What You Need Before You Start

An AirTag battery lasts about one year of normal use. When the battery runs low, your iPhone will send you a notification. Replacing it takes about two minutes and requires only one thing: a fresh CR2032 coin cell battery, the same size used in watches, calculators, and car key fobs. You can find CR2032 batteries at any pharmacy, grocery store, or electronics retailer for a few dollars.

You do not need any tools. The AirTag is designed to open by hand, and Apple deliberately made it straightforward enough that you can do this without a screwdriver or special equipment. The battery itself is not rechargeable—once it dies, you replace it with a new one.

Key Takeaways

  • AirTag batteries last roughly one year, and your iPhone will notify you when the battery is low.
  • You need only a CR2032 coin cell battery, available at any pharmacy or grocery store for a few dollars.
  • The AirTag opens by twisting the stainless steel back counterclockwise until it comes free—no tools required.
  • The old battery pops out easily; drop the new one in with the positive side facing up, then twist the back closed until you hear a click.
  • Your iPhone will confirm the battery is working within a few seconds of closing the AirTag.

How to Open Your AirTag

Hold the AirTag in one hand with the white plastic side facing up. The stainless steel back is the part you need to remove. Place your thumb on the steel back and your fingers underneath the white plastic edge. Push down gently with your thumb while pulling up slightly with your fingers—this creates tension that makes the next step easier.

Twist the steel back counterclockwise (the same direction you would unscrew a jar lid). You will feel it loosen after about a quarter turn. Keep twisting until the back comes completely free. The white plastic ring inside may come loose at the same time—that is normal. Set the back and ring aside on a clean surface where you will not lose them.

Removing the Old Battery and Installing the New One

Inside the AirTag, you will see a small silver coin sitting in a circular metal holder. This is your old CR2032 battery. Tip the AirTag slightly so the battery slides out into your hand. If it does not slide easily, gently pry it out with your fingernail or the edge of a plastic card—do not use a sharp metal object, as this can damage the inside of the AirTag.

Before you insert the new battery, look at it closely. One side is marked with a plus sign (+)—this is the positive side. Hold the AirTag so the metal holder is facing up, and drop the new battery in with the positive side facing up. You should hear or feel a soft click as it seats. The battery should sit flat and flush with the holder, not tilted or sticking up.

Closing the AirTag and Confirming It Works

Pick up the white plastic ring you set aside earlier. Slide it back into the groove around the inside edge of the white plastic body—it should fit snugly. Now take the stainless steel back and align it with the body of the AirTag. The back has a small notch, and the body has a matching tab; line these up so the back sits evenly.

Twist the steel back clockwise (the same direction you would screw a jar lid closed) until you feel resistance. Keep twisting gently until you hear a distinct click—this means the back is fully seated and locked. Do not force it; if you feel strong resistance before the click, the back is probably misaligned. Untwist it, check the alignment, and try again.

Within a few seconds of closing the AirTag, open the Find My app on your iPhone. Tap Items, then tap your AirTag. If the battery status now shows as full or good, the replacement was successful. If it still shows low or no battery, the battery may not be making contact. Open the AirTag again and check that the battery is sitting flat and the positive side is facing up.

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 top of the AirTag. If you insert it with the negative side up, the AirTag will not work, but no damage occurs—straightforward open it again and flip the battery over.

Another common mistake is not twisting the back closed far enough. The click is important; it means the back is locked in place and the battery is making proper contact. If you close it partway and stop, the AirTag may not work reliably. Twist until you feel that distinct click, then stop—you do not need to force it further.

Do not use a metal tool to pry out the old battery if it is stuck. The inside of the AirTag is plastic, and a screwdriver or coin can scratch or crack it. Your fingernail or a plastic card works just as well and will not damage anything.

What to Do With the Old Battery

CR2032 batteries contain lithium and should not go in the trash. Most pharmacies, electronics stores, and municipal hazardous waste facilities accept used batteries for recycling at no charge. Some retailers that sell batteries, such as Best Buy, have battery recycling programs at the customer service desk. Call ahead to confirm they accept coin cell batteries, or check their website.

If you cannot find a recycling option nearby, you can store the old battery safely in a cool, dry place until you have a chance to drop it off. Keep it away from metal objects that might cause it to short circuit.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. AirTag is designed specifically for CR2032 batteries. Other coin cell sizes, such as CR2025 or CR2016, will not fit properly or may not work at all. Always use CR2032.

How often do I need to replace the battery?

Most users replace the battery once per year under normal use. Heavy use—such as playing sounds on the AirTag frequently or using it in a very large area—may drain the battery faster. Your iPhone will notify you when the battery is low, so you will know when replacement is needed.

What if my AirTag still does not work after I replace the battery?

First, open the AirTag again and confirm the battery is inserted with the positive side facing up and is sitting flat in the holder. If it is, try a different new CR2032 battery in case the first one was defective. If a fresh battery still does not work, the AirTag itself may be damaged and may need to be replaced.

Is it safe to replace the battery myself, or should I take it to Apple?

It is completely safe to replace the battery yourself. Apple designed AirTag specifically so users can do this without tools or special knowledge. You do not need to visit an Apple Store or send it in for service.

Can I buy rechargeable CR2032 batteries for my AirTag?

Rechargeable CR2032 batteries exist, but they are not recommended for AirTag. Rechargeable versions have a lower voltage than standard CR2032 batteries and may not power the AirTag reliably. Stick with standard, non-rechargeable CR2032 batteries.