AirTags use a standard CR2032 coin battery that you can replace yourself in about one minute, with no tools needed

An AirTag's battery lasts roughly one year under normal use. When the battery runs low, your iPhone will send you a notification. You do not need to visit an Apple Store or buy a new AirTag — you can swap in a fresh CR2032 battery (the same type used in watches, calculators, and car key fobs) for about $3 to $8 at any pharmacy, grocery store, or online retailer.

The entire process takes less than a minute. You twist the stainless steel back of the AirTag counterclockwise until it comes loose, remove the old battery, drop in the new one with the positive side facing up, and twist the back on again. That is all there is to it.

Key Takeaways

  • AirTag batteries last about one year and send you a notification when they are running low.
  • You need only a CR2032 coin battery, which costs $3 to $8 and is sold at pharmacies, grocery stores, and online.
  • Remove the stainless steel back by twisting it counterclockwise by hand — no tools or special equipment required.
  • Insert the new battery with the positive (+) side facing up, then twist the back on clockwise until snug.

Where to buy a CR2032 battery

CR2032 batteries are common and widely available. You can find them at CVS, Walgreens, Target, Walmart, Best Buy, and most grocery stores in the battery aisle. A single battery usually costs $3 to $5 in a physical store. Online, Amazon and other retailers sell them in packs of 4 or more for $5 to $8 total, which brings the per-battery cost down if you own multiple AirTags or other devices that use the same battery type.

When you buy, look for the label "CR2032" — that is the only size that fits. Some packages say "DL2032" or "ECR2032," which are the same battery under different brand names and will work fine. Avoid buying the cheapest option if the seller has no reviews; counterfeit batteries exist and may not last as long or hold a charge properly.

How to open the AirTag and remove the old battery

Hold the AirTag in one hand with the stainless steel back facing up. Place your thumb on the back and your fingers underneath the plastic front, then twist the back counterclockwise (the same direction you would unscrew a jar lid). You will feel it loosen after a quarter turn or so.

Once the back is loose enough, lift it off completely. You will see the old CR2032 battery sitting in a small metal cup. It may have a thin plastic tab sticking out from underneath — this is normal and helps keep the battery from draining while the AirTag sits in a store. Gently pry the battery out with your fingernail or the edge of a coin if it is stuck. Do not force it; a gentle wiggle usually does the job.

Installing the new battery

Take your new CR2032 battery and look at both sides. One side has a + symbol printed on it (the positive terminal) and the other is blank (the negative terminal). Hold the battery so the + side is facing up, toward the top of the AirTag.

Drop the battery into the metal cup. It should sit flat and snug. If it feels loose or tilted, remove it and try again — the battery should rest level in the cup with no rocking. Once it is seated properly, twist the stainless steel back onto the AirTag clockwise (the same direction you would screw a jar lid shut) until it is snug. Do not over-tighten; you will feel it catch and hold without needing force.

What to do if the back is stuck

Occasionally the back becomes difficult to turn, especially if the AirTag has been in a pocket or bag for a long time. If twisting by hand does not work, wrap a rubber band around the back a few times to improve your grip, then try again. The extra friction usually gives you enough leverage to break it loose.

If the rubber band does not help, try holding the AirTag under warm (not hot) running water for 10 to 15 seconds. This can help loosen any debris or corrosion around the threads. Dry it thoroughly with a cloth before opening. If the back still will not budge, contact Apple Support — forcing it risks cracking the plastic front or damaging the threads.

How to know if your new battery is working

After you close the AirTag, your iPhone should recognize it within a few seconds. Open the Find My app, tap the Items tab, and select your AirTag. If the battery notification disappears and the AirTag shows as "Connected," the new battery is working. If the notification persists or the AirTag shows as "No Location Found," remove the back again and check that the battery is seated flat in the cup with the + side facing up.

Some older iPhones may take a minute or two to register the new battery. If you still see a low battery warning after five minutes, try disconnecting and reconnecting the AirTag in the Find My app: tap the AirTag, scroll down, tap "Remove Item," then add it again by tapping the + button and scanning the setup code on the back.

Disposing of the old battery safely

Do not throw the old CR2032 battery in the trash. Most pharmacies and retailers that sell batteries also accept used batteries for recycling at no cost — ask at the customer service desk. Best Buy, Home Depot, and Lowe's all have battery recycling programs. You can also search for a local battery recycling location at Call2Recycle.org by entering your zip code.

If you have multiple old batteries, store them in a cool, dry place away from metal objects (which could cause them to short-circuit) until you can drop them off. Keep them away from children and pets.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different battery size in my AirTag?

No. AirTag is designed for CR2032 batteries only. Other sizes will not fit or may damage the device. Stick with CR2032, DL2032, or ECR2032 — these are all the same battery sold under different brand names.

How long does a new battery last?

A CR2032 battery in an AirTag typically lasts about one year under normal use. Heavy use — such as checking the Find My app constantly or using the speaker feature frequently — may shorten battery life to 8 to 10 months. Light use may extend it slightly longer.

What if I put the battery in upside down?

The AirTag will not work if the battery is installed with the negative side facing up. You will not damage the AirTag, but it will not connect to your iPhone. straightforward open the back again, flip the battery so the + side faces up, and close it. The AirTag should work when ready.

Is it safe to replace the battery myself?

Yes. The CR2032 battery is small and poses no shock or burn risk during replacement. The only precaution is to keep the battery away from children and pets, and to avoid dropping it or exposing it to extreme heat. If you have any concerns, Apple will replace the battery for you, though there may be a small service fee.

Can I buy rechargeable CR2032 batteries for my AirTag?

Rechargeable CR2032 batteries exist, but Apple does not recommend them for AirTags. Rechargeable versions typically have a lower voltage than standard CR2032 batteries and may not provide enough power to keep the AirTag connected reliably. Stick with standard single-use CR2032 batteries for the best performance.