How Long Do AirTags Last

How to inspect AirTag battery level

Open the Find My app, tap Items, choose your AirTag, and review the battery level.

What impacts AirTag battery life?

The frequency of location updates, ambient conditions, proximity to an iPhone or other Apple devices, and battery age can all affect AirTag battery life.

But how exactly do these factors affect your AirTag’s battery life? Find out below.

1. Frequency of location updates

The more your AirTag moves or connects to other Apple devices in the Find My network, the faster its battery runs out, especially in locations with many connected devices.

Therefore, you will need to change its battery more frequently than someone who uses it sparingly. On the other hand, a stationary AirTag updates its location less often.

2. Environmental factors

While AirTags are water- and dust-resistant (IP67-rated), they are vulnerable to environmental damage. Exposure to the elements, particularly severe weather, may adversely affect the performance of an AirTag battery. You can avoid needless damage by keeping it away from harsh weather, high temperatures, and rough or abrasive surfaces.

3. Proximity to an iPhone or other devices

AirTags connect to surrounding Apple devices using Bluetooth, typically within 30–50 meters range. If your iPhone or other Find My devices are not nearby, the AirTag may try to reconnect more frequently, which can drain the battery over time. Similarly, when Bluetooth availability is poor, the AirTag may keep trying to broadcast its location, leading to faster battery usage.

4. Battery age

Just like with all lithium-ion batteries, AirTag batteries will degrade over time—regardless of how little they are used. This is because CR2032s are lithium batteries, not lithium-ion (which are rechargeable). Although a CR2032 coin cell battery will typically last around a year, you can expect its capacity to gradually diminish simply due to age and chemical degradation.

The same is true for your iPhone. A fast-depleting battery could be a sign that someone is tracking you. Don’t leave anything to chance—use Clario Anti Spy’s Device system to check if your iPhone has been breached or jailbroken. Keep in mind, though, that it won’t detect spouse AirTag stalking—you’ll need to check for that manually.

Here’s how:

1. Download and install Clario Anti Spy, pick a subscription, and set up an account.
2. Open the app, find Device system check, and tap Scan.
3. Clario Anti Spy will check your phone and report on its findings.

How to extend the life of your AirTag

While you can’t prevent your AirTag from degrading, you can extend its life with proper care to prevent your AirTag from not working. To maximize your AirTag's battery, place it in locations with good Bluetooth visibility, reduce frequent movement, and replace it with a quality CR2032 when necessary.

Here’s a more detailed guide to extending your AirTag’s battery life:

1. Managing AirTag settings

Even though you cannot “pause” an AirTag, here are a few ways to save your AirTag’s battery. If you'd like to give your AirTag a break without removing the battery, try to limit its movement and keep it away from Apple device-dense areas. Remember that switching settings like Location Services or Find My access on your iPhone doesn't directly affect the AirTag—only how your phone interacts with it.

2. Optimal placement of your AirTag

When it comes to prolonging your AirTag’s life, placement is key. Avoid placing it inside metal objects, as that could interfere with the Bluetooth signal. Instead, place it in safe areas where it won’t be easily damaged. This includes your:

• Wallet
• Handbag (internal pockets)
• Suitcase lining

If your partner is spying on you, they can place an AirTag on your bag or car.

3. Reduce excessive movement or reconnection attempts

Constant movement or placement in regions with heavy usage with numerous Apple devices will cause your AirTag to communicate with the Find My network more often, which will eventually exhaust its battery. Unless you’re actively using it, put the AirTag in a static, low-traffic area to preserve battery life.

How to replace an AirTag battery

A dead battery doesn’t mean the end of your AirTag’s life. Replace the battery to continue using your tracker beyond its battery’s lifespan. Remember, we’ve told you how long AirTags last over a year, so expect to use your AirTag for that duration before replacing the battery again.

Has Apple prompted you to change your AirTag’s battery? Here’s how to do it:

1. Press down and twist the AirTag cover counterclockwise.
2. Remove the old CR2032 battery.
3. Insert a new one with a positive side facing up.
4. Return the cover and twist it clockwise until it clicks into place.

Explore more about replacing your AirTag’s cover from Apple Support.

Maximize your AirTag’s lifespan to ensure your AirTag lasts long

AirTags last about a year on average, though they can last even longer. Constant connection requests, experiencing connection issues, and exposing it to harsh weather conditions can reduce its battery capacity.

To maximize your AirTag’s life, avoid physically damaging it, avoid crowded places and constant movement, and keep your iPhone close to your AirTag. Don’t forget about your iPhone. Your phone’s battery depleting fast can be a sign of a breach. Use Clario Anti Spy’s Device system check to flag breaches like jailbreaking, which compromises your privacy.