Skip to main content

How to turn on Apple Watch

Whether you just got your wearable or you just haven’t needed to turn it on in a while, read along with our guide for how to turn on Apple Watch.

It can be a rare instance when you need to turn on Apple Watch but whether you’re trying to fix a bug or it completely died on you, we’ll cover how to power on your wearable as well as turn it off below.

We’ll also look at what to do if your wearable won’t charge.

How to turn on Apple Watch

  1. Locate the side button (oval/pill shape) next to the Digital Crown
  2. Press and hold the side button for 3-5 seconds to turn it on
  3. If it doesn’t power on, place your watch on the charger
    • If it doesn’t charge, try a different outlet and/or a different charger if possible
    • Ideally, use the original charger that came with your watch
    • Make sure your wearable and charger are both clean
  4. If the battery is very low, a red lightning bolt will appear, that will turn green when it starts charging
  5. Let your Apple Watch charge for at least 30 minutes
  6. If it’s still not responding or charging, try a force restart

If you’re still having trouble, reach out to Apple Support or head to an Apple Store or Apple Authorized Service Provider

Here’s the side button if you’re unsure:

How to turn on Apple Watch tutorial

To turn off Apple Watch, press and hold the side button until you see the power off screen, then slide the power off slider to the right on watchOS 8 or earlier.

For watchOS 9, press and hold the side button, tap the power icon button in the top right corner of your screen, then slide the power off slider to the right.

Read more 9to5Mac tutorials:

FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.

You’re reading 9to5Mac — experts who break news about Apple and its surrounding ecosystem, day after day. Be sure to check out our homepage for all the latest news, and follow 9to5Mac on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn to stay in the loop. Don’t know where to start? Check out our exclusive stories, reviews, how-tos, and subscribe to our YouTube channel

Manage push notifications

notification icon
We would like to show you notifications for the latest news and updates.
notification icon
You are subscribed to notifications
notification icon
We would like to show you notifications for the latest news and updates.
notification icon
You are subscribed to notifications