The battery in your AirTag lasts about a year, and you replace it yourself by twisting the stainless steel back off and swapping in a new CR2032 coin cell battery

AirTags use a standard CR2032 battery, which costs between $3 and $8 for a pack of several. You do not need tools, a technician, or an Apple Store visit. The whole process takes less than a minute. Apple rates the battery life at roughly one year of normal use, though it varies depending on how often your AirTag sends location data.

The battery is not rechargeable. Once it runs low, you remove the old one and drop in a fresh CR2032. You can buy these batteries at most drugstores, supermarkets, electronics retailers, and online. They are also called watch batteries or coin cell batteries.

Key Takeaways

  • AirTags use a CR2032 coin cell battery that you can buy at any drugstore or supermarket for a few dollars.
  • To replace it, hold the AirTag with the stainless steel back facing up, then twist the back counterclockwise until it comes loose and lifts off.
  • Remove the old battery, drop in the new CR2032 with the positive side facing up, and twist the back on clockwise until it clicks.
  • Your AirTag will send a notification to your iPhone when the battery is low, giving you time to buy a replacement before it dies.

Step 1: Hold the AirTag and locate the stainless steel back

Pick up your AirTag and look at it. One side is white plastic; the other side is brushed stainless steel. The steel side is the back. Hold the AirTag so the steel back is facing up toward you, with the white plastic side resting in your palm or on a flat surface.

You do not need to remove the AirTag from any case or holder before you start. If it is in a keychain case or leather loop, you can leave it there. The back twists off regardless.

Step 2: Twist the back counterclockwise and lift it off

Using your thumb and fingers, grip the stainless steel back and twist it counterclockwise (the same direction you would turn to open a jar lid). You will feel resistance at first. Keep twisting gently but firmly until the back loosens and lifts away from the white plastic body.

The back is not threaded like a screw; it is a press-fit ring that rotates. You should hear or feel a small click when it releases. If it feels stuck, do not force it. Twist slowly and steadily. The back will come off.

Step 3: Replace the battery and close the back

Once the back is off, you will see the old CR2032 battery sitting in a small metal holder. The battery is a thin, round silver disk. Lift it out with your fingernail or a plastic tool. Do not use a metal tool that could scratch the inside.

Take your new CR2032 battery and check which side is which. The side with a plus sign (+) or raised marking is the positive side. Place the new battery into the holder with the positive side facing up (toward you). It should sit flat and snug.

Now twist the stainless steel back onto the white plastic body. Turn it clockwise (the same direction you would turn to close a jar lid) until you hear or feel a click. The back should be flush with the body and not wobble. Your AirTag is now ready to use.

Where to buy CR2032 batteries

CR2032 batteries are sold almost everywhere. You can find them at drugstores like CVS and Walgreens, supermarkets, Target, Walmart, Best Buy, and online retailers. A pack of two to four batteries usually costs $3 to $8. Some pharmacies sell individual batteries at the counter if you only need one.

Because these batteries are used in watches, calculators, hearing aids, and car key fobs, they are stocked year-round. You do not need to order online unless you prefer to. A quick trip to any pharmacy or grocery store will have what you need within the hour.

How to know when your battery is running low

Your iPhone will send you a notification when your AirTag battery is low. The message appears in the Find My app and as a push notification. You typically have a few weeks of warning before the battery dies completely, so you have time to buy a replacement without your AirTag going offline.

If you ignore the notification and the battery dies, your AirTag will stop sending location data. It will not work until you replace the battery. The device itself is not damaged; it simply needs power.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. AirTags are designed for CR2032 batteries only. Other coin cell batteries like CR2025 or CR2016 will not fit properly or work correctly. Always use a CR2032 to avoid damaging the device or creating a safety hazard.

What should I do with the old battery?

Do not throw it in the trash. Take it to a battery recycling program. Most retailers that sell batteries, including Best Buy and some drugstores, have drop-off bins for used batteries. Some communities also have hazardous waste collection days. Check your local waste management website for options.

Will my AirTag stop working if I don't replace the battery right away?

Yes. Once the battery is completely dead, your AirTag cannot send location data or connect to the Find My network. It will resume working as soon as you install a fresh battery. There is no permanent damage if you wait to replace it.

Is it safe to replace the battery myself?

Yes. The CR2032 battery is not dangerous to handle. It is the same type used in watches and hearing aids. Wash your hands after handling it, and do not let children put it in their mouths. The battery itself poses no risk during the replacement process.