Look, you’re probably here because you recently received an iPhone notification that the battery for your AirTag is running low. Or, maybe you purchased a refurbished version of Apple’s tracking device and want to make sure it has plenty of juice to last for a while. Either way, I’m here to assure you that replacing an AirTag battery is simple. The whole process should take only a couple of minutes.
How often do you need to replace it? After activating a brand-new AirTag, you can expect to replace that first battery in about a year. The timing of subsequent replacements really depends on the quality of the batteries you purchase, as well as how much you use the tracker. Unlike the iPhone or Apple Watch, the battery in an AirTag is not rechargeable and needs to be swapped out when it dies.
Thankfully, you don’t have to buy some special battery from Apple. Most lithium CR2032 coin batteries will work just fine. These are the same 3-volt batteries that commonly slot into wristwatches, kitchen thermometers, and other small electronics. A four-pack of the batteries costs around $6 on Amazon.
Just know that some of these CR2032 batteries have been treated with a bitter coating to discourage children from swallowing them. Not all of those bitter-tasting batteries will work with AirTags, so if yours has this coating, make sure to double-check the packaging to see if it’s compatible. The coated batteries that do work will clearly say “Compatible With Apple AirTag” on the package.
Swap It Out
Now that you have a new battery for your AirTag, removing the old battery and adding in the fresh one is simple. Follow these steps:
- Flip the AirTag so the silver side with the Apple logo is facing you.
- Use your fingertips to press down and rotate the silver piece about a quarter turn counterclockwise. The silver lid should disconnect and loosen.
- Remove the silver piece, and now you should be able to pop out the old battery.
- Place the new CR2032 battery in the empty slot, with the “+” sign facing you.
- Put the silver piece back on top, press down, and rotate it clockwise until the cover locks into place.
- Done. But don’t throw that old battery in the trash. Recycle it either through Apple or a reputable e-waste service.
Would you rather have a rechargeable tracker on your keyring or attached to your pet? While the AirTag is WIRED’s recommended tracker for iOS devices, the Pebblebee might be worth checking out for a tracker where you can use a USB-C cord to charge it and avoid changing those pesky little battery cells.