What Battery Does AirTag Use? Latest CR2032 Battery Details for 2026

What battery does airtag use is a common question for AirTag owners who need to replace a depleted cell. As of August 18, 2026, Apple’s current AirTag uses a user-replaceable CR2032 lithium 3V coin-cell battery. The second-generation AirTag, introduced in 2026, also ships with a CR2032 battery already installed. Apple continues to use this replaceable battery design rather than a built-in rechargeable battery.

The battery specification has remained straightforward across AirTag generations. Owners do not need to send the tracker away for routine battery replacement. A compatible CR2032 battery can be purchased from many electronic and drug stores in the United States and installed directly into the AirTag.

What Battery Does AirTag Use?

AirTag uses a CR2032 lithium 3V coin-cell battery. Apple lists the battery as user-replaceable in its technical specifications for both the original AirTag and the second-generation model.

The CR2032 designation identifies a common coin-shaped lithium battery. It is widely available in the United States and is used in many small electronic devices.

Apple ships the AirTag with the battery installed. Therefore, a new AirTag is ready to activate without requiring the owner to purchase a separate battery first.

The current second-generation AirTag, introduced in 2026, retains the same CR2032 battery type. Apple has upgraded several internal features, but the battery remains a replaceable coin cell.

AirTag Battery at a Glance

Apple specifically instructs users to replace the original battery with a CR2032 lithium 3V coin battery and install it with the positive side facing upward.

Does the 2026 AirTag Use a Different Battery?

No. The second-generation AirTag launched in 2026 continues to use a CR2032 coin-cell battery.

This is an important point for people buying the newest AirTag. The updated model brings changes to connectivity and finding performance, but Apple did not change the battery format.

Apple’s 2026 technical specifications identify the second-generation model as using a user-replaceable CR2032 coin-cell battery. The package also includes an AirTag with a CR2032 battery installed.

The second-generation AirTag has a second-generation Ultra Wideband chip, an updated Bluetooth chip and a louder speaker. Apple says Precision Finding can work from up to 50 percent farther away than on the previous generation under supported conditions. These improvements do not change the required replacement battery.

That means owners purchasing replacement batteries in 2026 should still look for the CR2032 designation.

How Long Does an AirTag Battery Last?

Apple states that AirTag works for more than a year on a standard battery that can be replaced by the user. The company notes that battery life varies with usage, environmental conditions and the manufacturer of the replacement battery.

For the second-generation AirTag, Apple’s testing used everyday average usage involving sound playback and Precision Finding. Apple also states that actual battery performance varies based on usage and environmental conditions.

This means owners should not treat one specific number of months as a guaranteed replacement schedule.

Battery performance can differ between individual AirTags. The frequency with which the tracker plays sounds and uses Precision Finding can affect power consumption. Temperature and the replacement battery itself can also influence results.

The practical takeaway is simple: an AirTag is designed to run for more than a year on its coin cell under Apple’s stated conditions, but the exact replacement interval can vary.

How Do You Know When an AirTag Battery Is Low?

Apple provides a low-battery notification when an AirTag needs a replacement. Owners can also check the Find My app.

To check an AirTag’s battery status:

1. Open the Find My app on an iPhone.
2. Select the Items tab.
3. Tap the relevant AirTag.
4. Look beneath the AirTag’s name for the battery status.

When the battery is low, Apple says Low Battery appears under the AirTag’s name.

This system means users do not have to open the AirTag periodically just to inspect the battery.

A low-battery warning is the appropriate signal to purchase a replacement CR2032 battery. Once the new battery is installed correctly, the AirTag can continue operating without replacing the tracker itself.

What Type of CR2032 Battery Should You Buy?

Apple’s replacement instructions specify a CR2032 lithium 3V coin battery. The battery should match the required type and rating.

CR2032 batteries are widely sold in the United States. Apple says replacement batteries are available at most electronic and drug stores.

The important specification is not simply the number printed on the package. The replacement must be a CR2032 lithium 3V coin cell.

Apple also warns that some CR2032 batteries with bitterant coatings may not work correctly with AirTag. Its current support guidance recommends looking for packaging that states compatibility with Apple AirTag.

Therefore, shoppers should check the packaging before purchasing a replacement.

Can You Use Any Brand of CR2032 Battery?

The brand itself is not the primary specification. The replacement needs to be a compatible CR2032 lithium 3V coin cell.

Apple’s current support documentation focuses on the battery type and warns about certain bitterant-coated versions. Some coated batteries can interfere with proper contact inside AirTag.

For that reason, a CR2032 battery labeled as compatible with AirTag is a sensible choice.

There is no need to buy a special rechargeable AirTag battery. In fact, the AirTag is designed around a replaceable coin cell rather than a rechargeable battery system.

Is the AirTag Battery Rechargeable?

No. AirTag does not use a rechargeable battery.

The device uses a replaceable CR2032 lithium 3V coin cell. When the battery becomes depleted, the owner removes it and installs a new battery of the same type.

This design keeps the battery compartment accessible without requiring a charging cable or charging pad.

The replacement process also means that a depleted battery does not automatically make the AirTag unusable. The tracker can continue operating after the old cell is removed and a suitable new CR2032 battery is installed correctly.

How to Replace an AirTag Battery

Replacing the battery does not require special tools.

Apple’s current instructions use the stainless steel battery cover on the back of the AirTag. The process involves removing that cover, taking out the old battery and installing the new CR2032 cell.

Step 1: Press the Battery Cover

Hold the AirTag with the polished stainless steel side facing upward.

Press down on the battery cover.

Step 2: Rotate the Cover

While pressing down, rotate the cover counterclockwise until it stops.

The cover can then be removed.

Step 3: Remove the Old Battery

Take the existing battery out of the AirTag.

Handle the old coin cell carefully and keep it away from children.

Step 4: Insert the New CR2032

Place the replacement CR2032 lithium 3V battery into the AirTag.

The positive side must face upward.

Apple states that a sound will play when the battery connects properly.

Step 5: Reinstall the Cover

Put the battery cover back onto the AirTag.

Align the three tabs on the cover with the three slots on the AirTag.

Step 6: Lock the Cover

Rotate the cover clockwise until it stops.

The AirTag is then ready to continue operating with its new battery.

Does Replacing the Battery Erase the AirTag?

Replacing the CR2032 battery does not require owners to replace the AirTag hardware.

The battery is specifically designed to be user-replaceable. The replacement process is part of the product’s normal operation.

The important step is installing the correct battery in the correct orientation. Apple states that the positive side should face upward.

Once the new battery makes proper contact, the AirTag produces a sound indicating that the battery is connected.

Why Does AirTag Use a Coin-Cell Battery?

The AirTag is a small item tracker designed to remain attached to everyday objects. Its compact design makes a coin-cell battery practical.

The current second-generation AirTag measures 1.26 inches in diameter and 0.31 inch thick. Apple lists its weight at 0.42 ounce, or 11.8 grams.

A replaceable coin cell also avoids the need for a charging port or charging cable.

Owners can simply replace the battery after it becomes low. That approach is particularly convenient for trackers attached to keys, bags, luggage and other objects that users may not want to remove regularly.

What Battery Comes With a New AirTag?

A new AirTag comes with a CR2032 coin-cell battery already installed.

Apple’s current product specifications explicitly list an AirTag with a CR2032 battery installed in the box.

That applies to the second-generation AirTag introduced in 2026.

Therefore, buyers do not need to purchase a battery before setting up a newly purchased AirTag.

The included battery is intended to provide the initial operating period before eventually requiring replacement.

What Happens When the AirTag Battery Dies?

When an AirTag battery becomes depleted, the tracker can no longer operate normally until its battery is replaced.

The device cannot continue functioning indefinitely after the CR2032 cell has exhausted its available power.

The good news is that AirTag does not need to be discarded when the battery runs out. Apple designed the battery compartment so users can replace the coin cell themselves.

The replacement takes only a few basic steps and does not require opening the electronic components inside the tracker.

Does Cold Weather Affect the AirTag Battery?

Environmental conditions can influence battery performance.

Apple lists an operating ambient temperature range of −4°F to 140°F, or −20°C to 60°C, for the current AirTag.

Battery life can vary with environmental conditions, so users should not assume every CR2032 battery will provide identical performance in every situation.

This is especially relevant for people who keep AirTags in luggage, vehicles or outdoor equipment exposed to changing temperatures.

The AirTag’s specified operating range provides the relevant benchmark for normal use.

Are CR2032 Batteries Safe Around Children?

Coin-cell batteries require careful handling.

Apple’s current safety guidance warns that AirTag, its battery cover and its battery can present choking hazards or other risks to small children. It also warns that swallowing a button or coin battery can cause severe internal chemical burns in as little as two hours.

New and used batteries should therefore be kept out of children’s reach.

Used CR2032 batteries should also be disposed of responsibly under applicable local battery-recycling or disposal rules.

Parents and caregivers should take particular care when replacing an AirTag battery because the removed coin cell is small and easy for a child to handle.

Does the Second-Generation AirTag Have Better Battery Performance?

Apple’s current specifications confirm that the second-generation AirTag uses a CR2032 battery and can operate for more than a year under the company’s stated usage conditions.

The 2026 model also introduces upgraded hardware, including a second-generation Ultra Wideband chip, expanded Precision Finding capabilities and a louder speaker. Apple says the new speaker is 50 percent louder than the previous generation and can help users hear the AirTag from up to twice as far away.

Those changes improve finding performance, but they do not replace the CR2032 battery system.

Owners should therefore continue purchasing the same battery type when their second-generation AirTag reports a low battery.

Original AirTag vs. Second-Generation AirTag Battery

The battery requirement remains consistent between the two generations.

Apple’s specifications for the original AirTag and the 2026 model both identify the CR2032 as the user-replaceable battery.

This consistency makes battery replacement relatively simple for owners of either generation.

What Should You Look for When Buying a Replacement?

When shopping for a replacement AirTag battery in the United States, focus on these specifications:

• CR2032 designation
• Lithium chemistry
• 3V rating
• Compatibility with AirTag
• Proper packaging and battery condition

Avoid choosing a battery based only on physical appearance. Coin cells can look similar while having different specifications.

Apple’s current guidance specifically calls for a CR2032 lithium 3V battery.

A compatible battery should also be installed with the positive side facing upward.

What Is the Simple Answer for AirTag Owners?

The answer is straightforward: AirTag uses a CR2032 lithium 3V coin-cell battery.

That remains true for the second-generation AirTag released in 2026. Apple includes the battery with a new AirTag and allows users to replace it when the charge becomes low.

The battery is not rechargeable. Instead, owners remove the depleted cell and install a new compatible CR2032 battery.

Apple says AirTag works for more than a year on a standard battery, although actual battery life varies with usage, environmental conditions and other factors.

For U.S. AirTag owners, replacement is also convenient because CR2032 batteries are commonly available from electronic and drug stores.

The most important details to remember are the battery number, voltage and installation direction: CR2032, lithium 3V, positive side up.

Have you replaced an AirTag battery yet? Share your experience or stay updated on the latest AirTag battery information.