Apple AirTag Falls to Record $23 at Amazon and Walmart Ahead of Thanksgiving

Q: Why might buying the wrong replacement battery render your newly discounted 2nd-gen Apple AirTag completely useless?

Because the AirTag has no rechargeable backup and depends entirely on a compatible CR2032 coin cell, the wrong replacement battery can leave it unable to power on at all. Apple specifies a 3-volt CR2032 lithium battery. Using a different size, such as a CR2025 or CR2016, is not a reliable substitute and may fail to make proper contact or provide stable power. Even some CR2032 batteries can cause trouble: Apple and other reports note that certain bitterant-coated models, including some Duracell versions, may not seat correctly or make full electrical contact inside an AirTag. If that happens, the tag may appear dead, fail to reconnect to Find My, and become effectively useless until the battery is replaced again. That risk matters because AirTags do not recharge and do not function without a working battery. When a fresh battery is installed correctly, the AirTag should make a sound, confirming power. If it does not, the battery type, coating, brand compatibility, or orientation may be the problem. The practical fix is simple: buy a CR2032 3V lithium coin cell specifically labeled as compatible with Apple AirTag, insert it with the positive side facing up, and confirm the startup sound. Reputable uncoated or AirTag-compatible brands are generally the safest choice.

3 articles · Updated · The Verge · Oct 27

$23 marks a new low for Apple’s latest AirTag at Amazon and Walmart, trimming $6 off the item tracker as holiday travel demand starts to build.
Apple’s second-generation model stands out for iPhone users with ultra-wideband Precision Finding, stronger Bluetooth performance, and directional tracking from up to 50% farther away than the prior version.
Travel features add to the pitch: users can share an AirTag with up to five people and temporarily share a lost bag’s location with participating airlines including United and Delta.
The sale follows another record-low AirTag discount reported a day earlier, underscoring how retailers are leaning on holiday-season promotions for Apple accessories.