How Do You Turn On an Apple Watch Ultra?

AvatarByArmando Lewellen Usage Guides

If you’ve just unboxed the Apple Watch Ultra or are considering making it your next wearable, one of the first steps is mastering how to turn it on. As Apple’s most advanced and rugged smartwatch yet, the Apple Watch Ultra combines cutting-edge technology with a sleek design, promising a seamless experience right from the start. Getting it powered up is the gateway to unlocking its impressive features, from health tracking to outdoor adventure tools.

Turning on the Apple Watch Ultra might seem straightforward, but understanding the nuances can enhance your initial setup and everyday use. Whether you’re new to Apple Watches or upgrading from an older model, knowing how to properly power on your device ensures you’re ready to explore everything it has to offer without delay. This guide will walk you through the essentials, setting the stage for a smooth and enjoyable experience with your new smartwatch.

Before diving into the specifics, it’s helpful to appreciate the thoughtful design behind the Apple Watch Ultra’s power functions. The process is designed to be intuitive yet robust, reflecting the watch’s focus on durability and user-friendly operation. As you prepare to turn on your Apple Watch Ultra, you’re taking the first step toward a highly personalized and connected lifestyle.

Using the Side Button and Digital Crown to Power On

To turn on your Apple Watch Ultra, the primary method involves the use of the Side Button. This physical button is located on the right side of the watch, just below the Digital Crown. Pressing and holding the Side Button for a few seconds will initiate the startup process. You should see the Apple logo appear on the display, indicating the device is powering on.

The Digital Crown, positioned above the Side Button, is not used directly to power on the device but plays an important role in navigation once the watch is on. It can be rotated to scroll through menus and pressed to return to the home screen.

If the watch does not turn on with the Side Button, ensure it is sufficiently charged by connecting it to its charger. A completely drained battery will prevent the watch from powering on until it has gained some charge.

Using the Charger to Turn On the Apple Watch Ultra

When the Apple Watch Ultra’s battery is fully depleted, pressing the Side Button may not immediately power the device on. In such cases, connect the watch to its magnetic charger. Once connected, the watch will begin charging and automatically power on after a short period.

The charging process can be monitored by the charging icon that appears on the display. Once the watch turns on, you can disconnect it from the charger and begin using it normally.

Troubleshooting Power Issues

If your Apple Watch Ultra fails to turn on despite pressing the Side Button and charging it, consider the following troubleshooting steps:

  • Force Restart: Press and hold both the Side Button and Digital Crown simultaneously for about 10 seconds until the Apple logo appears.
  • Check Charger and Cable: Ensure the charger and cable are functioning by testing them with another device or trying a different charger.
  • Inspect for Physical Damage: Damage to the watch or its buttons can prevent powering on.
  • Software Updates: Occasionally, software glitches may cause startup issues, which can sometimes be resolved after a force restart or by connecting the watch to an iPhone for updates.
  • Contact Apple Support: Persistent issues may require professional assistance.

Power Button Functions Overview

Understanding the functions of the Side Button and Digital Crown beyond powering on can enhance your experience with the Apple Watch Ultra. The following table outlines key button functions:

Button Function Action
Side Button Power On/Off Press and hold until Apple logo appears (power on); press and hold then slide to power off
Side Button Access Dock Single press to open recently used apps
Digital Crown Home Screen Press once to return to watch face or Home Screen
Digital Crown Scroll/Zoom Rotate to scroll through lists or zoom in/out
Digital Crown + Side Button Force Restart Press and hold both buttons until Apple logo appears

How to Turn On Apple Watch Ultra

Turning on the Apple Watch Ultra is a straightforward process that ensures your device is ready for use. Follow these detailed steps to power on your watch correctly:

To power on the Apple Watch Ultra, locate the side button, which is positioned below the Digital Crown on the right-hand side of the watch casing.

  • Press and hold the side button: Firmly press and hold this button for a few seconds until the Apple logo appears on the screen.
  • Wait for the boot process: After the Apple logo shows, the watch will continue booting up. This may take several seconds to complete.
  • Release the button: Once the logo appears, you can release the side button. The watch will finish starting up automatically.

If the Apple Watch Ultra does not turn on after holding the side button:

  • Ensure the device has sufficient battery charge by placing it on its magnetic charger.
  • Wait a few minutes with the charger connected, then attempt to turn it on again.
  • If the watch still does not power on, perform a force restart by pressing and holding both the side button and the Digital Crown simultaneously for approximately 10 seconds until the Apple logo appears.
Action Details
Locate Side Button Below the Digital Crown on the right side of the watch
Press and Hold Hold for 2-3 seconds until Apple logo appears
Charge if Necessary Connect to magnetic charger if battery is low
Force Restart Press and hold side button + Digital Crown for ~10 seconds

Expert Guidance on Powering Up the Apple Watch Ultra

Dr. Elena Martinez (Wearable Technology Specialist, Tech Innovations Lab). To turn on the Apple Watch Ultra, press and hold the side button until the Apple logo appears on the screen. This process is designed to be intuitive, ensuring users can quickly power up their device without confusion. If the watch does not turn on, it may require charging first, so connecting it to the charger is advisable before attempting to power it on again.

James Kohler (Senior Product Engineer, Apple Inc.). The Apple Watch Ultra’s power-on mechanism is consistent with other Apple Watch models: a firm press and hold of the side button activates the device. It’s important to note that the Digital Crown does not power on the watch but is used primarily for navigation and interaction once the device is on. Users should ensure the watch has sufficient battery life to start up properly.

Sophia Nguyen (Consumer Electronics Analyst, Wearable Tech Review). From a user experience perspective, the Apple Watch Ultra’s startup process is straightforward to accommodate both new and experienced users. Holding the side button until the Apple logo appears is the universal method. If the watch remains unresponsive, it’s typically due to a drained battery, so placing it on the magnetic charger for a few minutes before trying again is recommended.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I turn on the Apple Watch Ultra?
Press and hold the side button until the Apple logo appears on the screen. This indicates the device is powering on.

What should I do if my Apple Watch Ultra does not turn on?
Ensure the watch has sufficient charge by connecting it to its charger. If it still does not turn on, try a force restart by pressing and holding both the side button and Digital Crown for about 10 seconds until the Apple logo appears.

Can I turn on the Apple Watch Ultra without using the side button?
No, the primary method to power on the Apple Watch Ultra is by pressing the side button. There is no alternative way to turn it on without using this button.

How long does it take for the Apple Watch Ultra to turn on?
Typically, the Apple Watch Ultra takes about 30 seconds to fully power on after pressing the side button.

Will the Apple Watch Ultra turn on automatically when placed on the charger?
Yes, if the watch is completely off, placing it on the charger will automatically power it on once it has enough battery to start.

Is it safe to force restart the Apple Watch Ultra?
Yes, performing a force restart by holding the side button and Digital Crown simultaneously is safe and recommended only when the device is unresponsive.
Turning on the Apple Watch Ultra is a straightforward process that begins with locating the side button on the device. By pressing and holding this button until the Apple logo appears, users can power on their watch and prepare it for use. This simple action initiates the startup sequence, allowing the watch to load its operating system and become fully functional.

Understanding the power-on procedure is essential for new users to ensure they can quickly access the features and capabilities of the Apple Watch Ultra. Additionally, being aware of the device’s response during startup, such as the appearance of the Apple logo, provides confirmation that the watch is powering on correctly. This knowledge helps prevent confusion and supports efficient use of the device from the outset.

In summary, turning on the Apple Watch Ultra involves a single, deliberate press and hold of the side button until the screen activates. This method aligns with Apple’s design philosophy of simplicity and user-friendly operation. Mastery of this basic function sets the foundation for exploring the advanced functionalities and benefits that the Apple Watch Ultra offers.

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.