To open an Apple AirTag, press down on the polished stainless steel battery cover with your palm and rotate it counterclockwise (to the left) until it stops. Then you can lift the cover off to access the battery. When closing it, place the cover back on, press down slightly, and rotate clockwise until it locks with a click. This method allows you to open the AirTag safely to replace the battery or inspect the inside without tools in most cases.

If the cover is hard to turn or open, using some grip aids like rubber gloves, a kitchen cloth, or sticky tape can help get better traction. Some users have also found that careful use of a thin tool or sticky tape to assist in twisting can make it easier to open the AirTag when it feels stuck.

In summary:

• Place AirTag with the metal cover facing up on your palm.
• Press down firmly on the cover.
• Twist counterclockwise until it releases.
• Remove the cover to open.
• To close, align tabs, press, and twist clockwise until it clicks.

This is the standard and recommended way to open an AirTag for battery replacement or inspection.