AirTag Not Connecting: Quick Fixes to Get You Started Again

An AirTag helps you locate personal belongings, but it can be stressful when it fails to connect to your phone. There could be several reasons why it is unable to connect or become discoverable. It might be an issue with your phone, Apple ID, or AirTag itself.

In this guide, we will discuss possible reasons it may not connect. We will provide a step-by-step guide to get it operational again.

Why Is My AirTag Not Connecting

Why is the new AirTag Not Connecting?

Once you unpack the new AirTag, you must remove the battery tag. After removing it, it should chime; otherwise, there could be an issue with the battery fixing. Setting up a new AirTag also requires your phone to be connected to the internet and for location services to be turned on. If any of them is not available, it will fail to connect with your phone.

Also, make sure your phone is unlocked while pairing, and the iOS should be updated to 15 or later. In some cases, AirTag still fails to connect due to system issues or some temporary files. To resolve this, restart your phone and reconnect the AirTag.

Source: Why New Air Tag Won’t Connect?

Why Is Used AirTag Not Connecting?

Apple has implemented a strong anti-theft technology so no one can steal it or use it directly. If the AirTag is still connected with the previous owner's Find My app, it will never connect with your phone, even if you reset it. If you try to reset the AirTag, it will automatically reconnect to the previous owner. Only a successful removal from the previous owner's device can solve the issue.

Other than that, there could be battery drainage that doesn't allow it to use BLE for longer. Moreover, physical damage or corrosion may also cause connection issues. It needs a safe storage and a low-moisture environment to last longer.

Why Is My AirTag Not Connecting New Phone

Switching to a new phone may cause delays while connecting the AirTag. The issues mainly persist due to a lack of connection to iCloud or synchronization problems. You should quickly sign in to the new phone with the same ID and enable Find My App.

Another issue could be disabled Find My App or iCloud Sync. You might face issues if you are using a different Apple ID. In this case, AirTag should be removed from the previous ID, and a reset is also required. You should pair it with the new ID and have a strong internet connection.

Quick Fix For AirTag Not Connecting

Initially, make sure the iOS version is updated and check that the phone has a stable internet connection. Also, enable Bluetooth for nearby visibility. Try restarting your iPhone as it will clear the temporary files, which might be preventing your phone from connecting to AirTag.

Check your Find My App and location services and keep them enabled. Moreover, keep your iCloud signed in and synchronized to avoid any delays. It might be possible that your battery is draining earlier. You should replace the battery with a new one.

Step-by-Step Guide to Fix AirTag Not Connecting

Follow the steps to fix the AirTag not connecting.

1. Enable Bluetooth and iCloud synchronization. Also, make sure you have a stable internet connection.
2. Change the location service settings to "Always" to keep updated at every moment.
3. Keep the AirTag as close to your device and check if it's showing on Find My App or not.
4. If it is still not appearing, remove the battery and reinsert it. Also, please restart your phone and repair the AirTag.
5. If you are still facing issues, please check if it is paired with the previous owner. Quickly ask to remove and reset it to pair again with your Apple ID.

How To Reset AirTag

Resetting an AirTag is easier, but you need to follow the steps carefully.

1. Press the stainless steel back and rotate counterclockwise to open it.
2. Remove the battery and wait for a few minutes. Insert the battery again and ensure it chimes upon successful power.
3. Repeat the process five times. Remove the battery again and reinsert it. When you insert the battery for the 6th time, it will chime with a different sound. The different sound shows that the device has been reset.
4. Attach the back cover by rotating it in the clockwise direction. In the end, start pairing your device.

Source: How to Reset Your AirTag?

FAQs

1. Why is my phone not picking up an AirTag?

There could be several reasons why your phone is not picking up the AirTag. One of the major reasons is Bluetooth or Find My App disability. It could be that your battery is not working properly.

2. Why do I make AirTag discoverable again?

You should ensure that Bluetooth and location services are turned on. You should restart your phone or the Find My app to make it discoverable again. If it is still not discoverable, please replace the battery.

3. How do I force my AirTag to connect?

Replace the dead battery or hold it tightly.
Restart your iPhone or reset AirTag.
Keep your iCloud signed in and synchronized.

Conclusion

AirTag connection problems are common and can be resolved if you know how to fix them. Understanding how AirTag works via Bluetooth and the Find My App will make troubleshooting easier. There might be physical or technical issues with any device, but they can be fixed easily. We have shared reasons why AirTag might not connect, along with some quick fixes to help you connect it without any hassle.