly—your iPhone is checking its location and receiving updates from the Find My network. If your AirTag sits unused in a drawer, the battery will last longer because it is not actively transmitting.

Battery life also depends on how often you use the AirTag's sound feature. Playing the sound drains the battery faster than passive tracking. If you play the sound multiple times per day, you may notice the battery depletes sooner than one year.

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 buy a replacement battery before the AirTag stops working.

What to do if the AirTag does not work after battery replacement

If you have installed a fresh CR2032 battery and your AirTag still does not appear in the Find My app or respond to sound commands, the device itself may have a hardware problem. Check first that the battery is inserted correctly—positive side up—and that the steel back is twisted on firmly enough that it does not move when you gently tug it.

If the battery is seated properly and the AirTag still does not work, Apple does not repair individual AirTags. The company does not sell replacement parts or offer a repair service for damaged devices. Your only option at that point is to purchase a new AirTag. If your AirTag failed shortly after purchase and you believe it is defective, contact Apple Support to discuss a replacement under warranty.

Disposing of the old battery safely

Do not throw a used CR2032 battery in the trash. Lithium batteries can pose a fire risk in landfills and waste processing facilities. Most drugstores and supermarkets have a battery recycling bin near the customer service desk or pharmacy counter—ask an employee where it is located. You can also search for a local battery recycling program at Call2Recycle.org or similar services in your area.

Some electronics retailers like Best Buy also accept used batteries for recycling at no charge. If you have multiple old batteries, this is often the fastest option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a rechargeable CR2032 battery in my AirTag?

No. Rechargeable CR2032 batteries have a different voltage and discharge curve than standard lithium CR2032 batteries. Using one can cause the AirTag to malfunction or damage the device. Always use a standard, non-rechargeable CR2032 lithium battery.

Do I need to unpair my AirTag before replacing the battery?

No. straightforward remove the old battery, install the new one, and twist the back on. Your AirTag will reconnect to your iPhone automatically within a few seconds. You do not need to open the Find My app or do anything else.

What if I lose the stainless steel back while replacing the battery?

Apple does not sell replacement backs separately. If you lose the back, you can contact Apple Support to ask about purchasing a replacement AirTag or explore third-party replacement backs sold online, though these are not official Apple products and may not fit perfectly.

How do I know when my AirTag battery is dying?

Your iPhone will send you a notification in the Find My app saying the battery is low. This usually happens a few weeks before the battery completely dies, giving you time to purchase a replacement. If you do not see a notification, the battery is probably still good.

Is there any way to make the battery last longer?

Battery life is mainly determined by how often the AirTag is tracked and how frequently you use the sound feature. If you use the sound multiple times per day, the battery will drain faster. Turning off notifications or using the AirTag less frequently can extend battery life slightly, but the difference is usually small.