To change an AirTag battery, press down on the polished stainless steel cover and rotate it counterclockwise until it stops, then lift it off. Replace the old CR2032 lithium 3V coin battery with a new one, positive (+) side facing up, and you will hear a sound confirming the connection.
When to change your AirTag battery
Your iPhone will display a low battery notification when the AirTag battery needs to be replaced. You can also check the battery status in the Find My app by tapping the "Items" tab and then the AirTag; "Low Battery" will appear if the charge is low. This is your cue to perform the replacement.
What you'll need to change an AirTag battery
You only need a new CR2032 lithium 3V coin battery. Optional: Battery tester: If you want to ensure that the replacement battery is fully functional before installing it, a battery tester can come in handy. If using a bitterant-coated CR2032 battery, look for packaging that states "Compatible with Apple AirTag." No tools are required, the cover is opened by hand.
How to change an AirTag battery in 3 steps
- Open the AirTag. Press down on the polished stainless steel battery cover and rotate it counterclockwise until it stops. Remove the cover and the old battery.
- Replace the battery. Insert a new CR2032 lithium 3V coin battery with the positive (+) side facing up. You will hear a sound indicating that the battery is connected.
- Close the AirTag. Replace the cover by aligning the three tabs on the cover with the three slots on the AirTag. Press down and rotate the cover clockwise until it stops.
After closing, your AirTag is ready to use. If you need to connect my AirTag to my phone, it will automatically reconnect once the new battery is installed and the cover is secured.
Important safety warning
Keep AirTag, the battery cover, and the battery away from small children as they might present a choking hazard.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does an AirTag battery last?
The AirTag battery typically lasts for about one year with normal use. For more detailed AirTag battery life details, check the Find My app to see the current status.
How do I check the battery level in the Find My app?
Open the Find My app, tap the "Items" tab, and select your AirTag. If the battery is low, "Low Battery" will appear. There is no percentage indicator, the app only shows a warning when replacement is needed.
What type of battery does an AirTag use?
AirTags use a replaceable CR2032 lithium 3V coin battery. Ensure any bitterant-coated battery is labeled "Compatible with Apple AirTag" to avoid connection issues.
Can I use any CR2032 battery in my AirTag?
You can use any standard CR2032 lithium 3V coin battery, but bitterant-coated batteries (often used to deter children from swallowing them) may prevent the AirTag from working unless the packaging states compatibility.
What does the sound mean when I insert the new battery?
The sound confirms that the battery is connected and the AirTag is powered on. If you do not hear a sound, check that the battery is inserted positive-side up and seated properly.
How do I activate low-power mode on an AirTag?
To activate low-power mode, remove the AirTag's battery cover, press and hold the button until you see a flashing green light, and then release the button.
For the wider topic, see connect my AirTag to my phone.
