Apple’s AirTag is a small, button-sized tracker that has gained popularity for its ability to help users locate misplaced, lost, or stolen personal belongings. By attaching the AirTag to items like keychains, backpacks, or bicycles, users can easily track their possessions through the Find My app on their iPhone.
The battery life of an AirTag is often a concern for potential users. According to Apple, the AirTag battery should last for around one year, depending upon usage. The device uses a replaceable CR2032 lithium coin battery, making it easy for users to maintain their AirTag’s functionality without the need for frequent charging.
By understanding the expected battery life of an AirTag, users can appreciate the convenience and peace of mind this small yet powerful tracker offers. Ensuring a working battery helps the device to function optimally and keeps valuables within reach through the Find My app.
AirTag Battery Life
CR2032 Battery
The Apple AirTag utilizes a CR2032 lithium coin battery which is easily replaceable. This type of battery is commonly found and can be purchased at most stores that sell batteries.
Low Battery Notification
When the AirTag’s battery starts to get low, you will receive a notification on your iPhone informing you that it’s time to replace the battery. Tapping on that notification will direct you to the specific AirTag page within the Find My app, where you can obtain more information about the battery status.
Battery Life Expectancy
Apple states that the battery in an AirTag should last for more than a year; however, the actual battery life may vary depending on usage. One key feature of the AirTag is its ability to play a sound when connected to the Find My app, helping you locate misplaced items. The more frequently this feature is used, the shorter the battery life might be. Nonetheless, with moderate use, the AirTag battery should provide a dependable service for an extended period.
Battery Replacement
How to Replace Airtag Battery
An AirTag battery typically lasts for about a year, depending on usage. When the battery is low, your iPhone will notify you, so you can replace it in time. Replacing the AirTag battery is simple and only requires a CR2032 lithium coin battery. To replace the battery, start by holding your AirTag with the white plastic side facing down and the metal case with the Apple logo facing up. Place two fingers on the metal side, press down firmly (while applying pressure from the plastic half), and rotate counter-clockwise. This will allow you to remove the metal lid and access the battery compartment.
Positive Side Placement
Once you have opened the AirTag, you will find the tracker’s CR2032 battery. It’s essential to place the new battery with the positive side facing up, towards the metal lid with the Apple logo. After inserting the new battery, replace the metal lid by aligning it with the white plastic half and press down while rotating clockwise. This will secure the lid and complete the battery replacement process.
Remember to be mindful of the AirTag battery life and replace it with a new CR2032 battery when needed, ensuring proper functionality and maintaining the ability to locate your tagged items.
Airtag Specifications
Water-Resistance
Apple AirTag features an IP67 water-resistance rating, meaning it can withstand immersion in water up to 1 meter (about 3.3 feet) for up to 30 minutes. This level of water resistance protects the AirTag against accidental splashes or rain, but it is not recommended for long-term exposure to water or submersion. Keeping the device dry whenever possible will help maintain its battery life and functionality.
U1 Chip
The U1 chip is a unique feature present in the AirTag, which uses Ultra-Wideband technology to provide precise location tracking. This chip allows for enhanced location accuracy when used with compatible devices, such as the iPhone 11 and later models. The U1 chip works together with the iPhone’s Find My app to deliver a seamless experience when locating your lost items, distinguishing the AirTag from other Bluetooth trackers.
Chime Speaker
The AirTag is equipped with a built-in chime speaker to help users locate missing items more easily. When triggered from the Find My app, the speaker will emit a sound, providing an audible clue for locating the AirTag. This feature, combined with the precise location tracking provided by the U1 chip, significantly increases the chances of recovering misplaced items quickly. The chime is designed to be loud enough for most everyday situations but may be harder to hear in noisy environments.
Using Apple AirTags
Find My App
Apple AirTags are small, coin-shaped devices that can be attached to your items, such as keys, wallets, or bags. They can be easily tracked using the Find My app on your iPhone. The app provides a map-view of your AirTag’s location and can help you locate your misplaced belongings.
The Find My app allows users to set up notifications, with customizable distance ranges, if their tagged item goes beyond the desired range. Additionally, the app also offers easy battery-level monitoring of AirTags, ensuring timely replacements.
Precision Finding
Thanks to Precision Finding, users with an iPhone 11 or later can take advantage of the U1 chip, which provides more accurate location data. Using this feature, the Find My app can provide you with turn-by-turn directions to your lost item, leading you to the AirTag with great precision.
The Precision Finding feature assists users in finding unknown AirTags that may be “following” them, increasing their personal security source.
Last Known Location
In situations where your AirTag goes outside of your iPhone’s range, the Last Known Location feature can still help. Using the Find My network, a crowdsourced platform consisting of millions of Apple devices, your AirTag can anonymously and securely update its location without affecting other users’ privacy.
This feature ensures that even when the AirTag is out of your iPhone’s range, you can still access its most recent location and make efforts to retrieve your lost item. Apple AirTag’s battery life lasts for about a year, depending on usage, making it reliable for long-term tracking purposes.
Compatibility and Requirements
iOS 14 Compatibility
AirTag is designed to work seamlessly with devices running iOS 14 or later. To make the most out of your AirTag, it is essential to have an Apple ID and an iPhone or iPad with the latest iOS version installed. This ensures that your device is equipped with the necessary technology and security features to support AirTag functionalities such as the Find My app, loss mode, and precision finding.
iPhone Models
AirTag is compatible with a wide range of iPhone models, including the iPhone SE, iPhone 11, and iPhone 12 series. These models come with advanced hardware and technology that enable seamless integration with AirTag features. Here’s a quick list of the compatible iPhone models:
- iPhone SE (2nd generation)
- iPhone 12 Mini
- iPhone 12
- iPhone 12 Pro
- iPhone 12 Pro Max
- iPhone 11 Pro Max
- iPhone 11 Pro
- iPhone 11
Keep in mind that while AirTag is designed to work optimally with the latest iPhone models, it still functions with older devices running iOS 14, though some features may not be available. To enjoy the full range of AirTag functionalities, consider upgrading your device to a compatible model and ensure your iOS is up to date.
Airtag Accessories and Use Cases
Track Items
AirTags are Bluetooth-enabled devices that help you keep track of your belongings. Place them on items you want to keep an eye on, like your keys or wallet. The Find My app on your iPhone allows you to see the location of these tagged items and play a sound to help locate them if they are within 800 feet due to the Bluetooth 5.0 technology. You might want to consider investing in accessories such as key rings or adhesive mounts to securely attach AirTags to your valuables.
Bikes
AirTags can also be an effective way to track and locate your bike if it goes missing or if you simply forgot where you parked. There are specially designed AirTag bike mounts available that secure the AirTag on your bike’s frame or seat post. Just attach the AirTag to the mount and use the Find My app to keep tabs on your bicycle’s whereabouts. It is essential to know that the AirTag’s tracking within a range will primarily depend on the Bluetooth range and the presence of other compatible devices nearby to assist with location updates.
Pets
Pet owners can attach AirTags to their pets’ collars to help locate them should they wander off or go missing. There are AirTag pet collar accessories available in the market, which are designed to hold the AirTag securely while still being comfortable for your pet to wear. Keep in mind that while AirTags are not specifically designed for pet tracking, they can provide some peace of mind for pet owners who want a simple, affordable way to monitor their furry friends.
Security Measures and Concerns
With any tracking device, security measures and concerns are of utmost importance. Apple AirTags are designed to help users locate their belongings without compromising individuals’ privacy and safety. Key components of these security measures include a focus on anti-stalking features, as well as compatibility with Android phones.
Apple’s Anti-Stalking Features
Apple designed its AirTag technology to minimize the likelihood of them being used to stalk individuals. One anti-stalking feature Apple has implemented is unwanted tracking notifications. When an unknown AirTag is detected traveling with someone for an extended period, the person will receive a notification on their iPhone. This provides a warning that an unknown tracking device is near them, allowing them to take action and find the unknown AirTag.
For Android phone users, Apple introduced the Finder for AirTag app. Android users can download this app to detect nearby AirTags that are not linked to their devices, further reducing the potential for stalking across both the iOS and Android platforms.
Security measures are in place to ensure that AirTags cannot be used to track people without consent. For example, when an AirTag is detected accompanying someone other than its owner for a significant amount of time, the AirTag will play an audible alert, notifying individuals of its presence.
In summary, Apple’s AirTag technology prioritizes user safety and privacy, incorporating various security measures and protocols to minimize the risk of stalking or privacy invasion. By offering transparent tracking notifications, cross-platform support, and alerts for potential misuse, AirTags aim to let users locate their belongings with peace of mind.
AirTag Release and Availability
Apple introduced its much-anticipated AirTags in April 2021, which gained significant attention due to their seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem. These small, coin-shaped devices utilize Bluetooth technology to help users locate their lost belongings through the iPhone’s Find My app.
Upon release, AirTags were instantly available for order from Apple’s online store and various authorized resellers. As expected, they quickly became popular among Apple users who wanted a reliable way to keep track of their belongings.
The Apple AirTag battery life lasts approximately one year, depending on usage. This makes it an attractive option for individuals who want peace of mind without the need to constantly worry about charging or battery replacements. Additionally, the process of changing the battery is simple and straightforward – when it’s time for a new battery, users can easily open the AirTag by twisting the back cover.
In terms of compatibility, AirTags work with many Apple devices, including iPhone SE, iPhone 6s or later, iPad 5th generation or later, iPad Pro, iPad Air 3rd generation or later, and iPad mini 4th generation or later – all running iOS 14.5 or later. For Mac users, MacBook, MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, iMac, Mac mini, and Mac Pro models featuring macOS Big Sur 11.3 or later can also track AirTags via the Find My app.
Although it is obvious that AirTags have been designed primarily for Apple users, their widespread availability and impressive battery life make them an attractive solution to those seeking a reliable and easy-to-use item tracker.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I replace my AirTag battery?
Apple AirTag batteries are designed to last about one year, depending on usage. It is recommended to replace the battery when it reaches a low charge to maintain optimal performance.
What is the average lifespan of an AirTag battery?
The average lifespan of an AirTag battery is approximately one year, though this may vary depending on your usage. Individual results may differ based on factors like how often you use the Find My app to play sounds or track items.
Is the AirTag battery user-replaceable?
Yes, the AirTag battery is user-replaceable. It uses a CR2032 lithium coin battery which can be easily replaced by opening the AirTag and inserting a new battery.
Does AirTag give a low battery warning?
Yes, AirTag gives a low battery warning through the Find My app. If the battery charge is very low, a “Low Battery” alert will appear under the name of your AirTag in the app.
How does the battery life of AirTag compare to Tile Mate?
The battery life of an AirTag is similar to that of Tile Mate, both claiming to last around one year. However, individual results may vary based on usage patterns and factors such as the frequency of use with their respective tracking apps.
Can the AirTag battery performance be impacted by cold weather?
Like most batteries, the performance of the AirTag battery can be impacted by cold weather. Extremely low temperatures may slightly reduce the overall battery life or cause temporary performance issues. It is recommended to keep your AirTag in a moderate temperature environment to ensure optimal battery performance.