Since the AirTag launched earlier this year, and should have a one-year battery life, it may take some time before users need to a replacement battery. But Apple, moving forward, has warned customers that some batteries with a bitter coating may not work.
Apple urges users not to use the bitter-coated battery for AirTags
AirTags use CR2032 battery coin-shaped, which are easy to swallow in size. Some battery manufacturers like Duracell have started putting a bitter coating on CR2032 batteries to prevent children from swallowing them. According to Duracell, hundreds of lithium button batteries are accidentally ingested by children each year and can cause a harmful chemical reaction. The non-toxic bitter coating reacts with saliva and is intended to discourage swallowing.
Photo: Duracell.
As The Loop points out, Apple’s AirTag battery replacement support document that was released earlier this month specifically warns against bitter coating. In fact, he claims it could prevent battery operation.
“Bitter-coated CR2032 batteries may not work with AirTag or other battery-powered products, depending on how the coating is aligned with the battery contacts.” writes Apple.
Apple would imply that the coating, in fact, if not well aligned could no longer make the battery contacts work. And, consequently, the device. So basically, it tells users that they can use this type of battery at their own risk.
Problems in Australia
Apple’s use of the CR2032 battery has been a problem in Australia and some Australian retailers have refused to sell AirTags due to the easy access to the battery. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission has issued a press release urging parents to keep AirTags out of the reach of children. The motivation? According to the ACCC, there are safety concerns related to the “accessibility and safety of the coin cell battery inside the product”.
The AirTag battery is accessible pressing and turning the accessory to open it. Which the ACCC believes is simple enough for children to understand. Our advice is to try to buy those with a bitter coating, therefore childproof; and in the event that they do not work, use normal batteries keeping the AirTag absolutely out of reach of the little ones.