The battery in an AirTag lasts about one year and then needs replacing

AirTags use a standard CR2032 coin-cell battery that you can buy at any pharmacy, grocery store, or online retailer for $3 to $8. The battery replacement takes less than a minute and requires no tools. You simply twist the stainless steel back of the AirTag, lift it off, swap out the old battery for a new one, and twist the back on again.

Apple does not offer battery replacement as a service. You cannot mail an AirTag to Apple or take it to an Apple Store to have the battery changed. The company designed the AirTag specifically so you can do this yourself at home.

Key Takeaways

  • AirTag batteries last roughly one year before they need replacing, though heavy use can shorten that time.
  • You need only a CR2032 battery, which costs a few dollars and is sold in most stores that carry batteries or first-aid supplies.
  • The back of the AirTag twists off by hand — no screwdriver or special tool is required.
  • Your AirTag will alert you through the Find My app when the battery is running low, giving you time to buy a replacement before it dies.

What you need before you start

Gather a CR2032 battery before you begin. This is a small, flat, round battery about the size of a dime. You can find CR2032 batteries at pharmacies (CVS, Walgreens), grocery stores, hardware stores, and online through Amazon or other retailers. A pack of two or four batteries costs $4 to $10 and lasts through multiple AirTag replacements.

You do not need any tools. The AirTag is designed to open by hand. If you have arthritis or weak grip strength, you can wrap the back in a thin cloth or rubber band to improve your grip, but this is optional.

Step 1: Locate the stainless steel back

Hold the AirTag in your hand with the white plastic side facing up. The stainless steel back is the flat metal circle on the bottom. You will see a small seam running around the edge where the metal back meets the plastic body.

The back does not come off by pulling straight up. It twists off like a bottle cap, rotating counterclockwise when you look at it from the bottom.

Step 2: Twist the back counterclockwise

Place your thumb on the stainless steel back and your fingers on the white plastic side to brace it. Twist the metal back counterclockwise (to the left) with steady, firm pressure. You should feel it loosen after a quarter turn or so.

Do not force it. If it is not moving, you may be twisting the wrong direction or gripping in a way that does not let the back rotate. Adjust your grip and try again. The back should come off with gentle, consistent pressure — it is not meant to require force.

Step 3: Remove the old battery and insert the new one

Once the back is loose, lift it away from the AirTag body. You will see the old CR2032 battery sitting in a small metal cup inside. The battery has a flat side and a slightly domed side.

Lift out the old battery. Drop the new CR2032 battery into the same cup with the flat side facing down and the domed side facing up — the same orientation as the old battery was in. The battery should sit flat in the cup without wobbling.

Step 4: Twist the back on and verify it is secure

Hold the AirTag body steady and align the stainless steel back with the seam on the plastic. Twist the back clockwise (to the right) until you feel it stop. You should hear or feel a slight click when it seats fully.

The back should be snug and flush with the plastic body when it is fully seated. If there is a gap or the back feels loose, twist it a bit more clockwise. Do not over-tighten — once it stops, it is secure.

How to know when the battery is running low

Your iPhone or iPad will send you a notification through the Find My app when the AirTag battery is low. This alert typically comes when the battery has a few weeks of life left, giving you time to buy a replacement before the AirTag stops working.

You can also check the battery status manually by opening the Find My app, tapping the Items tab, selecting your AirTag, and looking at the battery percentage shown on the details screen. If you see a red battery icon or a percentage below 10 percent, replace the battery soon.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of battery instead of CR2032?

No. The AirTag is designed specifically for CR2032 batteries. Other battery types will not fit properly or may damage the AirTag. CR2032 is a standard size sold everywhere, so finding one is not difficult.

What if the back will not twist off?

Make sure you are twisting counterclockwise (to the left). If it still will not move, try wrapping the metal back in a thin cloth or rubber band to improve your grip, then twist again with steady pressure. If the back remains stuck, contact Apple Support — this is rare, but it can happen if the back was over-tightened during manufacturing.

How long does a new battery last?

A CR2032 battery typically lasts about one year in an AirTag under normal use. Heavy use — such as playing the AirTag's sound frequently or checking its location constantly — can shorten battery life. Apple's estimate of one year is based on average use patterns.

Do I need to reset the AirTag after changing the battery?

No. The AirTag will resume working immediately once the new battery is installed and the back is secured. You do not need to re-pair it with your iPhone or make any changes in the Find My app.

Can I recycle the old battery?

Yes. CR2032 batteries contain materials that can be recycled. Most retailers that sell batteries — including Best Buy, Home Depot, and many pharmacies — accept used batteries for recycling at no cost. You can also check Earth911.com to find a recycling location near you.