AirTag batteries last about one year, and you can swap in a new one yourself in under a minute

Your AirTag uses a standard CR2032 coin cell battery, the same type found in watches, calculators, and car key fobs. When the battery runs low, your iPhone will send you a notification. You do not need to mail the AirTag anywhere or buy a new one—just pop out the old battery and drop in a fresh CR2032, which costs between $3 and $8 at any pharmacy, grocery store, or hardware retailer.

The replacement takes about 30 seconds and requires no tools. The AirTag is designed so the battery compartment opens by hand, and Apple does not seal it shut. Once you install the new battery, your AirTag will work exactly as before.

Key Takeaways

  • AirTag batteries are CR2032 coin cells, available at drugstores and supermarkets for a few dollars.
  • You open the battery compartment by pressing down on the stainless steel back and twisting counterclockwise until it stops.
  • The old battery slides out; the new one goes in with the positive side facing up.
  • Your iPhone will confirm the battery is working within a few seconds of installation.
  • Worn-out batteries should be recycled at a retailer that accepts them, not thrown in the trash.

What you need before you start

Gather a CR2032 battery before you begin. You can buy one at a pharmacy (CVS, Walgreens), a supermarket, a hardware store (Home Depot, Lowe's), or online. Some dollar stores and Target locations also stock them. The battery costs $3 to $8 depending on the brand and how many come in the pack.

You do not need a screwdriver, coin, or any other tool. The AirTag opens by hand. If you have fingernail strength, you can do this. If your hands are weak or you have arthritis, a coin or the edge of a credit card can help you grip the back, but it is not required.

Step-by-step: opening the battery compartment

Hold the AirTag in one hand with the white plastic side facing up. The stainless steel back is the battery compartment cover. Place your thumb or finger on the steel back and press down firmly—you will feel slight resistance. While pressing, twist the steel back counterclockwise (the same direction you would unscrew a jar lid). It will rotate about a quarter turn and then stop.

Once it stops, lift the steel back away from the plastic. The battery compartment is now open. You will see the CR2032 battery sitting inside, shiny side up. Do not force the back if it does not turn easily; you may have twisted the wrong direction. Try clockwise instead, or make sure you are pressing down while you twist.

Removing the old battery and installing the new one

The old battery slides out easily—just tip the AirTag or use your finger to push it out from the side. Set it aside; you will recycle it later. Do not throw it in the trash, as coin cell batteries contain materials that should not go to a landfill.

Take your new CR2032 battery and look at both sides. One side is flat and marked with a plus sign (+); that is the positive side. The other side is flat and unmarked; that is the negative side. Slide the battery into the compartment with the positive side facing up (toward the white plastic). It will sit flat and snug. You do not need to press hard or force it.

Replace the stainless steel back by pressing down and twisting clockwise until it stops. You will hear or feel a small click when it is seated correctly. The AirTag is now closed and ready to use.

Confirming the battery is working

Open the Find My app on your iPhone within a few seconds of installing the battery. Tap the Items tab at the bottom, then tap your AirTag. If the battery was installed correctly, the app will show a green battery icon and the message "Battery Good" or similar language. If you see a red battery icon or a low-battery warning, the battery may not be seated properly—open the compartment again and check that the positive side is facing up.

If the app does not update within 30 seconds, try closing Find My completely and opening it again. Sometimes the app needs a moment to refresh. If the battery icon still shows red after a minute, remove the battery, wipe both the battery and the compartment with a dry cloth to remove any dust or fingerprints, and reinstall it.

Where to recycle the old battery

Most retailers that sell CR2032 batteries also accept used batteries for recycling. Call ahead or ask at the customer service desk when you buy the new battery. Many pharmacies, Best Buy, Home Depot, and Lowe's locations have battery recycling programs. Some municipalities also run hazardous waste collection days where you can drop off batteries for free.

If you cannot find a local option, you can mail batteries to a recycling service, though this is usually only worth doing if you have several batteries to send. Check Call2Recycle.org or Earth911.com to find a drop-off location near you.

What to do if the compartment will not open

If the steel back will not turn, you may be twisting in the wrong direction. Try the opposite way—if you tried counterclockwise, try clockwise. Make sure you are pressing down while you twist; the back will not budge if you only twist without pressure.

If the back is stuck and will not move in either direction, do not force it. A stuck compartment usually means the back was overtightened during the last battery change. Try wrapping a rubber band around the steel back to improve your grip, then press and twist gently. If it still will not open after a few gentle attempts, contact Apple Support or visit an Apple Store; they can open it for you and install a new battery.

How often you will need to replace the battery

A CR2032 battery in an AirTag typically lasts about one year under normal use. Your iPhone will notify you when the battery is running low, usually a few weeks before it dies completely. You do not have to replace it the moment you see the notification, but it is a good idea to do so within a week or two so your AirTag does not stop working while you are relying on it.

If you use your AirTag very frequently—checking its location multiple times a day—the battery may drain faster. If you use it rarely, it may last longer than a year. The notification is the most reliable signal that it is time to replace the battery.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. AirTag is designed for CR2032 batteries only. Other coin cell batteries, such as CR2025 or CR2016, are physically different sizes and will not fit or work. Always buy a CR2032 specifically.

What happens if I install the battery upside down?

The AirTag will not work, and your iPhone will show a low or dead battery icon. Remove the back, flip the battery so the positive side faces up, and reinstall it. There is no risk of damage if you install it backward—it straightforward will not function until you correct it.

Is it safe to replace the battery myself?

Yes. The AirTag battery compartment is designed for user replacement, and there are no sharp edges, springs, or small parts that can cause injury. The CR2032 battery is also safe to handle with bare hands. Wash your hands after handling the battery if you prefer, but it is not necessary.

Do I need to remove my AirTag from Find My before replacing the battery?

No. You can replace the battery while the AirTag is still linked to your account. The AirTag will stay paired to your iPhone, and you do not need to re-add it or change any settings.

Where is the cheapest place to buy CR2032 batteries?

Prices vary, but dollar stores, Walmart, and Amazon often have the lowest per-battery cost, especially if you buy a multi-pack. Pharmacies and grocery stores are usually more expensive per unit but convenient if you need one when ready. Compare prices before you buy if you have time.