How to Fix AirTag not Connecting - All Possible Fixes

Key Takeaways:

• AirTag connection problems commonly come from a weak or poorly seated battery, outdated firmware, Bluetooth or device-setting conflicts, another Apple Account, or location and network issues.
• Start with the battery, then remove the AirTag in Find My, reset it, and pair it again if the connection still fails.
• For a reset, press the battery until you hear five sounds; the fifth sound should be different before you pair the AirTag again.
• Keep Find My location access and Precise Location enabled, and update your iPhone and AirTag firmware when needed.
• If none of the fixes work, a tracker that works with Apple Find My, such as eufy SmartTrack, can replace the AirTag without changing apps.

AirTag provides an excellent way to keep tabs on your personal belongings when you're on a trip. However, there are situations where you might experience connection errors when trying to connect with AirTag. This can be very frustrating, but there's no need to panic.

Connection errors usually come from a few common causes that you can check on your own. This guide explains each cause and walks you through the fixes, starting with the battery. If your AirTag still won't connect after these fixes, you'll also find replacement trackers you can switch to.

Part 1: Why is AirTag Not Connecting?

AirTag could stop connecting due to the following reasons:

• Battery or Contact Issues: A damaged, depleted, or aging battery, or a battery that does not sit firmly against the internal contacts, may not provide the stable power AirTag needs to maintain a connection, leading to intermittent or failed communication with the paired device.
• Outdated AirTag Firmware: Older firmware may contain compatibility issues or unresolved bugs that affect how the AirTag communicates with the Find My network and nearby Apple devices.
• Bluetooth and Device Settings: AirTag depends on Bluetooth and compatible device software to exchange connection data. Conflicting settings or an unsupported system environment can prevent that communication from working normally.
• Paired to Another Account: An AirTag can be associated with only one Apple Account at a time. When it remains linked to a previous owner's account, the association prevents a new account from completing the connection.
• Network and Location Services: Find My connectivity depends on location access and network communication to exchange AirTag status and location data. Problems with either service can make the AirTag appear unavailable or fail to update.

Part 2: How to Fix AirTag Not Connecting

Now that you understand some of the reasons AirTag might not connect, let's dive right into the solutions to fix the problem.

Use this table to identify the fix that best matches the issue you see.

Once you've identified the likely cause, use the relevant fix below to restore your AirTag connection.

Fix 1: Check AirTag Battery

One of the first things you should always do when you experience connection errors with AirTag is to check the AirTag battery. To do this, open the 'Find My' app on your iPhone and do the following:

1. Click on the 'Items' tab and select your 'AirTag.'
2. If there's an alert indicator next to your AirTag that says 'Low Battery,' you need to get a new battery.

If your battery is not low, then you might have placed it incorrectly. The correct way to place the AirTag battery is to ensure that the 'Plus (+)' sign is facing upward.

If the battery is placed correctly but the AirTag still won't connect, check what type of battery you're using. Some CR2032 batteries have a bitter coating to discourage children from swallowing them. However, some of these coated batteries might not work with AirTag, so choose one labeled 'Compatible with Apple AirTag.'

Related Reading: How Long Does AirTag Battery Life Last?

Fix 2: Remove and Re-add AirTag on Find My Network

Remove, reset, and pair your AirTag again in six steps:

1. Open Find My, tap 'Items,' select your AirTag, and tap 'Remove Item' (tap 'Remove' again to confirm).
2. Press and rotate the battery cover counterclockwise, then remove the cover and battery.
3. Replace the battery and press it for about 2 seconds until you hear a sound; remove, replace, and press it again until you hear five sounds in total.
4. The fifth sound should be different. If it is not, continue until you hear a different sound.
5. Replace the battery cover.
6. Place the AirTag next to your iPhone and tap 'Connect' to pair it again.

AirTag (2nd generation) uses a different reset process, so check Apple's current instructions before resetting it.

Fix 3: Check AirTag Firmware Update

If the problem still persists, check your AirTag's firmware update. As mentioned earlier, AirTag requires its firmware to be updated regularly to be able to function properly. Use the following procedure to check and update your AirTag firmware:

1. Open the 'Find My' app on your iPhone and navigate to the 'Items' tab.
2. Select the 'AirTag' from the list of devices.
3. Tap on the AirTag's name and you should see its current firmware version. Check if it's the same as the current version Apple released.

Fix 4: Check your iPhone Location Settings

If your AirTag's firmware is up to date, try checking your iPhone location settings. You must ensure your iPhone location is not just turned on but also accessible to the Find My app. Here is how:

1. Go to your iPhone settings and select your name at the top.
2. Select 'Find My'.
3. Turn on the toggle next to 'Share My Location'.
4. After that, head back to the 'Settings main page' and select 'Privacy & Security'.
5. Choose 'Location Services'.
6. Scroll down to 'Find My', choose 'While Using the App' or 'Always', and turn on 'Precise Location'.

Fix 5: Update your iPhone

Updating your iPhone to its latest version is another reliable way to fix AirTag connection errors. This could get rid of bugs that might prevent your AirTag and iPhone from establishing a connection.

Follow the instructions below to update your iPhone:

1. Open your iPhone settings and select 'General.'
2. Choose 'Software Update.'
3. If a new iOS update is rolled out, please install it and check if your AirTag connects afterward.

Choose The Best AirTag Alternatives

If your AirTag still won't connect after every fix above, replacing it may be the simpler next step. Switching doesn't have to mean leaving the Find My app. The two eufy SmartTrack trackers below work with Apple Find My, and you can compare more options in our guide to the best AirTag alternatives.

1. eufy SmartTrack Link

The eufy SmartTrack Link is a smart tag designed for tracking items like key tracker, backpack, and luggage. This item tracking device uses a similar CR2032 replaceable battery as Apple AirTag. However, some of the features that make it stand out include:

• Its loud sound alarm.
• Silent mode tracking for tracking devices when in silent mode.
• Free left-behind alert, which sends you instant notification once you drop an item.

2. eufy SmartTrack Card E40

If you prefer a rechargeable card-shaped tracker, the eufy SmartTrack Card E40 fits easily into your wallet, passport holder, luggage, or bag with its 0.07-inch profile. It works with Apple Find My and Google Find Hub for iOS or Android devices and charges on a standard wireless charger, providing up to five months of tracking per charge.

Key Features

• Works with Apple Find My and Google Find Hub, one network at a time.
• Supports standard wireless charging and up to five months of tracking per charge.
• Its 0.07-inch, water-resistant design fits into wallet slots without bulging.
• Up to 80 dB loud alarm.

Related Blogs

Check out these articles for more information:

• How Often Does AirTag Update Location?
• Do AirTags Work with Android?
• How Far Can You Track an AirTag?

Conclusion

There you have it. You don't need any advanced knowledge to fix AirTag not connecting errors. As you can see from the article, there are several ways to approach the problem, such as replacing the AirTag's battery, updating its firmware, or updating your iPhone's iOS version.

Ultimately, if you want a more efficient item tracking device, the eufy smart trackers are the best choice to choose from.

FAQs

How Do You Reconnect AirTag After Replacing the Battery?

To reconnect an AirTag after replacing its battery, ensure the new battery is correctly installed with the positive side facing up. Once the battery is secured, your AirTag should automatically reconnect to your Find My network. If not, open the Find My app, select your AirTag, and follow the prompts to re-add it.

Why Is AirTag Not Showing Up on Your iPhone?

If your AirTag isn't showing up on your iPhone, there could be a few reasons:

• Poor battery.
• Verify that Bluetooth is enabled on your iPhone.
• Check for any pending software updates for both your iPhone and the AirTag firmware.
• Bring the AirTag closer to your iPhone to establish a connection.

Why Is AirTag Not Showing Signal?

An AirTag not showing signal might be caused by:

• Low battery. Ensure the battery is fresh and correctly oriented.
• Interference from nearby electronic devices or metal objects. Move to a less cluttered area.
• Outdated firmware. Bring the AirTag near your iPhone and ensure updates are installed.

Why Does My AirTag Keep Disconnecting?

Repeated drops often mean the AirTag isn't getting steady power, or the tag itself has a fault. If you've already replaced the battery and the problem continues, restart your iPhone. If the AirTag still keeps disconnecting, it may be faulty, so contact Apple to have it checked.

Why Is My AirTag Not Updating Its Location?

Usually, no Apple device is close enough to pick up its signal. Your AirTag relies on nearby iPhones, iPads, and Macs to send its location to Find My. In quiet or remote areas, few of these devices pass by. A low battery or a metal case that blocks the signal can also stop updates.