The AirTag battery comes out from the back and takes a standard CR2032 coin cell

Replacing an AirTag battery is straightforward: you flip the tracker over, press the stainless steel back cover counterclockwise until it clicks, lift it off, remove the old CR2032 battery, and snap a fresh one in. The whole process takes about 30 seconds. You do not need tools, and the battery costs between $3 and $8 at most drugstores or online retailers.

An AirTag will show a low battery notification on your iPhone when the battery is running out, giving you time to grab a replacement before it stops working. Most CR2032 batteries last about one year in an AirTag under normal use.

Key Takeaways

  • The AirTag uses a CR2032 coin cell battery, which you can buy at pharmacies, grocery stores, or online for a few dollars.
  • Press the stainless steel back cover counterclockwise (not clockwise) until you hear a click, then lift it away from the plastic body.
  • Remove the old battery by hand and insert the new CR2032 with the positive side facing up toward you.
  • Your iPhone will notify you when the battery is low, so you do not have to guess when replacement time is coming.

What you need before you start

Gather a CR2032 battery before you begin. This is a standard coin cell battery sold at pharmacies, supermarkets, dollar stores, and online. Check the label to confirm it says CR2032—do not grab a CR2025 or CR2016 by mistake, as they will not fit properly.

You do not need a screwdriver, knife, or any tool. The AirTag is designed to open by hand. If you find yourself forcing it or using a tool, you are turning the cover the wrong direction (it goes counterclockwise, not clockwise).

Step-by-step: opening the AirTag and removing the old battery

Hold the AirTag in one hand with the stainless steel back cover facing up. Place your thumb or fingernail on the edge of the metal cover where it meets the white plastic body. Press down gently and turn counterclockwise—the direction opposite to a clock's hands. You will feel resistance for a moment, then hear a small click. That click means the cover has released.

Lift the metal cover straight up and away from the plastic body. The old CR2032 battery will be sitting in a small metal holder inside. Tip the AirTag slightly or use your fingernail to pry the battery out. It should come free with minimal effort.

Installing the new battery

Before you insert the new battery, check which side is which. The CR2032 has a flat positive side (marked with a + symbol) and a flat negative side. Hold the AirTag so the metal holder is facing you. The positive side of the battery should face toward you—that is, toward the outside of the AirTag, not toward the plastic body underneath.

Drop the new battery into the metal holder with the positive side up. It will sit flat and snug. Do not force it; it should settle into place on its own. Now align the stainless steel cover with the plastic body and press down while turning clockwise (the opposite direction from when you opened it). You will hear another click when the cover locks back into place.

Confirming the battery is working

Open the Find My app on your iPhone and tap the Items tab. Select your AirTag from the list. If the battery replacement was successful, the battery status will show a full or nearly full battery icon. If it still shows low battery or no battery icon appears, remove the cover again and check that the positive side of the battery is facing outward.

The AirTag will also play a sound when you tap "Play Sound" in the Find My app if the battery is working. If you hear nothing, the battery may not be making contact with the metal holder. Remove the cover, take out the battery, and reinsert it, making sure it sits flat and centered.

Common mistakes and how to avoid them

The most frequent error is turning the cover clockwise instead of counterclockwise. If the cover will not budge or feels stuck, you are turning the wrong way. Stop when ready and reverse direction. Forcing it clockwise can strip the threads and damage the cover.

Another common mistake is inserting the battery upside down—with the negative side facing outward. The AirTag will not respond to your iPhone if the battery is reversed. If your AirTag is not showing up in Find My after replacement, open it again and flip the battery over.

Do not leave the AirTag open for extended periods. The metal holder can collect dust or debris if left exposed. Replace the cover as soon as you have inserted the new battery.

Where to buy CR2032 batteries

CR2032 batteries are sold at CVS, Walgreens, Walmart, Target, and most grocery stores in the pharmacy or health section. You can also order them online from Amazon, eBay, or the manufacturer's website. Prices typically range from $3 to $8 per battery, though buying a pack of four or more usually costs less per unit.

Check the expiration date on the package before you buy. An old battery may have lost charge even if it has never been used. Most retailers stock fresh inventory, but it is worth a quick look.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a CR2032 battery last in an AirTag?

A CR2032 typically lasts about one year in an AirTag under normal use. Heavy use—such as checking the AirTag's location multiple times per day or using it in a high-traffic area—may shorten battery life. Your iPhone will send you a notification when the battery is running low, usually a few weeks before it dies completely.

Can I use a rechargeable CR2032 battery?

Rechargeable CR2032 batteries exist, but they are not recommended for AirTags. Rechargeable versions have a lower voltage output than standard alkaline CR2032 cells, and the AirTag may not recognize them or may drain them faster. Stick with standard alkaline CR2032 batteries for best results.

What happens if I put the battery in upside down?

The AirTag will not work if the battery is reversed. Your iPhone will not detect it, and it will not respond to Find My commands. If this happens, straightforward open the cover again and flip the battery so the positive side faces outward. There is no damage to the AirTag from a reversed battery.

Do I need to reset my AirTag after replacing the battery?

No. The AirTag will resume working as soon as the new battery is installed and the cover is closed. Your iPhone will recognize it automatically, and all your previous settings and location history will remain unchanged.

Can I replace the battery myself, or do I need to go to Apple?

You can replace it yourself in about 30 seconds. Apple does not offer battery replacement service for AirTags—they are designed for user replacement. There is no warranty issue or risk in opening the AirTag yourself.