Do Apple AirTags Need to Be Charged?
Apple AirTags are great for keeping track of your personal belongings. Once linked, an iPad or iPhone can quickly and accurately find everything, from missing keys and wallets to lost purses and luggage. Using lithium batteries that you replace when necessary, Apple AirTags don't need to be charged, so there's no need to add another wire to your cable drawer.
This article looks closely at Apple AirTag batteries, their lifespan, how to replace them and how much you can expect to spend.
AirTag battery type
Electronics use various battery types, including rechargeable and disposable. Due to their small size, AirTags aren't suitable for traditional disposable batteries, such as AA or AAA, or compatible with button cell batteries.
AirTags use water- and dust-resistant lithium CR2032 coin cell batteries, which offer longer battery life, reliable performance and a simple replacement process.
You can typically purchase CR2032 lithium batteries from big box stores, drug stores, supermarkets and online vendors.
AirTag battery life: How long do AirTag batteries last?
On average, AirTag batteries have a lifespan of about 1 year. However, several factors can influence AirTag battery life, such as:
- AirTag use: The more you use your AirTags, the more the battery drains.
- AirTag settings: Various AirTag settings can consume more energy. For example, leaving Lost Mode on continuously can shorten the battery's life.
- Weather conditions: If your AirTags are exposed to extremely high or low temperatures, the battery's lifespan could be reduced.
- Battery quality: Not all lithium CR2032 batteries are alike. Some are lower quality and not as long-lasting.
How to check AirTag battery charge
Fortunately, Apple devices warn users when the AirTag battery runs low. This gives you time to replace the battery before it dies. However, you don't have to wait for this warning — you can check the life of your battery at any time.
To check your battery's life, follow these steps.
- Open the Find My app on your iPad or iPhone.
- Click on the Items tab.
- Select the AirTag you want to check from the provided list.
- Check the battery icon located directly below the AirTag name.
- Look for a warning notification indicating a low battery percentage.
AirTag battery replacement costs
Replacement AirTag batteries are fairly inexpensive. When bought in bulk, they cost less than $1 each. Otherwise, you can expect to pay less than $5 for one. These batteries are readily available and easy to replace.
How to replace AirTag batteries
Follow these steps to replace your AirTag batteries:
- Remove the AirTag from its case.
- Carefully remove the backplate by pressing firmly and rotating it counterclockwise.
- Remove the battery and properly dispose of it.
- Insert the new lithium battery with the positive side facing upward as indicated on your AirTag.
- Carefully replace the backplate by pressing firmly and rotating it clockwise until it snaps into place.
- Test the new battery to ensure it works properly.
AirTag Battery maintenance do's and dont's
There are several things you should and shouldn't do regarding AirTag battery maintenance.
AirTag battery maintenance do's
The following steps can extend the battery's lifespan:
- Invest in a durable AirTag case to protect the tag from harsh weather conditions, such as high and low temperatures.
- Frequently check your AirTag settings to ensure you're not using battery-draining features.
- Only purchase high-quality batteries for your AirTags.
AirTag battery maintenance don'ts
Lithium coin cell batteries can be extremely dangerous around small children. Not only can they pose a choking hazard if swallowed, but the lithium can cause internal burning and even death.
Keep these don'ts in mind if you have small children at home:
- Don't change AirTag batteries around small children.
- Purchase batteries with a bitter-tasting coating to deter children from ingesting them.
- Dispose of old batteries immediately.
Protect your investment today by purchasing a durable, high-quality AirTag case from OtterBox.
