How to Replace AirTag Battery: Step-by-Step Guide (2026)

Every Apple AirTag comes with a CR2032 battery, which lasts for almost 1 year. But if you are here, then it means you also got the “AirTag battery is low” notification on your iPhone. This means it is time to change your AirTag battery, which takes less than a minute, and you don’t even need any specialized tools. You can do it all on your own. But if you need some guidance, then keep reading to learn how to replace an AirTag battery in a few easy steps.

How to Check AirTag Battery Level

Apple does not show the exact battery level of your AirTag, as it does for AirPods and Apple Watch. However, you should get a low battery notification whenever the AirTag battery is low. You can also go to the Find My app to check whether your AirTag battery level is low. Here’s how to do it:

1. Open the Find My app on your iPhone and navigate to the Items tab from the bottom.
2. Select your AirTag, and it should display Low battery if the AirTag’s battery is about to die.

What Battery Does AirTag Use? (CR2032 Explained)

Apple’s AirTag uses a CR2032 lithium coin battery. This is typically used in toys, remote controls, and other electronic items around your house. But before you head out to get a new battery for your AirTag, make sure to check its compatibility.

Make sure to get a coin battery that explicitly states that it is “Compatible with AirTag”. If you don’t find that, then Apple recommends using a bitterant-coated CR2032 battery. You can also use a Duracell 2032 Lithium Coin Battery with Bitter Coating.

Note:

It’s worth mentioning that some CR2032 batteries may not work with AirTags. In such a case, you can slightly scratch off the coating with a sandpaper sheet.

How to Replace AirTag Battery (Step-by-Step)

Once you have the correct type of battery, make sure to remove the tracker from its case or accessory. Now, you are ready to replace your AirTag battery. Simply follow the steps below:

1. Flip the AirTag around so the white side faces down, and the stainless steel side is up (towards you).
2. Now, use two fingers to push in and twist counter-clockwise on the steel side.
3. After that, remove the old CR2032 battery and replace it with a new battery with the “+” sign facing up. Here’s a GIF showing the whole replacement process:

4. If the battery is connected properly, you’ll hear a beep sound.
5. Finally, place the stainless steel cover back on by twisting it clockwise.

Note:

An AirTag, its back cover, and the battery are choking hazards. So, make sure to keep your children away during the replacement process.

Troubleshooting: AirTag Not Working After Battery Replacement

In case your AirTag is not connecting after changing batteries, then the issue could be with the installation, connectivity, or the battery itself. I have faced similar issues while replacing my AirTag’s battery. Here are some troubleshooting methods you can try to fix your AirTag:

• Check the battery orientation: Make sure the CR2032 battery in your AirTag is placed with the positive (+) side facing up. Many people make this mistake on their first attempt.
• Listen for the beep sound: Once you have inserted the battery, you should hear a beep sound, confirming the battery has been replaced correctly. If you do not hear, remove and reinstall the battery.
• Check CR2032 battery compatibility: Some CR2032 batteries with bitterant coatings could block electrical contact. Check if it is the correct type and compatible with AirTags.
• Reset the AirTag: You can also try resetting the AirTag. To do this, remove and reinsert the battery several times until you hear five beeps. This indicates the AirTag is ready to pair again.
• Check iPhone connectivity: Also, ensure that Bluetooth, Location Services, and the Find My app are enabled on your iPhone so the AirTag can reconnect properly.
• Clean the battery contacts: Make sure to clean the battery properly before inserting it in your AirTag. This is because dust, corrosion, or residue can block power transfer.

Troubleshooting: AirTag Cover Stuck / Won’t Open

Many of you might find it difficult to remove the metal cover on the AirTag to replace its battery. This is most likely a grip-related issue, since the smooth metallic surface makes it difficult to twist the cover open. Try out these troubleshooting tips to remove the cover from your AirTag.

• Keep AirTag in your palm: Keep the AirTag in the palm of your hand, then apply pressure from the top and twist it to open its cover. This is the best method, since it provides enough grip and pressure to open the top.
• Try using a coin: You can also place a coin or any other flat object on the cover and press while turning it counterclockwise to help open the AirTag.
• Clean the surface: Dirt or oils from your hands can make the metal cover harder to grip. Wipe it clean and try again.
• Avoid using sharp tools: Don’t use sharp tools like knives, blades, or screwdrivers to pry open the metal cover. This can permanently damage the AirTag.

How Long Does an AirTag Battery Last?

As mentioned previously, AirTag uses a standard CR2032 lithium coin cell battery that lasts about one year before it needs to be replaced. The battery depletes faster if you are using features like playing sound or tracking quite often.

If your AirTag battery starts running low, your iPhone or any other connected Apple device will automatically notify you in the Find My app to replace it before the tracker stops working entirely.

Tips to Make AirTag Battery Last Longer

While you shouldn’t worry about your AirTag’s battery life since it already lasts a year. But if you want to stretch its lifespan further, you can try out these simple habits.

• Don’t play the sound frequently: Playing the AirTag sound repeatedly through the Find My app can drain the battery faster. Avoid doing so to stretch its longevity.
• Reduce location checks: Frequently checking the AirTag’s location also increases battery consumption. This is another habit you can reduce to increase the battery life of your AirTag.
• Store AirTag in moderate temperatures: Extreme heat or cold can affect the lithium coin cell battery’s performance and shorten its lifespan. Don’t store it anywhere with extreme temperatures.
• Use high-quality CR2032 batteries: Don’t use cheap or incompatible batteries, as they may drain faster. Choose reputable brands only, like Duracell.

Do I Need to Re-Pair AirTag with iPhone After Battery Replacement?

No, you don’t need to re-pair your AirTag with your iPhone or other Apple devices after replacing the battery. Once a new CR2032 battery is inserted correctly, the AirTag automatically powers on and reconnects to your Apple ID through the Find My network.

Just make sure that there is a small beep sound once you have replaced the battery. This will confirm that your AirTag is working properly and connected to your devices. However, if the AirTag does not reconnect or appears offline in the Find My app, you may need to reset it and pair it again manually.

How to Dispose of AirTag Batteries Safely

The biggest question everyone has when replacing their AirTag battery is how to dispose of the older one. The CR2032 lithium coin cell battery should not be thrown in regular household trash. These batteries contain harmful materials, which can be harmful for kids, pets, and even the environment.

The safest way is to take the used CR2032 battery to a local recycling center. Many supermarkets, hardware stores, and electronics shops also have proper battery collection bins. You can throw the old batteries there. Also, make sure to place a small piece of tape over both terminals to prevent any accidental short-circuiting.

Did You Successfully Replace Your AirTag Battery?

That’s all it takes to replace the battery when it runs out of juice after close to a year’s worth of use. Now, head to the Find My app to check if there is a low-battery icon or a similar notification. Once you’ve replaced the battery, it should work just fine for another year or so.