Open the AirTag and Remove the Old Battery

To replace an AirTag battery, hold the white plastic disc on the back of the AirTag and press down firmly while twisting counterclockwise. The white disc will pop out, and you'll see a small silver coin-cell battery inside. The battery is a CR2032 — this is the specific size you need to buy as a replacement.

Once the disc is open, lift out the old battery with your fingernail or a plastic tool. Do not use a metal object, as this can damage the AirTag's internal components. The battery may stick slightly, so be patient and gentle as you pry it free.

Key Takeaways

  • AirTags use a CR2032 coin-cell battery, which you can buy at any pharmacy, grocery store, or online retailer for $3 to $8.
  • Press down and twist the white plastic disc counterclockwise to open the AirTag; do not force it or use tools that might crack the plastic.
  • Insert the new battery with the positive side (marked with a +) facing up toward the white disc.
  • You will hear a small beep and see a green light when the new battery makes contact, confirming the AirTag is working.
  • A fresh CR2032 battery typically lasts about one year in an AirTag under normal use.

Insert the New CR2032 Battery

Before you install the new battery, check that the positive side (marked with a +) is facing upward. This matters — if you insert it backward, the AirTag will not work. Place the new battery into the circular slot inside the white disc, making sure it sits flat and level.

Press down gently on the battery to may support it makes full contact with the metal contacts inside. You should hear a small beep and see a green light flash on the AirTag's interior. This confirms the battery is installed correctly and the AirTag is powered on.

Close the AirTag and Test It

Once you see the green light, twist the white plastic disc clockwise until it clicks back into place. The disc should sit flush with the rest of the AirTag — if it feels loose or sits at an angle, unscrew it and try again. Make sure the disc is snug but do not over-tighten, as this can crack the plastic.

After closing the AirTag, open the Find My app on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac and tap the AirTag from your list of items. If the AirTag appears in the app and shows a green status, the battery replacement was successful. If it does not appear or shows a red status, remove the white disc again and check that the battery is seated correctly with the positive side facing up.

Where to Buy a CR2032 Battery

CR2032 batteries are widely available and inexpensive. You can find them at pharmacies like CVS or Walgreens, grocery stores, hardware stores, and online retailers like Amazon. A single battery costs between $3 and $8 depending on the brand and where you shop. Some stores sell them in multipacks, which is useful if you have multiple AirTags or other devices that use the same battery size.

When you buy a battery, check the expiration date on the packaging. Coin-cell batteries can lose charge over time even when not in use, so a fresher battery will last longer in your AirTag. Avoid extremely cheap batteries from unknown brands, as they may not hold a charge as long as name-brand options.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

The most frequent error is inserting the battery upside down. The positive side (marked with a +) must face up toward the white disc. If you do not see a green light after closing the AirTag, this is usually the reason — straightforward open it again and flip the battery over.

Another mistake is forcing the white disc open or closed. If it does not turn easily, stop and check that you are twisting in the correct direction. Counterclockwise opens it; clockwise closes it. Forcing a stuck disc can crack the plastic and make the AirTag unusable. If the disc is truly stuck, try wrapping a rubber band around it for better grip, or wait a few minutes and try again.

Do not use metal tools to pry open the disc or remove the battery. Metal can scratch the internal contacts and prevent the battery from making a good connection. Your fingernail or a plastic spoon works fine for both tasks.

How Long a New Battery Lasts

A fresh CR2032 battery in an AirTag typically lasts about one year under normal use. The exact lifespan depends on how often the AirTag is used — an AirTag on a frequently-used keychain will drain the battery faster than one on a rarely-moved backpack. The Find My app will notify you when the battery is running low, usually a few weeks before it dies completely.

If your AirTag's battery dies much sooner than a year, the device may be in a location with poor Bluetooth signal, which forces it to work harder and drain the battery faster. Moving the AirTag to a location with better signal coverage can extend battery life. If the battery still drains unusually fast, the AirTag itself may be faulty — contact Apple Support for guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different battery size in my AirTag?

No. AirTags are designed specifically for CR2032 batteries. Using a different size or type of battery will not fit in the slot, and forcing it in can damage the AirTag. Always use a CR2032.

What if the white disc won't open?

Try wrapping a rubber band around the disc to improve your grip, then twist counterclockwise again. If it is still stuck, wait a few minutes and try once more — sometimes the plastic just needs time to relax. Do not use pliers or metal tools, as these will damage the plastic.

Will replacing the battery erase my AirTag's location history?

No. Replacing the battery does not erase any data or location history. Your AirTag will continue to work with the Find My app exactly as it did before, and it will remain linked to your Apple ID.

How do I know if the battery is installed correctly?

You will see a green light flash inside the AirTag when the battery makes contact. If you do not see this light, the battery is likely inserted upside down or not seated properly. Open the AirTag again and check the battery orientation.

Can I recycle the old CR2032 battery?

Yes. Coin-cell batteries contain materials that can be recycled. Many pharmacies and electronics stores have battery recycling programs. Check with your local waste management facility or search for a recycling location near you online.