How to Fix an AirTag That Won’t Update Its Location?

Several reasons can prevent an AirTag from updating its location, including connectivity issues between the AirTag and iPhone, a depleted battery, disabled location services on the iPhone, and more.

It is important to note that AirTags do not generate their own location data. Rather, the device depends on nearby Apple devices to identify its location. With this in mind, we’re going to explore various methods to ensure the AirTag’s location remains current.

1. Enable Find My iPhone

You should first ensure that Find My iPhone service is active on your connected phone. Without this service, you won’t be able to track your AirTag’s location.

AirTags operate similarly to Find My iPhone, which is crucial for their proper functioning.

1. Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
2. Tap on your Apple ID at the top, which lists your iCloud account name.

   

3. Inside the Apple ID menu, select the Find My option.

   

4. Next, tap on Find My iPhone.

   

5. Ensure that both Find My iPhone and Find My Network options are turned on.

   

2. Enable Location Services

If location services are disabled on your phone, your AirTag’s location may not update.

Having location services enabled is crucial for precise AirTag tracking through Find My iPhone.

1. Access the Settings app on your iPhone.
2. Go to Privacy followed by Location Services.

   

3. In the Location Services menu, ensure the Location Services toggle is on.

   

4. Scroll down and select System Services.

   

5. Ensure that Find My iPhone and Mobile Network Search are enabled.

   

3. Enable Bluetooth

AirTags transmit a secure Bluetooth signal detected by nearby devices in the Find My network allowing their precise location to be tracked.

If your iPhone’s Bluetooth is off, you won’t be able to locate your AirTags.

1. Swipe down from the top-right corner of your iPhone’s screen to open the Control Center.
2. Tap the Bluetooth icon to enable it.

   

3. If Bluetooth is not in the Control Center, open the Settings and go to the Bluetooth section to switch it on.
4. Check if the issue is resolved.

4. Update iOS

A specific iOS version may have inconsistencies causing the AirTag to not update its location; such issues are often resolved in subsequent updates.

Ensure your phone is using the latest iOS version.

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Navigate to General.

   

3. Select Software Update.

   

4. Follow the prompts to install any available updates, tapping Update Now if offered.

   

5. Enable Two-Factor Authentication

Two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security and is necessary for using AirTags. Without it, AirTags may not update their location.

1. Open the Settings app and tap on your Apple ID at the top.

   

2. Go to Sign-In & Security.

   

3. Setup Two-Factor Authentication if it’s not already in place.

   

4. Check if the AirTag location updates properly now.

6. Reset AirTags

If the issue persists despite addressing potential phone-related issues, there may be a problem with the connection to your AirTag. A reset may help by eliminating any communication barriers.

1. Press down on the AirTag’s battery cover and rotate it counterclockwise until it stops.

   

2. Remove the cover and take out the battery.
3. Reinsert the battery after a few seconds and press down until you hear a sound, indicating a proper connection.

   

4. Perform this pressing step four times. The fifth attempt’s sound should differ, indicating the AirTag is ready to pair.
5. Bring your iPhone close to the AirTag and select Connect.

   

6. Follow the on-screen instructions to finish setting up.

7. Replace AirTag Battery

A dead battery can interrupt communication with Find My network and stop location updates.

Replace your AirTag’s CR2032 lithium 3V coin battery.

1. Remove the battery cover by pressing and rotating it counterclockwise.

   

2. Take out the old battery and insert a new one positive side up, pressing until you hear a sound.

   

3. Reassemble and check if the AirTag updates its location.

After trying these solutions, the AirTag should update normally. Should the problem remain, reach out to Apple support for further assistance or a potential replacement.