You can replace an AirTag battery yourself in about 30 seconds

An AirTag uses a standard CR2032 coin-cell battery that you can buy at any drugstore or online. When the battery dies, you don't need to replace the whole device — just swap out the battery. The process takes less than a minute and requires no tools.

Your iPhone will send you a notification when the battery is running low, usually giving you a few weeks' warning before it dies completely. Once you get that alert, you can pick up a replacement battery and change it whenever you have a moment.

Key Takeaways

  • AirTags use CR2032 batteries, which cost $3 to $8 and are sold at pharmacies, grocery stores, and online retailers.
  • Your iPhone notifies you when the battery is low, so you have time to buy a replacement before it stops working.
  • The battery compartment is on the back of the AirTag and opens by pressing and twisting the metal ring counterclockwise.
  • A new battery typically lasts about one year of normal use before needing replacement.

What you need to buy

You need a CR2032 battery — that's the only part. You don't need a screwdriver, a special tool, or anything else. CR2032 batteries are sold everywhere: CVS, Walgreens, Target, Walmart, Amazon, and most grocery stores in the pharmacy section. A single battery costs between $3 and $8 depending on the brand and where you buy it.

You can buy a pack of multiple batteries if you have several AirTags or other devices that use them. Duracell, Energizer, and store brands all work the same way. Avoid extremely cheap batteries from unknown sellers online — they may not last as long or hold a charge properly.

How to open the battery compartment

Hold the AirTag in one hand with the white plastic side facing you. On the back (the metal side), you'll see a metal ring around the edge. Press down on this ring with your thumb and twist it counterclockwise — the same direction you'd turn to loosen a jar lid. It takes about a quarter turn before the ring pops off.

The white plastic disc inside will come loose once the ring is off. You can now see the battery sitting in the center. The battery has a shiny side facing up and a flat side facing down.

Removing the old battery and installing the new one

Lift out the old battery by pinching the edge and pulling it toward you. It should come out easily. If it's stuck, try tilting the AirTag slightly so gravity helps, or use your fingernail to gently pry the edge.

Take your new CR2032 battery and check which side is which: the shiny, raised side is the positive end, and the flat side is the negative end. Drop the new battery into the compartment with the shiny side facing up, exactly like the old one was positioned. The battery should sit flat and not stick up above the edge of the compartment.

Closing the AirTag back up

Place the white plastic disc back into the AirTag on top of the battery. It should sit flush with the metal ring. Now take the metal ring and align it with the grooves on the back of the AirTag. Press down and twist clockwise (the opposite direction from when you opened it) until you hear or feel a click. The ring should be snug but you don't need to force it.

Your AirTag is now ready to use. Your iPhone will recognize the new battery within a few seconds and the low battery notification will disappear from your phone.

How long a battery lasts

A CR2032 battery in an AirTag typically lasts about one year with normal use. If you use the AirTag heavily — checking its location multiple times a day or using the sound feature frequently — the battery may drain faster and last 8 to 10 months. If you use it lightly, it might last closer to 18 months.

You'll get a low battery warning on your iPhone about two to three weeks before the battery completely dies, so you have plenty of time to buy a replacement before the AirTag stops working.

What to do if the battery won't come out

If the old battery is stuck and won't budge, try tilting the AirTag at different angles to see if gravity helps it shift. You can also try using a plastic spoon or the edge of a credit card to gently pry under the battery edge — avoid metal tools that could scratch the inside. If the battery is truly stuck, let it sit for a few hours; sometimes a stuck battery will loosen on its own.

In rare cases, the battery compartment itself can get stuck. If the metal ring won't twist or the plastic disc won't come out after the ring is off, stop trying to force it. Contact Apple Support or visit an Apple Store — they can open it without damaging the AirTag.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of battery instead of CR2032?

No. AirTags are designed specifically for CR2032 batteries. Other coin-cell batteries like CR2025 or CR2016 are physically different sizes and won't fit properly or work correctly. Always use CR2032.

What happens if I put the battery in backwards?

The AirTag won't work if the battery is reversed. The positive side (shiny) must face up. If you close it up and your AirTag doesn't respond, open it back up and flip the battery over. It's an straightforward fix.

Do I need to reset my AirTag after changing the battery?

No. Your AirTag will work when ready with the new battery. Your iPhone will recognize it within seconds and the low battery warning will clear. You don't need to unpair it, reset it, or do anything else.

Where's the cheapest place to buy CR2032 batteries?

Prices vary, but drugstore chains often charge $5 to $8 for a single battery. Buying a multi-pack online or at warehouse stores like Costco is usually cheaper per battery. Amazon and Walmart often have competitive prices if you're buying multiple batteries at once.