How to open an Apple AirTag and replace the battery — clear, step-by-step
Short version: press down on the polished stainless steel back, twist counterclockwise about a quarter turn, lift the cover off, swap in a fresh CR2032 3V coin cell (positive “+” side up). Then line the cover up and twist clockwise until it clicks.
Below are careful, detailed instructions, with safety notes and troubleshooting tips.
See - An even more detailed instruction. See - A risk benefit analysis.
What you’ll need
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A fresh CR2032 3-volt coin cell (positive side marked “+”).
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Clean, dry hands (or a rubber glove for extra grip).
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(Optional) A coin or a thin non-metal pry tool to help start a turn if the back is stiff.
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A safe place to work (well-lit table; don’t work near small children or pets).
Important battery note: some CR2032 batteries come with a bitter-tasting coating or other coatings. These coatings can sometimes interfere with contact in some devices. If your AirTag doesn’t work after installing a new battery, try a different brand (without coating) or remove any non-metal adhesive packaging carefully.
Step-by-step
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Prepare
Put the AirTag face-down on a soft cloth so you don’t scratch the white front. Make sure your hands are dry and you’re working somewhere clean. -
Press down on the stainless steel back
Place one or two fingers on the polished metal back of the AirTag and press down firmly. You need downward pressure while you twist. -
Rotate counterclockwise
While keeping pressure, rotate the metal back counterclockwise (left) about a quarter turn. You should feel/ hear a small click and then the back will become loose. If it’s very stiff, use a coin pressed into the edge for extra leverage, but avoid sharp tools that could slip and scratch. -
Lift the back off
Once rotated, lift the stainless steel cover away. Inside you’ll see the coin cell battery seated in the metal clip. -
Remove old battery
Use your finger or a non-metal tool to lift the battery out. Note orientation: the positive “+” side faces up toward you when you remove it (and should face up when inserting the new one). -
Insert new CR2032 (positive “+” side up)
Place the fresh battery into the slot with the “+” side up. Press gently until it sits flat and makes contact. -
Replace the back cover
Line up the three small tabs on the cover with the matching slots in the plastic housing (the tabs are visible on the rim). Place the cover on and press down. -
Twist clockwise to lock
While pressing down, twist the cover clockwise (right) until it clicks and is snug. Do not overforce it — it should lock with a firm quarter turn. -
Test
Hold the AirTag near your iPhone. If it’s paired, you should see its location/notification appear, or you can use the Find My app to ping it. If it doesn’t respond, re-check battery orientation and that the cover is fully seated.
Troubleshooting
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Cover won’t rotate / is stuck: Press firmly down and try again. Use a rubber glove for grip or a coin in the edge. Avoid prying with sharp tools.
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AirTag still not responding after new battery:
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Confirm the battery is CR2032 and + side up.
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Try a different brand (some coated cells cause contact problems).
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Make sure the metal contacts inside are not bent or dirty; gently wipe with a dry cloth.
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Reassemble firmly — if the back isn’t fully seated, contact may be intermittent.
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If you see condensation or water exposure: Dry thoroughly and ensure the cover seals properly. Opening the unit may reduce its water resistance until reassembled correctly.
Safety & disposal
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Choking/swallowing hazard: Coin batteries are extremely dangerous if swallowed. Keep replaced batteries away from children and pets and act immediately if ingestion is suspected — seek emergency medical care.
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Do not short or puncture batteries. They can heat up, leak, or catch fire.
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Dispose / recycle used coin cells at a battery recycling point — do not throw them in household trash where local law prohibits it.
Warranty / service note
Apple designed the AirTag so the battery is user-replaceable. If you follow the steps above carefully you should not damage the device, but if the AirTag is physically damaged during an attempt to open it, that could affect service options. If you’re unsure or the AirTag is under special warranty/repair coverage, consider contacting Apple Support or visiting an Apple Store.
If you want, I can:
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Give brand recommendations for reliable CR2032 batteries,
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Walk you through troubleshooting if your AirTag doesn’t reconnect after a battery swap,
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Or provide a short printable checklist you can keep with your AirTag. Which would you like
