Since their release, Apple AirTags have become one of the most popular tracking devices on the market. People use them to keep track of keys, wallets, bags, pets, and even vehicles. Thanks to their compact size, simple interface, and seamless integration with Apple’s ecosystem, AirTags have earned a loyal following. But a common question many potential users have is: Do Apple AirTags need to be charged?
The short answer is no — AirTags don’t require regular charging like many other electronic devices. Instead, they rely on replaceable batteries, which makes them extremely low-maintenance. However, there’s much more to understand about how their power system works, how long the batteries last, and how to replace them when the time comes.
How Do Apple AirTags Get Power?
Unlike smartphones, smartwatches, or wireless earbuds, Apple AirTags do not contain rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. Instead, each AirTag uses a small, coin-shaped battery known as a CR2032 lithium coin cell. This battery type is widely available, inexpensive, and easily replaceable by the user.
By using a replaceable battery rather than a rechargeable one, Apple has designed AirTags to require minimal attention from users. You don’t need to carry a charging cable, dock, or worry about nightly recharging cycles. Once the battery is installed, the AirTag can operate for months without any further action.
How Long Does an AirTag Battery Last?
Apple claims that an AirTag battery lasts approximately one year under normal usage conditions. This estimate assumes the AirTag is being used regularly, but not excessively pinged or located multiple times per day. In reality, the battery life may vary depending on how often you trigger sound alerts, initiate tracking, or use the Precision Finding feature.
For most users who attach AirTags to keys, luggage, or wallets, one year is a realistic expectation before needing to replace the battery. More frequent usage may shorten battery life slightly, while occasional use could potentially extend it beyond a year.
How Do You Know When to Replace the Battery?
Since AirTags don’t require charging, it’s essential to monitor battery levels so you can replace them before the device stops working. Fortunately, Apple has made this simple through the Find My app.
When an AirTag’s battery gets low, you’ll receive a notification on your iPhone or iPad. You can also check the battery level manually:
- Open the Find My app.
- Select the Items tab.
- Choose your AirTag from the list.
- If the battery is low, a warning icon will appear beneath the AirTag’s name.
The Find My app doesn’t display a specific percentage but offers enough notice to allow you time to purchase a replacement battery.
How to Replace an AirTag Battery
Replacing an AirTag’s battery is quick and requires no special tools. Here’s how:
- Hold the AirTag with the Apple logo facing you.
- Press down gently on the stainless steel back cover.
- Rotate the cover counterclockwise until it stops.
- Remove the cover and the old CR2032 battery.
- Insert a new CR2032 battery with the positive (+) side facing up.
- Replace the cover and rotate it clockwise until it clicks into place.
Once installed correctly, the AirTag will emit a brief sound indicating successful power restoration.
Can You Use Any CR2032 Battery?
While CR2032 batteries are common, it’s important to choose the right type for your AirTag. Some brands include a bitter coating on the battery surface to prevent accidental swallowing by children. While this coating serves an important safety purpose, certain coatings may interfere with the battery’s ability to make proper contact inside the AirTag.
Apple recommends using uncoated CR2032 batteries to ensure full compatibility. You can find suitable batteries from trusted brands like Duracell, Energizer, Panasonic, or Sony.
Why Doesn’t Apple Use Rechargeable Batteries in AirTags?
There are several reasons why Apple chose replaceable batteries instead of built-in rechargeable ones:
- Long Battery Life: With over a year of operation per battery, frequent recharging isn’t necessary.
- Compact Size: Rechargeable batteries would require more internal space for charging circuits and connectors.
- Convenience: No cables, docks, or wireless chargers are needed.
- Eco-Friendly Longevity: The long lifespan means fewer replacements over time compared to frequent recharges.
- Affordability: CR2032 batteries are inexpensive and widely available.
This design allows AirTags to remain ultra-portable and easy to maintain.
What Happens If the Battery Dies Completely?
If you don’t replace a low battery after receiving a warning, the AirTag will eventually stop functioning. It won’t be able to transmit its location, emit sound alerts, or connect to the Find My network. However, once you install a fresh battery, the AirTag will resume working as normal.
AirTags do not lose their pairing information or user settings when the battery dies, so you don’t need to reset or reconnect the device after changing the battery.
Are There Alternatives to Charging for Backup?
Since AirTags aren’t rechargeable, some users wonder if external charging accessories exist. Currently, there are no charging options or power banks for AirTags. Their simple, replaceable battery system eliminates the need for any charging accessories entirely.
For extended backup, some users may keep spare CR2032 batteries at home or carry one while traveling.
Conclusion
So, do Apple AirTags need to be charged? The answer is clear: No, they don’t. Thanks to their replaceable CR2032 coin cell batteries, AirTags offer a low-maintenance experience with approximately a year of operation per battery. Once the battery runs low, replacing it takes only a minute and requires no tools.
This simple and effective power system is one of the key reasons AirTags have become so popular. They deliver powerful tracking capabilities without the hassle of daily charging — offering both convenience and peace of mind for Apple users.
