AirTags: Unraveling Battery Life and Replacement
When it comes to tracking your belongings, AirTags are a valuable tool. From luggage to keys, purses to even pets, the device allows you to keep tabs on your missed misdemeanors. But just as with any tracker, it relies heavily on its battery life. Once it loses its power, so does its utility.
Checking your AirTag's battery status
Although AirTags boast a decent battery lifespan, there's no straightforward way to monitor its charge. Unlike smartphones or tablets, you cannot check the percentage of AirTag's battery life. The battery life of AirTags is somewhat enigmatic.
How long does an AirTag battery last?
Apple claims that your AirTags won't exhaust their battery capacity within approximately a year. When the battery is almost depleted, you'll receive a notification from the Find My app on your iPhone. You can also check the battery status in the Find My app by tapping on the 'Items' tab and selecting the AirTag. The message reads simply: 'Low Battery' – there's no additional info provided. Interestingly, if the AirTag's battery isn't almost depleted, the battery information isn't displayed at all.
Upgrading your AirTag battery
Fortunately, Apple uses common 3-volt Lithium-ion CR2032 coin cell batteries, which are readily available in hardware stores, electronics shops, and online retailers. Once you've got the replacement, place the AirTag on a flat surface and push down gently on the back edge while rotating counterclockwise. This will open the battery compartment, allowing you to remove the old battery and slot in the new one. The AirTag will emit a sound to confirm the installation is complete. Simply reattach the cover and twist it back on, clockwise.
Get your AirTags and replacements on Amazon:
- AirTag: $27 (price as of article publication)
- AirTag 4-pack: $79.98 (originally $99)
- CR2032 Battery Pack (10-pack): $5.99 (price as of article publication)
As the battery life of AirTags proves somewhat elusive, it's good to know that there are compatible third-party replacements available. For instance, Energizer Ultimate Lithium batteries, popular for their longevity and consistent power output, can be a suitable replacement. But beware of incompatible brands like Sunbeam and Suyu.
For those looking to prolong their AirTag's lifespan even further, ElevationLabs offers the TimeCapsule 10-Year Battery Case, which substitutes the CR2032 battery with two AA lithium batteries, potentially extending the battery life to a decade.
Sources:
[1] [2] [add information on Sunbeam and Suyu here] [3] [add information on rechargeable AirTags here] [4] [add information on AirTag battery life testing here] [5] [add information on AirTag power source here]
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