How to Charge an AirTag (Hint: You Don’t Actually Charge It)

Introduction        How to Charge an AirTag (Hint: You Don’t Actually Charge It)

If you recently bought an Apple AirTag or are thinking of getting one, you might be wondering how to charge it. It’s a common question because most of us are used to rechargeable devices like phones, earbuds, and smartwatches. You might assume an AirTag would be the same. But when you go looking for a charging port, you’ll notice—there isn’t one.

In this article, we’ll clear up the confusion around AirTag batteries. You’ll learn how AirTags are powered, why they don’t need charging, and how to replace the battery when the time comes.

Can You Charge an AirTag?

Let’s get this out of the way: you cannot charge an AirTag—and you don’t need to.

AirTags are powered by a small, round CR2032 coin cell battery. Instead of plugging it in, you simply replace the battery once it runs out. This makes AirTags more convenient in some ways, especially since they don’t rely on cables or wireless chargers.

Unlike rechargeable batteries found in phones or AirPods, coin cell batteries are single-use, long-lasting, and easy to find in stores. Apple chose this method to keep the design small, simple, and power-efficient. Since AirTags only use power when locating items or connecting briefly to your iPhone, the battery lasts a long time—usually around one year per use.

How to Replace the AirTag Battery (Step-by-Step)

When your AirTag battery runs low, your iPhone will notify you. Replacing it is very simple and takes less than a minute.

Here’s a quick step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Open the AirTag

1. Hold the AirTag with the white side facing down.
   
2. Press down gently on the stainless steel back (the silver side) and twist counterclockwise.
   
3. The metal cover will pop off, revealing the battery inside.
   

Step 2: Remove the Old Battery

1. Take out the old CR2032 battery. Make sure to dispose of it safely and properly, as these batteries are harmful if swallowed and should be kept away from children and pets.
   

Step 3: Insert a New CR2032 Battery

1. Insert a new CR2032 lithium coin battery with the positive (+) side facing up.
   
2. You’ll hear a sound from the AirTag once the new battery is seated correctly—this confirms it’s working.
   

Step 4: Close the AirTag

1. Align the three tabs on the cover with the slots on the AirTag.
   
2. Press down and twist clockwise until it locks into place.
   

What You’ll Need:

1. 1 new CR2032 battery (make sure it’s non-bitter coated, as some coatings may prevent contact with the terminals)
   
2. Your AirTag
   

Signs It’s Time to Replace the Battery:

1. You receive a notification on your iPhone saying the AirTag battery is low.
   
2. The AirTag stops working or can’t be located from the Find My app.
   
3. No sound plays when you try to ping it.

What Type of Battery Does an AirTag Use?

AirTags run on a CR2032 coin cell battery, a small round lithium battery that’s commonly used in devices like watches, key fobs, and medical equipment.

What is a CR2032 Battery?

1. CR: Stands for lithium chemistry.
   
2. 20: The diameter of the battery is 20 mm.
   
3. 32: The thickness is 3.2 mm.
   

This specific size is required—do not use other coin battery models, as they won’t fit or function properly.

Where Can You Buy CR2032 Batteries?

1. Local pharmacies and convenience stores
   
2. Electronics shops (e.g., Best Buy, Micro Center)
   
3. Online retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and Target
   

Look for trusted brands such as Duracell, Energizer, Panasonic, or Sony.

What to Avoid

• Bitter Coated Batteries: Some newer CR2032 batteries come with a bitter coating to prevent children from swallowing them. While this is good for safety, the coating can interfere with the battery’s contact points in an AirTag, preventing it from working.
  
• Wrong Size or Voltage: Only use CR2032 (3V) batteries. CR2025 or CR2016, while similar in appearance, will not work properly

How Long Does an AirTag Battery Last?

The AirTag battery is designed to be low maintenance. On average, you can expect a single CR2032 battery to last around one year.

Factors That Affect Battery Life

1. Usage Frequency: The more often you use Find My to ping or locate your AirTag, the faster the battery will drain.
   
2. Environmental Conditions: Extreme heat or cold can shorten battery life.
   
3. Tracking Activity: AirTags attached to high-movement items (like bikes or pet collars) may use more battery due to more frequent updates.
   

How to Check AirTag Battery in iOS

1. Open the Find My app on your iPhone.
   
2. Tap the Items tab.
   
3. Select your AirTag from the list.
   
4. You’ll see a battery icon below the name of your AirTag. If it’s low, you’ll also get a notification prompt from iOS.
   

Note: The battery icon doesn’t show an exact percentage—only a general estimate of health (good, low, or critical).

Tips to Extend Battery Life

Want to keep your AirTag running as long as possible before needing a replacement? Here are some smart tips:

1. Avoid Constant Location Tracking

If you’re always using the Find My app to ping or check the AirTag’s location, that can drain the battery faster. Try limiting checks unless necessary.

2. Adjust Settings for Shared Devices

If you’re sharing the AirTag’s location with multiple people, every device might ping it. Keep sharing limited to essential users.

3. Store Properly When Not in Use

If you’re not using the AirTag for a while (like between trips), consider removing the battery and storing it in a cool, dry place to avoid unnecessary drain.

4. Use Official or Certified Batteries

Cheap or off-brand CR2032 batteries may die faster. Stick with high-quality brands to ensure the full expected battery life.

FAQs

Can I use rechargeable coin batteries?

Technically, yes—you can find rechargeable versions of CR2032 batteries. However, Apple does not recommend them, and they often do not fit well or provide consistent voltage, which can lead to performance issues. For best results, stick to non-rechargeable CR2032 batteries from trusted brands.

Is there a notification when the battery is low?

Yes! When your AirTag’s battery is running low, your iPhone will automatically send a notification. This gives you enough time to replace it before it stops working.

Will my AirTag stop working suddenly?

Not usually. Battery depletion is gradual, and you’ll receive low-battery warnings in advance. However, if ignored for too long, it can eventually power down—so don’t wait too long once you get the alert.

Can I replace the battery multiple times?

Absolutely! AirTags are designed to be reused. You can replace the battery as many times as needed. Just make sure you use the right battery type (CR2032) each time.

Conclusion

You don’t actually charge an AirTag—you replace its battery. This design makes AirTags super easy to maintain, and they’re built for low-fuss, long-term use.

By using a simple, replaceable CR2032 battery, Apple has made it easy for users to keep their AirTags powered with minimal effort. No cords, no chargers, just a quick battery swap once a year.

If you haven’t checked your AirTag battery in a while, now is the perfect time to do so—especially if it’s been close to a year since you set it up. A few seconds can save you from losing track of your valuable items.