You do not charge the battery on AirTags. Apple AirTags use a replaceable coin cell battery instead of a rechargeable one. When the battery runs low, you remove it and install a new one.
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How AirTag Batteries Work
AirTags Do Not Support Charging
Apple AirTags do not include a charging port or wireless charging hardware. The device runs on a standard CR2032 lithium coin cell battery.
This design keeps AirTags small and allows long battery life without daily or weekly charging.
How Long an AirTag Battery Lasts
Under normal use, an AirTag battery lasts about one year. Battery life depends on how often the AirTag communicates with nearby Apple devices.
Frequent location updates or loud sound playback can shorten battery life.
How To Replace an AirTag Battery
Replacing the battery in AirTags is simple and requires no tools. Apple designed the process for quick access.
Time needed: 3 minutes
- Hold the AirTag with the stainless steel side facing up.
- Press down and rotate the cover counterclockwise.
- Remove the old CR2032 battery.
- Insert a new CR2032 battery with the positive side facing up.
- Replace the cover and rotate it clockwise until it locks.
The AirTag plays a sound when the battery is inserted correctly.
How To Check AirTag Battery Status
Your iPhone shows AirTag battery status inside the Find My app. Apple does not display a percentage, only a low battery warning.
- Open the Find My app.
- Tap the Items tab.
- Select the AirTag you want to check.
When the battery is low, the app displays a warning under the AirTag name.
Tips
- Use branded CR2032 batteries without bitter coating.
- Replace the battery as soon as a low warning appears.
- Avoid rechargeable coin cells, which may not fit properly.
- Store spare batteries in a dry, cool place.
Charge or Replace AirTag Batteries: FAQ
No. AirTags use a replaceable coin cell battery and do not support charging.
Replaceable batteries allow longer runtime without frequent charging.
The rechargeable equivalent to CR2032 are LI2032 and ML2032. They’re not officially supported by Apple, but may work.
Most models are. Some CR2032 batteries come with a bitter coating to prevent them from being swallowed by children, and this may cause AirTags to not recognize them. A workaround is to clean these batteries with household alcohol or acetone, but the best solution is avoid using battery from brands with such coating.
Summary
- You do not charge AirTags like other Apple devices.
- Each AirTag uses a CR2032 coin cell battery.
- Battery replacement takes only a few seconds.
- The Find My app alerts you when power is low.
AirTags are designed for simplicity and long life. Replacing the battery once a year keeps them working without daily charging or cables.
