Apple’s AirTag makes it easy to keep track of everyday items like keys, bags and luggage using the Find My network. Setup is quick, requires no tools and only takes a minute or two as long as you have a compatible iPhone or iPad. When paired, your AirTag works silently in the background to help you find lost items. This guide walks you through how to set up an AirTag, how to name it so you can easily see what’s attached and what to do if the setup doesn’t go as planned.
What you need before setting up AirTag
Before you begin, make sure you have the following:
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iPhone or iPad signed in to your Apple Account
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Bluetooth is enabled on that device
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Location Services are enabled
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iOS or iPadOS 14.5 or later (Second generation AirTag requires iOS or iPadOS 26.2.1 or later)
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Stable Wi-Fi or mobile connection
You’ll also want to make sure that iCloud Keychain is enabled and that your Apple Account setup is fully completed in Settings.
How to set up AirTag using your iPhone or iPad
The easiest way to set up AirTag is with the on-screen setup command.
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Remove the plastic tab from your AirTag to open the battery.
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Hold the AirTag next to your unlocked iPhone or iPad.
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When the setup animation appears, tap Connect.
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Choose your category AirTagSuch as Keys, Backpack or Luggage. If you choose Name Customyou can type your label and choose an emoji.
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Tap Go ahead to connect AirTag to your Apple account.
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Tap Done to complete the setup.
Once completed, the AirTag will appear under the Things tab on Get my app. If you are setting up multiple AirTags, make sure only one is near your device at a time. If more than one is found, the notification “More than one AirTag found” will appear. If this happens, move some away and try again.
How to add an AirTag using the Find My app
If the setup animation doesn’t appear automatically, you can add the AirTag manually by using Find My.
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Open the Find My app on your iPhone or iPad.
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Select Add an AirTag or One thing (if you add the FindMy Network compatible service).
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Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup.
You can add up to 32 items to Find My, including AirTags, shared items and compatible resources. Once you’ve reached the limit, you’ll need to delete an item before adding a new one.
What to do if your AirTag won’t connect
If the setup fails or the pairing animation disappears, try the following steps:
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Lock yours The iPhone or The iPadturn it back on and wait about 15 seconds for the animation to appear again.
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Make sure Bluetooth and Location Services are turned on Settings.
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Check that out Find My you have permission to use Direct Location.
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Make sure you are signed in to your Apple Account again iCloud Keychain it is open.
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Make sure your device is running the latest version of iOS or iPadOS (iOS or iPadOS 26.2.1 or later).
If the AirTag still won’t connect, the battery may need to be replaced. AirTags use a standard CR2032 cell phone battery, and changing it only takes a minute. If problems persist after installing the battery, you may need to reset the AirTag and try setting it up again.
How to name and label your AirTag
Naming your AirTag makes it much easier to identify when you’re tracking multiple items. During setup, Apple provides preset labels such as Keys or Backpack, but you can customize these at any time.
To rename AirTag after setup:
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Tap Things and choose your own AirTag.
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Tap Add Name or Rename the Object.
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Choose a preset label or choose Name Custom.
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Optionally add an emoji for quick visual identification.
Clear labels are especially useful when using AirTag on travel, work gear or shared household items.
Apple AirTag (Engadget)
Attaching your AirTag to everyday objects
AirTags don’t have built-in clips or adhesives, so you’ll need a tool to attach them securely. Depending on how you plan to use it, that could mean a key ring, luggage tag, wallet insert or bike mount.
If you’re not sure which style works best, Engadget has rounded up the best Apple AirTag accessories, key cover options, wallets, purses and more. Choosing the right accessory helps ensure that your AirTag stays attached and performs as you expect.
Finish it
After setup, your AirTag will automatically update its location using the Apple Find My network. You can view its last known location, play a sound to help locate it or use Precision Finding on supported iPhones to guide you directly to it. With just a few minutes of setup and a clear label, AirTag can be a reliable way to keep track of your valuables, whether you’re at home or on the go.
