Because each AirTag ties to a single Apple Account, transferring the device or fixing a stubborn pairing problem requires a full factory reset. AppleInsider notes the procedure takes roughly a minute, but users should clear the area of children and pets, as the small tracker poses a choking risk.

To reset, hold the AirTag with the silver battery cover facing up, press and turn the cover clockwise until it releases, then remove the CR2032 cell. After a five‑second pause, reinsert the battery and repeat the removal‑insertion cycle five times; the fifth insertion triggers a distinct tone confirming the reset.

Once the tone sounds, snap the cover back on and let the iPhone detect the AirTag in the Find My app. If detection fails, tap the plus icon in Find My and follow the on‑screen prompts to reconnect. Identifying the generation is easy: second‑gen models omit the “Designed by Apple in California” line.