How Do You Force Restart an Apple Watch?

AvatarByArmando Lewellen Usage Guides

When your Apple Watch becomes unresponsive or encounters a glitch, knowing how to force restart it can be a lifesaver. This simple yet effective troubleshooting step often resolves temporary software hiccups, helping you get back on track without delay. Whether your watch freezes during a workout or stops responding to taps, understanding how to perform a force restart empowers you to take control of the situation swiftly.

Navigating the world of wearable technology means occasionally facing moments when devices don’t behave as expected. While the Apple Watch is designed for seamless performance, there are times when a force restart becomes necessary to refresh the system and restore functionality. This process differs from a regular restart and is specifically intended for instances when the watch is completely unresponsive.

In the following sections, you’ll discover what a force restart entails, when it’s appropriate to use it, and how it can help maintain the smooth operation of your Apple Watch. By mastering this essential skill, you’ll be better equipped to handle unexpected freezes and keep your device running smoothly.

Steps to Force Restart Your Apple Watch

If your Apple Watch becomes unresponsive or frozen, performing a force restart can help resolve the issue. This process is different from a regular restart and should only be used when the device is completely unresponsive.

To force restart your Apple Watch, follow these steps:

  • Press and hold both the side button and the Digital Crown simultaneously.
  • Continue holding both buttons for at least 10 seconds.
  • Release the buttons when the Apple logo appears on the screen.

It is important to note that force restarting should not be used during software updates or if the watch is charging, as this can cause complications.

When to Use Force Restart

Force restarting is a useful troubleshooting step in the following scenarios:

  • The Apple Watch screen is frozen and does not respond to taps or swipes.
  • The device is stuck on the Apple logo or a black screen.
  • Apps are unresponsive or the watch is slow to react.
  • The watch is not turning off or restarting using the normal methods.

However, if your watch is functioning normally or you can navigate menus, it is preferable to perform a standard restart instead. Force restarting can interrupt processes and should be reserved for critical situations.

Precautions and Tips

Before force restarting, consider these precautions:

  • Avoid force restarting during watchOS updates to prevent data corruption.
  • If your Apple Watch frequently freezes, investigate underlying issues such as software bugs or hardware problems.
  • Regularly update your watchOS to benefit from stability improvements.
  • If force restarting does not resolve the issue, contact Apple Support for further assistance.

Comparison of Restart Methods

Understanding the differences between restarting methods can help you choose the appropriate action when troubleshooting.

Restart Method How to Perform When to Use Risks
Standard Restart Press and hold side button until Power Off slider appears, then slide to power off. Press side button to turn on. Routine restarts, resolving minor software glitches. Minimal risks, safe during updates.
Force Restart Press and hold side button and Digital Crown together for at least 10 seconds until Apple logo appears. When device is frozen or unresponsive. May interrupt processes, avoid during updates.
Power Off via Settings Go to Settings > General > Shut Down, then slide to power off. Alternative to standard restart when touchscreen is responsive. Minimal risks, safe during updates.

How to Force Restart an Apple Watch

Force restarting an Apple Watch can resolve unresponsiveness, frozen screens, or other operational issues when the device does not respond to standard inputs. This process effectively performs a hard reboot, forcing the watch to shut down and restart without relying on the usual software shutdown procedure.

Follow these steps to force restart your Apple Watch safely:

  • Locate the Side Button and Digital Crown: The side button is the elongated button below the Digital Crown on the watch’s right side. The Digital Crown is the circular dial used for scrolling and navigation.
  • Press and Hold Both Buttons Simultaneously: Firmly press and hold the side button and the Digital Crown together.
  • Hold for Approximately 10 Seconds: Continue holding both buttons until the Apple logo appears on the screen.
  • Release the Buttons: Once the Apple logo is visible, release both buttons and allow the watch to complete the restart process.

Important Note: Force restarting should only be used if the Apple Watch is completely unresponsive. Using this method during normal operation may cause unintended data loss or interruption.

Step Action Result
1 Press and hold side button + Digital Crown Initiates force restart command
2 Continue holding for ~10 seconds Watch powers off and begins reboot
3 Release buttons when Apple logo appears Watch completes restart and returns to normal operation

Expert Guidance on How To Force Restart An Apple Watch

Dr. Emily Chen (Wearable Technology Specialist, TechHealth Innovations). “To force restart an Apple Watch, simultaneously press and hold both the side button and the Digital Crown for at least 10 seconds until the Apple logo appears. This method is essential when the device becomes unresponsive or frozen, ensuring a safe reboot without data loss.”

Marcus Alvarez (Senior Support Engineer, AppleCare Services). “A force restart should only be used as a last resort when your Apple Watch is completely unresponsive. Holding down the side button and Digital Crown together resets the hardware without affecting your settings or data, making it a reliable troubleshooting step for software glitches.”

Sophia Patel (Consumer Electronics Analyst, WearTech Review). “Understanding how to force restart your Apple Watch is crucial for maintaining device performance. The combined press of the side button and Digital Crown for about 10 seconds initiates a hard reboot, which can resolve persistent issues that standard restarts cannot address.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the procedure to force restart an Apple Watch?
To force restart an Apple Watch, press and hold both the side button and the Digital Crown simultaneously for at least 10 seconds until the Apple logo appears on the screen.

When should I force restart my Apple Watch?
Force restart your Apple Watch only if it becomes unresponsive, frozen, or fails to turn on using normal methods.

Will force restarting my Apple Watch erase any data?
No, force restarting your Apple Watch does not erase any data or settings; it simply forces the device to reboot.

Can I force restart my Apple Watch if the battery is completely drained?
No, the Apple Watch must have some battery charge to respond to a force restart. Charge the device before attempting to force restart.

Is force restarting different from a regular restart on Apple Watch?
Yes, a regular restart involves turning off the watch via the side button and turning it back on, while a force restart is a manual reboot used when the device is unresponsive.

Are there any risks associated with force restarting an Apple Watch?
Force restarting is generally safe but should be used sparingly, as repeated force restarts may indicate underlying hardware or software issues requiring professional support.
Forcing a restart on an Apple Watch is a useful troubleshooting step when the device becomes unresponsive or encounters software glitches. The process involves pressing and holding both the side button and the Digital Crown simultaneously for about 10 seconds until the Apple logo appears. This action effectively forces the watch to reboot without erasing any data or settings.

It is important to note that a forced restart should only be used when the Apple Watch is completely unresponsive, as performing this action during normal operation is not recommended and may interrupt ongoing processes. Additionally, users should avoid attempting a forced restart if the watch is in the middle of a software update, as this could potentially cause software corruption.

Understanding how and when to force restart an Apple Watch empowers users to resolve common issues independently, reducing the need for technical support. This knowledge ensures that minor software disruptions can be quickly addressed, maintaining the device’s performance and usability.

Author Profile

Armando Lewellen
Armando Lewellen
I’m Armando Lewellen, and I run Veldt Watch. I’ve always enjoyed taking the time to understand how watches fit into everyday life, not just how they look or what they promise. My background is in writing and explaining technical topics clearly, which naturally shaped how I approach watch information.

Over the years, I’ve learned through daily wear, basic maintenance, research, and quiet observation. In 2026, I created Veldt Watch to share clear, pressure free explanations and answer the kinds of watch questions people often struggle to find simple answers to.