No, it doesn't use any batteries, which is nice that I don't have to worry about charging it. The chip inside is energized when touched to the NFC on a phone. Or you can just scan the QR if you don't have NFC. It cannot actively track your bag, but it does send an automatic email with it's location on a google map when it is read. A person can also leave notes if they left it with the gate agent or in the CPO, for example.