AirTag not connecting? How to fix it

⚡ Fast fix

• Make sure Bluetooth and Location Services are turned on.
• Restart your iPhone and try pairing again.
• Replace the AirTag battery with a fresh CR2032.
• Remove the AirTag in Find My and set it up again.

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AirTags can help you locate important items, such as your keys, wallet, or purse. You can even use AirTag bracelets for kids to always know where your children are. However, AirTags can only work when they actually connect to your iPhone®, which isn’t always the case.

But don’t worry. If your Apple AirTag is not connecting, this guide to AirTags will walk you through how to fix it with just a few easy steps.

Asurion Experts know tech inside and out, so we can offer guidance on everything from solving AirTag connectivity problems to setting up your new computer. Look no further for help with all your devices, including AirTags.

Check Bluetooth and location settings

If you’re frustrated and wondering why your AirTag isn't connecting, there are a few possible reasons. Try these steps first to resolve the location sharing issue.

You need both Bluetooth and Location Services to connect to an AirTag. Even if you’re pretty sure they’re already on, double-check this:

1. In the Settings app, go to Privacy & Security > Location Services.
2. Turn on Location Services if they’re off.
3. Back in the Home screen of the Settings app, select Bluetooth and turn it on if necessary.
4. While you’re still in Settings, go to Apps > Find My > Location. The location settings should either be While Using or Always.
5. Also, turn on Precise Location, if you have an iPhone 11 or newer.

Make sure you’re signed in to the correct iCloud® account. If there are any iOS updates available for your phone, install them so you have the latest iOS version.

While you’re thinking about using AirTags to track your own items, it’s worth taking steps to stop AirTag tracking from being used against you. With a few taps, you can find out if anyone’s using AirTags to track you and keep yourself safe.

Fix proximity and pairing issues

If you go through all of those steps but your new AirTag is still not connecting, try the following troubleshooting tips:

• Restart your phone to refresh Bluetooth and fix connectivity issues.
• Bring your AirPod closer to your iPhone during setup.
• Remove any duplicate or previously paired AirTags from your Find My app, as signal interference can disrupt your AirTag connection.
• If your AirTag is already set up, try moving closer and further away to help resolve connectivity issues.
• Make sure you’re connected to a strong Wi-Fi network or mobile data.
• Update your AirTag firmware if there’s an update available.

Check battery and AirTag hardware

If your AirTag isn’t connecting, it’s possible that the battery is dead or the device is installed incorrectly. Try these steps:

1. Press and rotate the stainless steel back of the AirTag counterclockwise until it stops.
2. Remove the cover and take out the battery.
3. Check the inside of the AirTag for physical damage or moisture that could cause AirTag setup issues.
4. Install a new CR2032 battery positive side up. The AirTag should make a sound once the new battery is in place.
5. Place the back cover back on by aligning the three tabs with the three slots on the AirTag.
6. Rotate the back cover clockwise until it comes to a stop.

A low battery can stop an AirTag from connecting, so it’s worth going through these steps to see if that fixes your connectivity issues. If you notice physical damage to the inside or outside the AirTag and can’t get it to work, it may be time to replace that AirTag.

Reset and try pairing again

If all else fails, you can always reset the AirTag and start from scratch with these steps:

1. Open the Find My app and go to Items.
2. Select the AirTag that’s not connecting.
3. Select Remove Item and confirm the removal by selecting Remove again.
4. Press and twist counterclockwise on the back of the AirTag to remove the cover.
5. Remove the old battery and then reinsert it.
6. Press down on the battery until you hear a click or a noise.
7. Repeat steps five and six four more times for a total of five. The fifth time, you should hear a different noise after you reinstall the battery.
8. Put the cover back on the AirTag and rotate it clockwise until it’s secure.

Update your iPhone if there’s an iOS update available. Then, repeat the AirTag pairing process.

If, after resetting and repairing your AirTag, you’re still experiencing problems, it may be time to contact Apple Support.