AirTags don't charge — they use replaceable batteries instead

An AirTag is Apple's tracking device, about the size of a coin, that you attach to keys, bags, or wallets to find them if they go missing. Unlike most small electronics, an AirTag does not have a charging port or cable. Instead, it uses a standard CR2032 coin battery that you replace when it runs out, similar to the battery in a watch or car key fob.

The battery typically lasts about one year with normal use. When the battery gets low, your iPhone will send you a notification telling you it's time to replace it. At that point, you open the AirTag, remove the old battery, and drop in a new one — the whole process takes about 30 seconds.

This design means you never need to plug an AirTag into power or worry about it losing charge during travel. You just keep spare CR2032 batteries on hand and swap them out once a year.

Key Takeaways

  • AirTags use a replaceable CR2032 coin battery that lasts about one year and cannot be recharged.
  • Your iPhone sends a low battery notification when replacement is needed, so you know exactly when to change it.
  • Opening an AirTag and replacing the battery takes less than a minute and requires no tools.
  • CR2032 batteries cost between $3 and $8 for a pack and are sold at most pharmacies, grocery stores, and online retailers.

How to replace the battery in your AirTag

Start by holding the AirTag with the polished metal side facing up. You'll see a small notch or seam around the edge where the two halves meet. Place your thumb on the metal back and push upward — the white plastic ring will pop off. Don't force it; a firm, steady push is enough.

Once the ring is off, you'll see the battery sitting in a small circular holder. The battery has a flat side and a domed side. Lift out the old battery by pressing gently on the domed side and tilting it up. Drop the new CR2032 battery in with the flat side facing down and the domed side facing up — this is the only way it fits correctly.

Snap the white ring back onto the metal case by pressing down until you hear or feel a click. The AirTag is now ready to use. Your iPhone will recognize the new battery within a few seconds and the low battery notification will disappear.

Where to buy replacement CR2032 batteries

CR2032 batteries are one of the most common battery types and are stocked almost everywhere. You can find them at pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens, grocery stores, hardware stores like Home Depot, and online at Amazon. A single battery costs between $1 and $3, though buying a pack of four or eight is usually cheaper per battery.

Look for the label "CR2032" or "2032" on the package — this is the only size that works in an AirTag. Some packages say "lithium" or "3V" as well, which is fine. Avoid alkaline 2032 batteries if you see them; they don't last as long in AirTags.

If you use multiple AirTags, buying a larger pack makes sense since you'll replace batteries regularly. A pack of eight batteries typically costs $5 to $10 and will cover replacements for several AirTags over a couple of years.

Signs your AirTag battery is running low

Your iPhone is the main way you'll know the battery is dying. When the battery gets low, you'll see a notification on your phone that says something like "AirTag battery low" or "Replace battery." This notification appears in the Find My app and sometimes as a system alert.

You can also check the battery status manually by opening the Find My app, tapping the Items tab, selecting your AirTag, and looking at the battery level shown there. If it says "Low," replacement is due soon. An AirTag will continue to work for a short time after the low battery warning, but you should replace it within a week or two to avoid it stopping unexpectedly.

What happens if you ignore the low battery warning

If you don't replace the battery after receiving a low battery notification, the AirTag will eventually stop working completely. Once the battery is fully dead, the AirTag cannot send its location to your iPhone or receive any signals. It becomes a useless piece of plastic until you put in a new battery.

This is why the notification system is helpful — it gives you a window of time to grab a new battery before the AirTag stops functioning. If you travel frequently or rely on an AirTag to track something important, it's worth keeping a spare CR2032 battery in your bag or car so you can replace it when ready if needed.

Extending battery life in your AirTag

The battery life of an AirTag depends partly on how often it's used. If you keep an AirTag on your keys and use it to find your keys several times a week, the battery will last close to a full year. If you rarely use the Find My feature, the battery may last longer — sometimes 18 months or more.

The main factor is how often the AirTag is actively searching or being searched for. Leaving an AirTag in a drawer and never looking for it will drain the battery more slowly than carrying one on your person and using it regularly. There's no setting to adjust battery drain or put an AirTag into a low-power mode, so the best approach is straightforward to replace the battery when you get the notification.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I recharge an AirTag battery instead of replacing it?

No. AirTags use a standard CR2032 coin battery that is not rechargeable. There is no charging port on an AirTag and no way to recharge the battery. You must replace it with a new CR2032 battery when it runs out.

What if I put the battery in backwards?

If you insert the battery with the domed side facing down instead of up, the AirTag won't work and your iPhone won't recognize it. straightforward pop off the ring again, flip the battery over so the flat side faces down, and snap the ring back on. The AirTag will then work normally.

Is it safe to replace the battery myself?

Yes, replacing the battery is completely safe and requires no tools. The process is designed for anyone to do it. There are no small screws, no glue, and no risk of damaging the AirTag as long as you don't force the ring off or drop the battery.

How long does a CR2032 battery last once it's installed?

A CR2032 battery in an AirTag typically lasts about one year with normal use. The exact length depends on how often you search for the AirTag and how frequently it's in range of your iPhone or other Apple devices. Your phone will notify you when replacement is needed.

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

No. An AirTag is designed to work only with a CR2032 battery. Other battery sizes and types will not fit or function. Always look for the CR2032 label when buying replacement batteries.