Apple AirTags don't need to be charged — they use replaceable batteries instead

An Apple AirTag runs on a standard CR2032 coin cell battery, the same type you find in watches, calculators, and car key fobs. You don't plug it in or place it on a charger. When the battery runs low, you simply open the back of the AirTag and swap in a fresh CR2032 battery, which takes about 10 seconds.

The battery typically lasts around one year of normal use. Apple sends you a notification on your iPhone when the battery is getting low, usually a few weeks before it dies completely. This gives you time to pick up a replacement battery before your AirTag stops working.

Key Takeaways

  • AirTags use a CR2032 coin cell battery that you replace yourself, not a rechargeable battery you plug in.
  • A single battery lasts about one year with typical daily use.
  • Your iPhone alerts you when the battery is low, giving you time to buy a replacement.
  • CR2032 batteries cost between $3 and $8 for a pack and are sold at most drugstores, supermarkets, and online retailers.
  • Replacing the battery takes less than a minute and requires no tools.

How to replace the battery yourself

Open the AirTag by pressing down on the stainless steel back cover and twisting it counterclockwise until it stops. The cover will pop off, and you'll see the CR2032 battery sitting in a small metal holder. Lift out the old battery and drop in a new one with the positive side facing up (the side with the "+" symbol should face toward you). Press the cover back on and twist it clockwise until it clicks.

That's the entire process. You don't need a screwdriver, a special tool, or any technical knowledge. If the cover is stuck, try wrapping a thin cloth around it for better grip, or run it under warm water for a few seconds to loosen any dirt or debris.

Where to buy replacement batteries

CR2032 batteries are one of the most common battery types in the world, so you can find them almost anywhere. Check the battery aisle at CVS, Walgreens, Target, Walmart, or your local grocery store. A pack of two or four batteries usually costs $3 to $8. You can also order them online from Amazon, Best Buy, or any pharmacy website.

Buy a pack rather than a single battery — they're inexpensive, and having spares on hand means you won't be caught without a working AirTag when the battery dies. Many people keep a pack in a drawer at home for all their devices that use coin cell batteries.

Why AirTags use replaceable batteries instead of rechargeable ones

Apple chose a replaceable battery design because it keeps the AirTag small, lightweight, and waterproof. A rechargeable battery would require a charging port, which would create a weak point where water could get inside. The AirTag is rated IP67 water-resistant, meaning it can survive being submerged in up to 1 meter of water for 30 minutes — something a rechargeable design couldn't may provide.

The one-year battery life also means you're not tethered to a charger. You can throw an AirTag in your bag or attach it to your keys and forget about it for months. When the battery finally runs out, you spend 30 seconds replacing it instead of hunting for a charging cable.

What happens when the battery dies

When a CR2032 battery is completely dead, the AirTag stops broadcasting its location. You won't be able to find it using the Find My app, and it won't respond to sound alerts. However, the AirTag itself isn't broken — it will work perfectly again the moment you install a fresh battery.

If you lose track of an AirTag before the battery dies, you can still locate it using Find My as long as other Apple devices are nearby. Once the battery is dead, the AirTag becomes invisible to the network until you replace the battery and it powers back on.

How battery life varies by usage

Apple's one-year estimate assumes typical daily use, which means the AirTag is broadcasting its location regularly but not constantly. If you use Find My frequently, play sound alerts often, or have the AirTag in a location with poor Bluetooth range (forcing it to work harder), the battery may drain faster — possibly in 8 to 10 months instead of a full year.

On the other hand, if your AirTag sits in a drawer most of the time and you rarely check its location, the battery could last longer than a year. The battery percentage shown in the Find My app gives you a more accurate picture of how much life remains in your specific AirTag.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No, the AirTag is designed specifically for CR2032 batteries. Using a different size or type of battery could damage the device or cause it to malfunction. Stick with CR2032 replacements.

What should I do with the old battery?

Most retailers that sell batteries also accept old batteries for recycling. Take your used CR2032 to a Best Buy, Home Depot, or local electronics store — many have battery recycling bins near the checkout. Never throw batteries in the trash.

Will my AirTag still work if I ignore the low battery warning?

Yes, it will continue working for a few more weeks after the warning appears. The notification gives you a buffer so you can buy a replacement before the battery completely dies. Once it's fully dead, the AirTag won't work until you replace the battery.

Is there a way to extend battery life?

Not really. The battery life is determined by the CR2032's capacity and how often the AirTag broadcasts. You can't change settings to make it last longer without reducing how often you can locate it. Just plan on replacing the battery once a year.

Can I buy batteries in bulk to save money?

Yes, buying larger packs (like 10 or 20 batteries) usually costs less per battery than buying a small pack of two. If you have multiple AirTags or other devices that use CR2032 batteries, buying in bulk makes sense. Store them in a cool, dry place — they last for years before use.