Introduction

Apple’s AirTag is a powerful Bluetooth tracker designed to help you locate your most important belongings—like keys, wallets, bags, or luggage. Lightweight, compact, and part of Apple’s Find My ecosystem, it’s a favourite among Apple users. But like all battery-powered devices, AirTags need occasional attention—especially when the battery runs low.

In this guide, we’ll cover:

• What an AirTag is and how it works
• Which battery it uses
• How long the AirTag battery lasts
• How to replace it
• Tips to extend battery life
• Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Whether you’re considering buying one or already own several, this complete guide will help you keep your AirTags working at their best.

What Is an Apple AirTag?

The Apple AirTag is a small, button-shaped tracking device released by Apple in 2021. It helps users locate lost items using Apple’s Find My app. You simply attach it to your keys, backpack, bike, or anything else you want to keep track of.

AirTags work by connecting to nearby Apple devices via Bluetooth. These devices then anonymously send location data to the Find My network, allowing you to locate your lost item on a map. If you’re close to the item, your iPhone can even guide you with Precision Finding using Ultra-Wideband (UWB) technology.

What Type of Battery Does an AirTag Use?

Apple AirTags use a standard CR2032 coin cell battery. This is a widely available, affordable battery commonly found in watches, car remotes, and other small electronics.

Key Specs:

• Battery type: CR2032 lithium coin cell
• Battery life: Up to 1 year
• User-replaceable: Yes
• Voltage: 3 volts

Important Note: Avoid CR2032 batteries with a bitterant coating (often used to deter children from swallowing them), as they may interfere with battery contacts inside the AirTag.

How Long Does the AirTag Battery Last?

Apple estimates that the AirTag battery lasts approximately one year under typical usage. This includes regular Bluetooth activity, occasional sound alerts, and lost item tracking.

While Apple doesn’t show the exact battery percentage in the Find My app, it does provide a low battery notification when the battery is nearing the end of its life.

You’ll usually get several weeks of warning before the battery dies completely.

How to Replace an AirTag Battery

Replacing the AirTag battery is quick and easy. You don’t need any tools—just your fingers and a fresh CR2032 battery.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

• Hold the AirTag with the white side facing down and the stainless-steel battery cover facing up.
• Press down on the metal cover and twist it counterclockwise until it stops.
• Remove the cover and take out the old battery.
• Insert the new CR2032 battery with the positive side (+) facing up.
• When the battery connects properly, you’ll hear a chime sound.
• Re-align the cover and twist it clockwise to lock it back in place.

That’s it! Your AirTag should now be fully functional again.

How to Check Your AirTag’s Battery Level

To see if your AirTag battery is still healthy:

• Open the Find My app on your iPhone.
• Tap the Items tab.
• Select your AirTag from the list.
• If the battery is low, you’ll see a low battery warning below the AirTag name.

There’s no detailed percentage, but this warning is enough to plan for a replacement.

Tips to Make Your AirTag Battery Last Longer

Want to extend the life of your AirTag’s battery? Try these best practices:

• Avoid unnecessary sound alerts. Playing the AirTag sound too often can drain the battery faster.
• Keep it within range of your devices. If your AirTag is always out of Bluetooth range, it uses more energy searching for a connection.
• Minimize frequent location updates. Constant tracking (especially in Lost Mode) can impact battery life.
• Use quality CR2032 batteries. Cheap or faulty batteries may die sooner or not work at all. Stick with reliable brands like Energizer, Panasonic, or Duracell (non-bitterant version).

Final Thoughts

The Apple AirTag is a smart, sleek tracking solution that helps you keep track of what matters most—whether it’s your keys, your luggage, or even your pet. But to work properly, it needs one thing: a reliable battery.

By understanding how the AirTag battery works, checking its status regularly, and replacing it on time with the right CR2032 cell, you’ll enjoy seamless performance all year round.

Whether you’re using one AirTag or several, this small piece of technology can save you time, stress, and lost items—just don’t forget the battery!

Explore more tech guides, Apple product tips, and smart accessories at xyultra.com

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Can I use any CR2032 battery for my AirTag?

Yes, but Apple recommends using uncoated CR2032 batteries. Some brands add a bitter coating for child safety, which can cause connection issues inside the AirTag.

Q2. How will I know when the AirTag battery is low?

You’ll receive a low battery warning in the Find My app. You won’t get a percentage, but the warning gives you plenty of time to replace it.

Q3. Do I need to re-pair my AirTag after replacing the battery?

No. As long as you replace the battery correctly, your AirTag remains connected to your Apple ID. There’s no need to reset or re-pair it.

Q4. What happens if the AirTag battery dies completely?

Once the battery is dead, your AirTag stops working. It can’t send location updates or play sounds. You’ll need to insert a new battery to resume tracking.

Q5. Can I use rechargeable CR2032 batteries?

Technically yes, but Apple recommends using non-rechargeable lithium CR2032 batteries for best performance. Rechargeable versions may have slightly different voltages that could affect functionality.

Q6. How many times can I replace the AirTag battery?

You can replace the battery as many times as needed. The AirTag itself is designed to last for several years with normal use and battery changes.

Q7. Is the battery replacement process safe for kids?

The battery compartment is relatively secure, but AirTags are not toys. Keep them away from small children who might attempt to open them or access the battery.

Q8. Can AirTags be used in extreme temperatures?

CR2032 batteries are rated to operate in a wide range of temperatures, but extreme heat or cold may reduce performance or lifespan.

Q9. Can I track AirTag battery life in the Find My app?

You will not see an exact percentage. However, when the battery is nearing the end of its life, the Find My app will show a low battery alert under the AirTag’s name.

Q10. Are AirTags waterproof or water-resistant?

Yes, AirTags are IP67-rated, meaning they are resistant to dust and can withstand being submerged in 1 meter of water for up to 30 minutes. However, water exposure may reduce battery life over time.

Q11. Will replacing the battery affect my AirTag settings?

No, replacing the battery won’t affect your settings. The AirTag remains linked to your Apple ID, and all previously set preferences (such as custom names or Lost Mode) are preserved.

Q12. Do AirTags work with Android phones?

AirTags are designed for iPhones. However, Android users can scan a lost AirTag via NFC to view the owner’s contact info if the AirTag is in Lost Mode. Full functionality is limited to iOS devices.

Q13. How many AirTags can I use with one iPhone?

You can register up to 16 AirTags per Apple ID. Each AirTag can be customized with its own name, emoji, and assigned item in the Find My app.

Q14. Can I share an AirTag with someone else?

Yes. Apple now allows AirTag sharing with up to 5 people through the Find My app. All users can track the AirTag and receive notifications.

Q15. Will my AirTag stop working after 1 year?

No, the AirTag itself does not expire. Only the battery needs replacing annually. With proper care, the AirTag can last for several years.