Free Guide to Replacing AirTag Batteries

Understanding AirTag Battery Basics

Apple AirTags use a standard CR2032 coin cell battery, the same type found in many household devices like calculators, watches, and car key fobs. This battery measures about 20 millimeters in diameter and 3.2 millimeters thick, making it small enough to fit inside the AirTag's compact circular design. The CR2032 battery provides power to the AirTag's Bluetooth radio, which communicates with nearby Apple devices to help locate your belongings.

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A single CR2032 battery typically lasts about one year in an AirTag under normal usage conditions. The lifespan depends on several factors, including how frequently the AirTag transmits location data, environmental temperature, and whether the device receives regular use. Apple estimates that most users will replace their AirTag battery annually, though some may find their battery lasts slightly longer or shorter depending on usage patterns.

You'll know your AirTag battery needs replacement when you receive a low battery notification on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac. The device will send you an alert stating that the battery is low and should be replaced soon. Even after receiving this notification, the AirTag will continue to function for a period of time, but replacement within a few weeks is recommended to maintain reliable tracking functionality.

CR2032 batteries are inexpensive and widely available. You can purchase them at drugstores, electronics retailers, grocery stores, and online marketplaces for typically between $3 and $10 for a pack of multiple batteries. The actual cost per battery is often lower when buying in bulk. Purchasing batteries in advance means you'll have one ready when your AirTag's battery runs low, preventing any gaps in tracking capability.

Practical Takeaway: Stock CR2032 batteries at home so you have one ready when your AirTag alerts you to a low battery. Buying in bulk reduces per-unit costs and ensures you won't experience tracking interruptions.

Step-by-Step Battery Replacement Process

Replacing an AirTag battery is straightforward and requires no special tools or technical knowledge. The process takes less than one minute from start to finish. Begin by locating the white plastic back cover of your AirTag. This cover has a small indentation or gap around its edge that serves as a grip point for removal.

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To open the AirTag, hold the device with the white side facing up. Place your thumbs on the edges where you see the small gap, and press downward with steady pressure while twisting the white cover counterclockwise. You don't need to apply excessive force—gentle, consistent pressure will cause the cover to rotate and release from the metal base. Once loose, continue rotating until the white cover separates completely from the stainless steel casing.

With the cover removed, you'll see the CR2032 battery inside. The battery sits in a small compartment and is held in place by the casing itself. Gently push the old battery out from underneath or carefully pry it loose using a fingernail or a plastic tool. Avoid using sharp metal objects that could scratch the interior or damage components. The battery should come out with minimal effort.

Before inserting the new battery, check that you're using the correct type—CR2032. Examine the replacement battery to identify the positive and negative sides. The positive side (marked with a plus sign or appearing shinier) should face upward toward the white cover when installed. Insert the new battery into the compartment with the positive side up, ensuring it sits flat in the battery holder.

Finally, align the white cover with the metal base and press downward while rotating the cover clockwise. You'll feel a slight resistance, and the cover should snap back into place with a click. Your AirTag will automatically register the new battery and clear the low battery notification from your device within a few minutes. Test the connection by opening the Find My app to confirm the AirTag is responding normally.

Practical Takeaway: The entire replacement process takes less than a minute. Remember to orient the battery with the positive side facing upward, and rotate the cover clockwise to secure it in place.

Common Mistakes to Avoid During Replacement

Many people encounter minor issues when replacing their AirTag batteries, though most stem from preventable mistakes. One of the most frequent errors is installing the battery backwards. If you insert the CR2032 with the negative side facing up (the duller side), the battery won't make proper electrical contact and your AirTag won't function. If your AirTag doesn't respond after replacement, remove the cover, flip the battery over, and reinstall it with the positive side up.

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Another common mistake is over-tightening the white cover when replacing it. Some people twist the cover with excessive force, thinking a tighter seal provides better protection. This can crack the plastic cover or damage the internal mechanism that keeps the cover securely attached. Apply firm, steady pressure and rotate the cover until you feel resistance and hear a click—that indicates proper seating. Forcing it further risks damage that may require replacing the entire AirTag.

Using the wrong battery type is another avoidable error. While CR2032 is the correct battery for AirTags, similar-looking batteries like CR2025 or CR2016 may appear interchangeable but have different thicknesses and power capacities. These substitutes won't function correctly in an AirTag and may not fit properly. Always verify the battery package clearly states CR2032 before purchasing or installing.

Some people accidentally touch the battery contacts (the flat metal surfaces on the top and bottom) excessively during installation. While your fingers won't permanently damage the battery, oils and residue can slightly reduce electrical conductivity. Minimize touching the contact surfaces by handling the battery around its edges. If you do touch the contacts, a quick wipe with a clean, dry cloth removes any residue.

Additionally, failing to remove the old battery completely before inserting a new one can prevent the new battery from making proper contact. Always ensure the old battery is fully removed and the compartment is clear. If you have difficulty removing an old battery, try rotating the AirTag slightly or using a plastic tool rather than forcing it with a metal object.

Practical Takeaway: Check battery orientation (positive side up), avoid over-tightening the cover, use only CR2032 batteries, and fully remove the old battery before installing the new one.

Where to Purchase Replacement Batteries

CR2032 batteries are among the most commonly stocked battery types worldwide, making them easy to find through multiple retail channels. Local pharmacy chains like CVS and Walgreens typically carry them in their battery sections, usually near checkout areas or in the health and wellness aisles. Prices at these retailers often range from $4 to $8 per battery, though bulk packs of four to eight batteries offer better value per unit.

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Big-box retailers like Walmart, Target, and Costco stock CR2032 batteries at competitive prices. Walmart and Target generally offer single batteries and variety packs, with bulk options providing the lowest per-battery cost. Costco membership holders can purchase large quantity packs, which work well if you have multiple AirTags or other devices using this battery type. Prices at these retailers typically fall between $3 and $6 per battery when buying in quantity.

Online retailers provide convenience and often the lowest per-unit pricing, especially for bulk purchases. Amazon, eBay, and specialty electronics retailers like Newegg offer extensive CR2032 battery selections. You can find packs ranging from 2 batteries to 50 or more, with per-battery costs as low as $0.50 to $1.50 in large bulk orders. Online shopping allows you to compare brands, read customer reviews, and often includes free shipping for larger orders.

Electronics specialty stores like Best Buy stock CR2032 batteries and often have them readily available for immediate purchase without shipping delays. Their staff can help verify you're purchasing the correct battery type if you're uncertain. Gas stations and convenience stores often carry single batteries at higher per-unit prices, making them suitable for emergency replacements but not ideal for planned purchases.

When selecting a brand, major manufacturers like Energizer, Duracell, and Panasonic offer reliable performance. Store brands from retailers like Walmart and Target perform comparably at lower prices. For AirTag use specifically, you don't need premium or specialized battery types—standard CR2032 batteries from any reputable manufacturer work equally well. Reading customer reviews