AirTags do not feature a traditional on/off switch; their "on" state is dependent on a fresh battery and a successful pairing with your Apple ID. If your AirTag isn't working or visible, it's typically due to a depleted battery or a need to re-pair it with your device.
Understanding AirTag's "On" State
An AirTag is effectively "on" and functional when it has power (from its battery) and is actively paired with your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch. If it appears to be "off," it usually means one of two things: the battery is dead, or it has been unpaired/reset and needs to be reconnected.
Step 1: Check and Replace the Battery
The most common reason an AirTag stops working is a dead battery. AirTags use a standard CR2032 lithium 3V coin cell battery, which typically lasts about one year.
How to Check Battery Status:
If your AirTag was previously paired and still has some power, you can check its battery status in the Find My app:
- Open the Find My app on your iPhone.
- Tap the Items tab.
- Select your AirTag from the list.
- The battery status will be displayed below the AirTag's name. If it's low, you'll see a "Low Battery" alert.
Instructions for Replacing the Battery:
- Open the AirTag: Press down on the stainless steel battery cover and rotate it counterclockwise until it stops.
- Remove the old battery: Lift off the cover and take out the old CR2032 battery.
- Insert new battery: Place a new CR2032 lithium 3V coin cell battery with the positive (+) side facing up. (For child safety, consider using CR2032 batteries with a bitterant coating, though some may not work with AirTag).
- Close the AirTag: Replace the cover, ensuring the three tabs align with the slots. Press down on the cover and rotate it clockwise until it locks into place. You should hear a chime, indicating the AirTag is powered on.
For a visual guide, refer to Apple's official support page on How to replace the battery in your AirTag.
Step 2: Re-Pairing Your AirTag with Your iPhone
If your AirTag has a fresh battery but still isn't showing up, or if you've previously reset or unpaired it, you'll need to re-pair it with your iPhone. This process is similar to setting up a new AirTag.
Steps to Re-Pair Your AirTag:
- Ensure Bluetooth is On: Make sure Bluetooth is enabled on your iPhone.
- Bring AirTag Close: Hold your AirTag close to your iPhone.
- Initiate Connection: A card should appear on your iPhone's screen saying "AirTag Detected." Tap Connect.
- Name Your AirTag: Choose a name from the list (e.g., "Backpack," "Keys") or select "Custom Name" to create your own. Tap Continue.
- Register to Apple ID: Tap Continue again to register the AirTag to your Apple ID.
- Complete Setup: Tap Done. Your AirTag should now be visible and trackable in the Find My app.
Just as in the process of setting up a new AirTag, once powered and near your iPhone, it should show up in the Find My app, allowing you to connect it to an item, such as your backpack, as if it were new.
Troubleshooting Common AirTag Issues
If you encounter difficulties, here's a quick reference for common issues and solutions:
| Issue | Potential Causes | Solutions |
|---|---|---|
| AirTag not showing in Find My app | Dead battery, AirTag out of range, unpaired | Replace battery; bring close to iPhone; re-pair; check Bluetooth. |
| Pairing failed | Bluetooth off, Wi-Fi off, iPhone outdated | Ensure Bluetooth and Wi-Fi are on; update iOS; restart iPhone. |
| "Accessory Not Supported" error | Compatibility issue (rare), faulty battery | Ensure battery is correctly inserted; try a different new battery; contact Apple Support. |
| AirTag location not updating | Battery low, out of range of Apple devices | Check battery; ensure AirTag is near other Apple devices to relay its location. |
Key Takeaways
- Battery is Key: Always start by ensuring your AirTag has a fresh CR2032 battery.
- Re-pairing is Setup: If unpaired, "turning on" means going through the setup process again.
- Find My App: The Find My app is your central hub for managing and monitoring your AirTags.
By following these steps, you can quickly get your AirTag back to its active and trackable state.
