How To Replace an Apple AirTag Battery: A Step-by-Step Guide

Apple AirTags are small, round devices that can be attached to keys, wallets, backpacks and other items to help you keep track of your belongings using Apple's Find My app. An AirTag relies on a replaceable CR2032 coin cell battery to power its operation.

According to Apple, the battery inside each AirTag is designed to last for approximately one year before needing to be replaced. Battery life can vary depending on how frequently the AirTag is used to locate items and other factors. As the battery becomes depleted, AirTags will begin emitting notifications and alerts through the Find My app indicating that the battery needs to be swapped out.

Replacing an AirTag's battery is a quick and simple process that only takes a few minutes. With the right materials and proper precautions, you can pop open the AirTag casing, remove the old battery, insert a new one, and reseal the device. Read on for step-by-step instructions on how to safely replace the battery in your AirTags.

When to Replace the Battery

You'll know it's time to replace your AirTag's battery when you start receiving low battery alerts and warnings through the Find My app. These alerts may indicate that the battery level has dropped below a certain threshold, impacting performance.

Specifically, you may notice the following signs indicating a depleted battery:

• The Find My app shows a low battery notification for that specific AirTag. This occurs when the battery level drops below 20%.

• The AirTag will emit audible chirp tones when triggered to play a sound via the Find My app. This "weak-battery" chirp is distinct from the normal sound.

• The precision finding feature in the Find My app no longer shows the exact distance to the AirTag when you move closer.

• You're experiencing reduced Bluetooth and UWB signal range when trying to locate the AirTag through your Apple device.

You can also check the battery status of your AirTags at any time right within the Find My app. Navigate to the "Items" tab, select your AirTag, and look at the battery level indicator. If it shows red, it's time for a new battery.

For optimal performance, Apple suggests proactively replacing the battery once a year. Don't wait for low battery warnings if it's been in use for around 12 months.

Materials Needed

Replacing the battery in an AirTag is straightforward, but you'll need a few supplies:

• A new CR2032 coin cell battery. This is the standard flat, round 3V lithium battery used in watches, remotes, and other small electronics. Make sure to get an authentic new battery from a reputable retailer.

• A non-conductive pry tool. You'll need a thin plastic pry bar or portable tool to gently pop open the AirTag casing. Avoid metal tools to prevent damaging components.

• A soft lint-free cloth. Use this to wipe away any fingerprints or smudges on the AirTag surface.

Apple also recommends wearing disposable gloves when handling used batteries to avoid any skin exposure to battery acid.

Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these steps to safely replace your AirTag's dead battery with a new one:

1. Remove the AirTag from any accessory it's attached to, like a keychain or luggage tag. You need direct access to the device.

2. Locate the thin seam running along the edge of the AirTag casing. This is where you'll pry it open.

3. Take your non-conductive pry tool and gently insert it into the seam gap. Slowly twist the tool to widen the gap.

4. Continue prying all the way around the perimeter of the AirTag until the plastic casing pops open. Bigger tools can damage it.

5. Remove the old CR2032 battery by gently lifting it out of the holder. Be careful not to damage any internal components.

6. Check that the new battery is a CR2032 and the positive side (marked +) is facing up in the open AirTag.

7. Using disposable gloves, carefully set the new battery into place, making sure it's firmly seated in the holder.

8. Realign the front and back AirTag casing pieces and firmly press them shut with your hands. It should click back into place.

9. Reattach the AirTag to its accessory or item, then open the Find My app and test that it appears connected with good battery level.

Tips and Precautions

• Avoid using metal pry tools, tweezers, or anything sharp to open the AirTag, as these could puncture the battery or damage electronics inside.

• Don't apply too much force or bend the AirTag excessively when prying it open. Take care not to break the plastic casing.

• The battery will only fit one way with the positive side facing up. Don't force it into place backwards.

• Dispose of used batteries properly by taking them to a recycling center, rather than the trash. Batteries can contain toxic chemicals.

• Keep new and used batteries away from children to prevent swallowing hazards. Seek medical help immediately if a battery is ingested.

• Wipe away any battery acid or leakage inside the AirTag using the cloth. Don't get any liquid in the electronics.

• If you have issues getting the casing to close properly or notice damage, contact Apple Support for additional help.

Conclusion

Replacing your AirTag battery is a quick fix that ensures your item tracker keeps working properly for locating lost items. Monitor your AirTag's battery level in the Find My app and make swapping the battery an annual habit. With the right preparation, tools, and by following Apple's guidance, you can get your AirTag sealed back up with a fresh battery in just a few minutes. Maintaining the battery will make sure your AirTag is ready when you next misplace your keys or wallet.