Apple AirTags are small tracking devices that can be attached to keys, wallets, backpacks, and other personal items to help you find them if they get lost. The replaceable CR2032 coin cell battery inside each AirTag lasts for over a year with typical daily use. When the battery runs low, you’ll get a notification on your iPhone prompting you to replace it.
Replacing an AirTag battery is a quick and simple process that takes just a few minutes. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do it properly.
Table of Contents
What You’ll Need
- Apple AirTag
- CR2032 lithium coin cell battery (avoid batteries with bitterant coating)
- Small screwdriver (optional)
I recommend getting your replacement CR2032 batteries from Energizer, Duracell or a reputable electronics brand. Some cheaper no-name batteries use a bitterant coating intended to deter kids and pets from swallowing them. This coating can prevent proper electrical contact, so avoid those batteries.
Step 1: Remove the Battery Cover
Flip your AirTag over so the stainless steel side is facing down and the white plastic side with the Apple logo is facing up.
Firmly press down on the edge of the AirTag in two places on either side of the logo. As you press down, rotate the cover counter-clockwise until it unlatches from the body.
You may need to press quite firmly or try pressing in slightly different spots to get it to turn. Keep rotating the cover until it detaches completely.
Tip: Using a small flat head screwdriver can help pry the cover open if you’re having trouble with just your fingers.
Step 2: Remove the Old Battery
Once the cover is off, lift out the old CR2032 battery. Note which side was facing up so you can insert the new battery correctly.
Step 3: Insert the Replacement Battery
Drop the new CR2032 battery into the AirTag with the positive (+) side facing up, just like the old battery was installed.
Press down gently until the battery clicks into place. You should hear a chime sound indicating the battery is connected properly.
Step 4: Replace the Battery Cover
Place the stainless steel cover back onto the AirTag. Turn it clockwise while pressing down until it clicks back into place securely.
Check Find My app to make sure AirTag is working again and shows good battery level. You did it!
Checking AirTag’s Battery Level
You can check the battery level of your AirTags at any time right in the Find My app.
Open Find My app > Tap Items tab > Select your AirTag. The current battery percentage will show under the AirTag’s name.
When an AirTag battery drops below certain level, you’ll get notified that the battery needs to be replaced soon. Don’t ignore these notifications or the battery may die unexpectedly.
Maximizing AirTag Battery Life
Here are some tips to make your AirTag batteries last as long as possible:
- Turn off unwanted alerts and sounds in Find My app settings
- Minimize use of the “Play Sound” feature to locate items
- Consider turning off Precision Finding if you don’t use that feature often
- Store AirTag in room temperature environment when possible
Following these best practices can help extend your AirTag battery life closer to the 1+ year estimate. But expect to replace batteries about once a year with typical daily usage.
Disposing AirTag Batteries Properly
While CR2032 coin cell batteries are very common, they should always be disposed properly as they contain lithium and can be hazardous to the environment.
Most battery retailers offer free recycling programs. You can also check with your local municipal household hazardous waste collection center.
Never throw used batteries in normal trash that goes to landfills. Always dispose properly for safety and environmental reasons.
Replacing Multiple AirTag Batteries
Once you get the hang of it, swapping out AirTag batteries is super quick and easy. But if you have multiple AirTags in use, their batteries will probably start running low around the same times.
Rather than replacing AirTag batteries one-by-one as they die, I recommend being proactive. About a month before each AirTag hits the 1-year mark, replace all batteries as a batch.
Buy a 4-pack of Energizer or Duracell CR2032 batteries. Then set aside 15-20 minutes to rotate out all batteries simultaneously. This approach prevents any unwanted downtime if batteries die sooner than expected.
I have used Apple AirTags daily for over 2 years to keep track of keys, backpacks, cameras, and more. The ability to quickly find lost items has been game changing. Replacing batteries annually is a small price to pay for the peace of mind these useful little tracking devices provide!
Let me know if you have any other questions about getting the maximum usefulness from your AirTags.
