Batteries for Apple Air Tags: Essential Guide

Apple AirTag batteries are standard CR2032 lithium coin cells, widely available and inexpensive. Replacing them is a simple DIY task that takes just a few minutes. This guide shows you how to easily swap out your AirTag’s battery to keep your items trackable.

Misplacing your keys or bag can be a stressful experience, and worrying about your trusty Apple AirTag losing power adds to that anxiety. But don’t let a dead battery leave you guessing! The good news is that AirTags use a common, easy-to-find battery, and changing it yourself is a breeze. Think of it like swapping out a watch battery – it’s straightforward and doesn’t require any special tools or technical know-how. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about AirTag batteries. We’ll cover which battery to get, how to change it safely, and what to do if you encounter any hiccups. Get ready to keep your AirTags powered up and your belongings found!

Understanding Your Apple AirTag Battery

Apple designed AirTags with simplicity in mind, and that includes their power source. Inside each AirTag is a single, standard battery that powers its tracking capabilities. Knowing a bit about this battery will help you ensure your AirTag is always ready to go.

What Type of Battery Does an AirTag Use?

Your Apple AirTag runs on a single CR2032 lithium coin cell battery. These are the same type of batteries you’ll find in many other small electronic devices, like car key fobs, small remote controls, and even some digital scales. They are readily available at most supermarkets, drug stores, and electronics shops. The CR2032 is a 3-volt battery, known for its long life and reliability in low-power devices.

Why CR2032? The Benefits of This Battery Choice

Apple chose the CR2032 for several good reasons:

Availability: As mentioned, you can find them almost anywhere. This means you’re never too far from a replacement when you need one.
Cost-Effective: CR2032 batteries are generally inexpensive, making the ongoing cost of using AirTags very low.
Lifespan: These batteries are designed to last for about a year under normal usage, which is a good balance between longevity and size.
Safety: While all batteries should be handled with care, the CR2032 is a common lithium coin cell that is safe when used as intended.
Standardization: Using a standard battery means you don’t need to buy special, proprietary batteries from Apple.

How Long Does an AirTag Battery Last?

Apple states that a CR2032 battery in an AirTag can last for approximately one year. This can vary depending on how often your AirTag needs to communicate its location through the Find My network. Factors like frequent tracking, being in busy areas with many other Apple devices, and environmental conditions (like extreme cold or heat) can slightly impact battery life.

When the battery starts to get low, your iPhone will notify you. You’ll typically receive a notification saying “Low Battery” or something similar, letting you know it’s time to think about a replacement. You can also check the battery status of your AirTag directly within the Find My app.

Signs Your AirTag Battery Needs Replacing

Keeping track of your belongings means your AirTag needs to be ready at all times. Fortunately, your iPhone is here to help you know when it’s time for a fresh battery.

Notifications from Your iPhone

The most straightforward way to know your AirTag battery is low is through a notification on your iPhone. When the battery reaches a critical point, your phone will proactively send you an alert. This usually happens a few weeks before the battery is expected to die completely, giving you ample time to find a replacement.

Checking in the Find My App

You can also manually check the battery status of your AirTag anytime within the Find My app. Here’s how:

Open the Find My app on your iPhone.
Tap on the Items tab at the bottom of the screen.
Select your AirTag from the list of your items.
You’ll see the battery status displayed below the AirTag’s name. A green icon usually indicates a healthy battery, while a yellow or red icon might suggest it’s getting low.

AirTag Not Appearing in Find My

If an AirTag suddenly stops appearing in your Find My app, and you haven’t received any low battery notifications, a dead battery is a likely culprit. While less common if you’ve been paying attention to notifications, it’s still a possibility.

How to Replace Your AirTag Battery: A Step-by-Step Guide

Replacing the battery in your Apple AirTag is designed to be a simple, secure process. It requires no special tools, just a little bit of gentle pressure and a new CR2032 battery. Here’s how to do it safely and effectively.

Gather Your Supplies

Before you start, make sure you have the following:

Your Apple AirTag
One new CR2032 lithium coin cell battery. It’s a good idea to have a spare on hand!
A clean, well-lit workspace.

Step-by-Step Battery Replacement

Follow these simple steps to replace your AirTag battery:

Locate the Battery Compartment: The battery is located on the underside of the AirTag, opposite the side with the Apple logo.
Press and Twist the Cover: Take your AirTag and place it on a flat surface with the battery cover facing up. You’ll see a shiny metal cover. Using your thumb and index finger, press down firmly on the metal cover, and then twist it counter-clockwise. You’ll need to apply steady pressure. It might feel a bit stiff at first.
Remove the Old Battery: Once the cover is loose, you can lift it off. The old CR2032 battery will be visible inside. It might pop out slightly. You can gently tip the AirTag or use a fingernail to remove the old battery.
Insert the New Battery: Take your new CR2032 battery. Note that the positive side (+) of the battery should be facing upwards (towards you). Align the new battery and place it into the compartment.
Replace the Battery Cover: Carefully place the metal battery cover back onto the AirTag. Make sure it’s properly aligned.
Secure the Cover: Just like when you removed it, you’ll need to press down firmly on the cover and twist it clockwise until it stops. You should feel it lock into place.
Listen for a Sound: Once the cover is secured, your AirTag should make a small chime or sound. This confirms that the new battery is installed correctly and the AirTag has powered back on.

Important Safety Tips for Battery Replacement

While changing an AirTag battery is straightforward, there are a few crucial safety pointers to keep in mind:

Keep Batteries Away from Children and Pets: CR2032 batteries can be dangerous if swallowed. Always dispose of old batteries safely and keep new ones out of reach until you’re ready to use them.
Use the Correct Battery Type: Always use a CR2032 battery. Using a different type could damage your AirTag or pose a safety risk.
Handle Batteries with Care: Avoid short-circuiting batteries by keeping them away from metal objects and not letting the positive and negative terminals touch anything other than the AirTag’s contacts.
Do Not Ingest: Lithium coin cell batteries are hazardous if swallowed. Seek immediate medical attention if ingestion is suspected.
Proper Disposal: Dispose of old batteries responsibly. Many retailers and local recycling centers offer battery recycling programs. Check with your local authorities for proper disposal guidelines.

Troubleshooting Common AirTag Battery Issues

Most of the time, replacing an AirTag battery is seamless. However, sometimes you might run into a small snag. Here’s how to handle them.

AirTag Not Making a Sound After Battery Change

If you’ve replaced the battery and don’t hear the startup chime, don’t worry, it’s usually a simple fix:

Check Battery Orientation: Double-check that the new CR2032 battery is inserted with the positive side (+) facing upwards.
Ensure Proper Contact: Make sure the battery is seated firmly in its compartment and making good contact with the metal ring around it.
Clean Contacts: Gently wipe the battery contacts inside the AirTag and the battery itself with a clean, dry cloth.
Re-secure the Cover: Remove the cover and reapply it, ensuring you press down firmly and twist until it clicks securely into place. Sometimes it just needs a good twist to engage properly.
Try Another Battery: It’s rare, but occasionally a new battery can be faulty. Try a different, brand-new CR2032 battery.

AirTag Still Not Showing Up in Find My

If the AirTag still doesn’t appear in your Find My app after a successful battery replacement and startup sound:

Restart Your iPhone: Sometimes, your iPhone needs a refresh to recognize new devices. Try restarting your phone and then checking the Find My app again.
Forget and Re-add: If it was previously paired, you might need to forget the AirTag from your Apple ID and then set it up again as if it were new. You can do this in the Find My app by tapping on the AirTag, scrolling down, and selecting “Remove Item.”
Check for Interference: Ensure your iPhone is within Bluetooth range of the AirTag. Strong magnetic fields or very dense materials can sometimes interfere with initial connection.

Battery Draining Too Quickly

If you find your AirTag battery consistently dying much faster than the expected year:

Consistently Poor Signal: If your AirTag is constantly in an area with a very weak Bluetooth signal or an area where it has to “shout” to be found, it may use more power.
Environmental Factors: Extreme temperatures (very hot or very cold) can sometimes affect battery performance.
Faulty AirTag: In very rare cases, the AirTag itself might have an internal issue causing it to drain the battery prematurely. If this is a recurring problem with multiple new batteries, you might consider contacting Apple Support.

Choosing the Right CR2032 Batteries

While most CR2032 batteries will work, there are a few things to consider when buying replacements to ensure optimal performance and safety.

Brand Name vs. Generic

You’ll find both well-known brands like Energizer, Duracell, and Panasonic, as well as many generic or store-brand options. Brand-name batteries often come with a reputation for reliability and consistent performance. Generic brands can be cheaper, but their lifespan and quality might be more variable. For something as important as keeping tags on your valuable items, investing in a reputable brand is often a wise choice, though good quality generics are usually fine.

Battery Capacity and Quality

CR2032 batteries have a standard capacity, but slight variations can exist. Look for batteries that specify performance and expiry dates. Higher-quality batteries may offer a more stable voltage output, which is better for your electronics over time.

Where to Buy

You can find CR2032 batteries at a wide range of retailers:

Supermarkets and Grocery Stores: Often found in the health and beauty or electronics aisles.
Drugstores and Pharmacies: Typically in the same sections as batteries for other small devices.
Electronics Stores: Such as Best Buy or similar local shops.
Big Box Stores: Like Walmart or Target.
Online Retailers: Amazon, eBay, and others offer multi-packs, which can be cost-effective.

When buying online, particularly from less familiar sellers, be mindful of the authenticity and freshness of the batteries. Buying multi-packs can be cost-effective, but make sure you have a place to store them properly (cool, dry place) until you need them.

AirTag Batteries vs. Other Battery Types (Comparison)

It’s helpful to see how the CR2032 battery in your AirTag compares to other common battery types, many of which you might also encounter as Roy Walker, your battery guide!

As you can see, the CR2032 is uniquely suited for the AirTag due to its small size, sufficient power, and longevity for a low-drain device. It’s very different from the high-power demands of a car battery or the rechargeable nature of a phone battery.

Frequently Asked Questions About AirTag Batteries

Here are some common questions folks have about their AirTag batteries:

Q1: Can I use a rechargeable battery in my AirTag?

A1: No, Apple specifically designed AirTags to use standard, non-rechargeable CR2032 lithium coin cell batteries. Rechargeable CR2032 batteries exist, but they may not provide consistent voltage or the longevity needed for an AirTag, and they could potentially cause issues. It’s best to stick with the standard disposable type.

Q2: How many batteries come in a pack?

A2: CR2032 batteries are sold in various pack sizes, typically ranging from single packs to packs of 10 or 20. You can buy them individually at convenience stores or in larger, more economical packs from online retailers or electronics stores.

Q3: Where can I safely dispose of old AirTag batteries?

A3: Do not throw old lithium coin cell batteries in your regular trash. They should be disposed of responsibly. Many electronics stores, supermarkets, and local waste disposal or recycling centers offer battery drop-off points. Check with your local municipality for guidance on battery recycling in your area.

Q4: Does the battery type affect my AirTag’s range?

A4: No, as long as you are using a genuine CR2032 battery with sufficient charge, the type of CR2032 (e.g., brand name vs. generic, as long as it’s a quality battery) shouldn’t noticeably affect your AirTag’s range. The range is primarily determined by Bluetooth technology and the surrounding environment.

Q5: Can I use a CR2032 battery from a car key fob in my AirTag?

A5: Yes, if the battery from your car key fob is indeed a CR2032, you can use it in your AirTag, provided it’s still relatively new and has plenty of life left. Likewise, you can use an old AirTag CR2032 (if it still has charge) in a car key fob. They are interchangeable.

Q6: What does the “bitter coating” on some CR2032 batteries mean?

A6: Some manufacturers add a bitter-tasting coating to CR2032 batteries to deter accidental ingestion by children. This coating does not affect the battery’s performance in an AirTag or any other device. If you encounter a battery with this coating, it’s still perfectly safe to use, but you might notice a slight taste if you touch the battery and then your tongue (though this is not recommended!).

Conclusion

You’ve now got the complete rundown on batteries for your Apple AirTags! We’ve covered the type of battery you need – the common CR2032 – and why it’s a great choice. You know how to spot when your AirTag needs a new battery, whether it’s through iPhone notifications or