How to Fix an AirTag That’s Not Updating Location (11 Solutions)

If your Apple AirTag has stopped updating its location, don’t panic. In most cases, getting your item tracker working properly again is a quick fix.

This comprehensive guide provides 11 expert solutions to resolve AirTag location issues. Whether it’s a dead battery, Bluetooth glitch, or incorrect settings, you’ll be able to pinpoint and resolve the problem fast.

Why Is My AirTag Not Updating Its Location?

There are several potential reasons your AirTag may fail to update location:

• Depleted battery
• Bluetooth connection issues
• Incorrect Find My app settings
• Location services disabled
• Outdated firmware
• Physical damage
• Geographic restrictions

Let’s dive into each of these issues in detail and walk through the step-by-step solutions.

Fix 1: Replace the AirTag Battery

The most common cause of AirTag location problems is a dead battery. AirTags use a standard CR2032 coin cell battery that typically lasts about one year. Once the battery runs out, your AirTag will no longer update its location.

Signs it’s time to replace the battery:

• Find My app shows “Not Reachable” error
• No notifications when AirTag is out of range
• Location not updating even when moved
• Battery is 12+ months old

To replace the AirTag battery:

1. Press down on the stainless steel battery cover and rotate counterclockwise.
2. Carefully remove the old CR2032 battery.
3. Insert a new CR2032 battery with the positive (+) side facing up.
4. Press the battery down until it clicks into place.
5. Replace the cover by aligning the three slots and rotating clockwise until it locks.

After installing a new battery, your AirTag should resume updating location within 15-30 minutes. If not, continue to the next solutions below.

Fix 2: Enable Bluetooth on Your iPhone

AirTags rely on Bluetooth to communicate location data to your iPhone and other Apple devices. If Bluetooth is switched off, your AirTag simply won’t be able to connect and share its position.

To enable Bluetooth:

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Tap Bluetooth.
3. Toggle the Bluetooth switch to the On position.

Ensure Bluetooth is enabled on your iPhone for AirTag to function.

With Bluetooth active, open the Find My app and check if your AirTag begins updating location. If not, move on to the next potential solution.

Fix 3: Check Your AirTag Connection

For your AirTag to work correctly, it must be properly linked to your iCloud account. Without this connection, the Find My network won’t be able to associate the AirTag’s location with your devices.

Here’s how to confirm your AirTag is linked:

1. Open the Find My app.
2. Tap the Items tab.
3. Select your AirTag from the list.
4. On the details screen, look for your Apple ID under “Owner“.

Make sure your AirTag is linked to your personal Apple ID in Find My.

If you see a different Apple ID or none listed, you’ll need to reset the AirTag and reconnect it to your account. Follow the battery removal process from Fix 1, repeating the removal and reinsertion until you hear a reset chime. Then set up the AirTag again with your Apple ID.

Fix 4: Enable Location Services

Your iPhone’s Location Services settings allow apps to determine your current position. For AirTags to update location, these settings must be configured properly.

To enable the correct Location Services:

1. Open the Settings app and tap Privacy.
2. Select Location Services.
3. Ensure Location Services is toggled On.
4. Scroll down and tap Share My Location, then enable this setting.
5. While in Location Services, scroll to Find My and select While Using the App.

Give the Find My app full Location access to avoid AirTag issues.

With Location Services properly enabled, your AirTag should start updating regularly. If issues persist, proceed to the next troubleshooting steps.

Fix 5: Recalibrate the AirTag Location

A simple way to force your AirTag’s location to refresh is to move it a short distance. If the tracker has been idle for an extended period, briefly carrying it with you can recalibrate its positioning systems.

To recalibrate your AirTag’s location:

1. Attach the AirTag to your keys, wallet, or another easy to carry item.
2. Walk around your home or office for 2-3 minutes, gently shaking the item.
3. Check if the location has updated in the Find My app.
4. If not, take a brief walk outside or around the block to move the AirTag further.

The combination of movement and a change of environment can jumpstart your AirTag to resume reporting its location accurately.

Pro Tip: The wheel well is an ideal place to hide an AirTag for tracking your car’s location. The metal helps conceal it while still allowing Bluetooth signals to transmit.

Fix 6: Reset Your AirTag

If the above solutions haven’t resolved your AirTag’s location issue, resetting it to factory settings may be needed. This process removes any potential software glitches or pairing errors and allows you to reconnect the device from scratch.

Note that resetting will delete any assigned AirTag name, emoji or custom settings.

To reset your AirTag:

1. Press down and rotate the stainless steel battery cover counterclockwise to open.
2. Remove the battery and wait 30 seconds.
3. Reinsert the battery, pressing down until you hear a chime indicating reset.
4. Replace the cover by aligning tabs and rotating clockwise until it locks.
5. Hold your iPhone near the AirTag to begin the first-time setup process again.

Fully resetting your AirTag can resolve stubborn software issues.

After resetting, your AirTag will re-pair and should resume location updates. Be sure to customize any desired settings after the reset.

Pro Tip: If your AirTag starts making unexpected beeping noises, use this guide to diagnose the cause and stop the sounds.

Fix 7: Update iOS and AirTag Firmware

Keeping your iPhone’s iOS version and AirTag’s internal firmware up to date is crucial for smooth performance. Running outdated software can lead to bugs and compatibility issues that may prevent location updates.

To update your iPhone:

1. Open the Settings app and tap General.
2. Select Software Update.
3. If an iOS update is available, tap Download and Install.

Installing iOS updates can resolve AirTag bugs and glitches.

Your AirTag should automatically update to new firmware versions when in Bluetooth range of your iPhone. The Find My app will indicate if an AirTag firmware update has been completed in the last 24 hours.

Fix 8: Toggle Airplane Mode

Often, toggling your iPhone’s wireless radios can clear up any minor connectivity bugs that are interfering with AirTag location updates. Turning on Airplane Mode temporarily disables Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, allowing them to reset.

To toggle Airplane Mode:

1. Open the Control Center on your iPhone.
2. Tap the Airplane Mode icon to enable it.
3. Wait 20-30 seconds.
4. Tap the Airplane Mode icon again to disable it.

Check the Find My app to see if your AirTag’s location now updates correctly after the Airplane Mode reset.

Fix 9: Improve Network Connectivity

Although AirTags primarily use Bluetooth and the Find My network to determine location, your iPhone still needs a stable internet connection to retrieve and display the positioning data in the Find My app.

AirTags do not require Wi-Fi to function, but connecting to the internet allows the Find My app to update locations much faster than with Bluetooth alone.

Ways to resolve network connectivity problems:

• Move closer to your Wi-Fi router to improve signal strength
• Connect to a different Wi-Fi network
• Disable any active VPN connection
• Turn off Low Data Mode
• Reset your network settings in iOS

Confirming your iPhone has a strong, reliable Wi-Fi or cellular connection will ensure the Find My app can receive your AirTag’s location updates without interruption.

Fix 10: Inspect for Physical Damage

While AirTags are built durably, significant physical damage can cause malfunctions. AirTags can withstand temperatures up to 140°F (60°C), but more extreme conditions may harm their internal components.

Carefully inspect your AirTag for signs of damage if it has stopped updating location.

Things to check for:

• Cracks, dents, or punctures in the white plastic casing
• Broken or missing battery cover
• Water exposure or corrosion inside battery compartment
• Swollen, leaking, or otherwise damaged battery

Any visible external or internal damage will likely require complete replacement of the AirTag. Contact Apple Support for potential repair or replacement options.

Fix 11: Be Aware of Regional Restrictions

The ultra-wideband technology that powers AirTags’ precision tracking is restricted or prohibited by regulations in some countries. Travelers should be aware that AirTags may not update location in regions where ultra-wideband is banned, such as Indonesia and Nepal.

To avoid any unintended AirTag disruptions while abroad:

• Research local ultra-wideband regulations before travel
• Consider removing AirTags from luggage when visiting restricted countries
• Understand AirTags will resume normal functions when back in an approved region

Pro Tip: Protect your important travel documents by using an AirTag-enabled passport holder. You’ll be able to track your passport’s location in case it gets lost or stolen.

While regional restrictions are rare, they’re important to keep in mind to avoid confusion if your normally reliable AirTag stops updating location when overseas.

Key Takeaways

Getting your AirTag to update location consistently is crucial for finding lost items. Some quick tips to keep your AirTag working properly:

• Replace the CR2032 battery every 12 months
• Always keep Bluetooth enabled on your iPhone
• Only pair AirTags with your personal Apple ID
• Allow the Find My app full Location Services access
• Update iOS and AirTag firmware whenever available
• Be mindful of regional ultra-wideband restrictions while traveling

If you do encounter an AirTag that’s not updating location, remember to try these troubleshooting steps:

1. Replace battery
2. Enable Bluetooth
3. Confirm paired to your Apple ID
4. Ensure correct Location settings
5. Move AirTag to recalibrate
6. Factory reset as needed
7. Update iOS and firmware
8. Toggle Airplane Mode
9. Improve internet connectivity
10. Inspect for damage
11. Remove when traveling to restricted regions

By following these best practices and proven solutions, you can resolve location issues and keep your AirTag working optimally when you need it most.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you update AirTag location without an iPhone?

No, you must have an iPhone or iPad with “Notify When Found” enabled in Find My to force your AirTag to update location. Android devices and other Bluetooth trackers cannot directly ping AirTags.

Why is my AirTag location not updating in the Find My app?

The most common causes are a dead battery, Bluetooth turned off, or no internet connection. Replace the battery, enable Bluetooth, connect to Wi-Fi or cellular, and ensure Location Services are allowed for the Find My app.

How close does my iPhone need to be to update AirTag location?

Your iPhone must be within standard Bluetooth range which is about 30 feet (10 meters). If separated further, the AirTag will update location only when another device in the Find My network comes within range.

How often should AirTag location update?

AirTags automatically update location every 1-5 minutes when in Bluetooth range of their paired iPhone/iPad. Locations updates occur less frequently when relying on the wider Find My network.

Can I get notified if my AirTag location is not updating?

Yes, enable the “Notify When Found” option for your AirTag in the Find My app. You’ll receive a push notification alerting you if your AirTag has not updated location as expected.

Can I use AirTags to track people?

Apple does not recommend using AirTags to track people without their consent. AirTags are primarily intended for locating personal items, not people or pets. AirTags play a sound after being separated from their owner for an extended period to alert anyone nearby and prevent unwarranted tracking.

Can I attach an AirTag to my dog’s collar?

It is not advisable to use an AirTag for tracking your dog or other pets. AirTags are designed for items, not living creatures, and may not withstand the elements or your pet’s activity. The Bluetooth range is also too limited for effective pet tracking. A dedicated GPS pet tracker is a safer, more reliable option.

Conclusion

While AirTag location issues can be stressful, this guide provides all the information needed to troubleshoot confidently. From simple fixes like replacing the battery to more advanced methods like resetting or updating firmware, you now have an arsenal of solutions to keep your AirTag updating location smoothly.

Attaching an AirTag to your valuable items provides peace of mind knowing you can track them down if lost. Read our hands-on AirTag review to learn more about the many benefits and innovative features Apple packed into these tiny Bluetooth trackers.

With the knowledge from this guide, you’ll be able to rely on your AirTags for years to come no matter what location mysteries arise. Just remember to follow the recommended battery replacement schedule and keep an eye out for any software updates to prevent problems before they occur.

And if your AirTag does stop reporting its whereabouts again, you’re now well-equipped to solve the issue and get it back online quickly. Happy tracking!