How Do You Turn On An Apple Watch?

AvatarByArmando Lewellen Usage Guides

Turning on an Apple Watch for the first time or after it has powered down might seem like a simple task, but for new users, it can sometimes be a bit confusing. Whether you’ve just unboxed your sleek new device or are trying to revive it after a battery drain, knowing how to properly power it on is the essential first step to unlocking all its impressive features. The Apple Watch is designed to be intuitive and user-friendly, yet understanding the basics ensures a smooth start to your wearable tech experience.

In this article, we’ll explore the fundamental process of turning on your Apple Watch, setting the stage for you to dive into its many capabilities. From understanding the watch’s buttons to recognizing the signs that it’s powering up, you’ll gain a clear picture of what to expect. This overview will help you feel confident and ready to make the most of your device right from the moment it comes to life.

Whether you’re upgrading from an older model or just starting your journey with Apple’s popular smartwatch, mastering this initial step is key. Stay with us as we guide you through the essentials of turning on your Apple Watch, ensuring you’re well-prepared to explore its full potential.

Powering On Your Apple Watch

To turn on an Apple Watch, press and hold the side button located below the Digital Crown until the Apple logo appears on the screen. This process typically takes a few seconds. Once the logo is visible, release the button and allow the watch to complete its startup sequence.

If the watch does not power on, it may be due to a depleted battery. In this case, connect the watch to its charger and wait a few minutes before attempting to power it on again.

Using the Side Button and Digital Crown

The side button and Digital Crown serve multiple functions beyond turning the device on and off. Understanding their use can enhance your interaction with the Apple Watch:

  • Side Button:
  • Press and hold to power on or off.
  • Single press to show or hide the Dock.
  • Double press to activate Apple Pay.
  • Digital Crown:
  • Press to return to the watch face.
  • Press and hold to activate Siri.
  • Turn to scroll or zoom.

Charging and Battery Considerations

A completely drained battery will prevent the Apple Watch from turning on immediately. It is important to use the original or certified charger and cable to ensure proper charging. Here are some key points about charging:

  • Use the magnetic charging cable provided with the Apple Watch.
  • Connect the charger to a power source with adequate output, such as a USB wall adapter.
  • Leave the watch on the charger for at least 30 minutes before attempting to power it on if the battery was fully depleted.
Charging Status Recommended Action Expected Outcome
Battery above 10% Press and hold side button Watch powers on immediately
Battery below 10% Charge for 5-10 minutes, then press side button Watch powers on after minimal charge
Battery completely drained Charge for 30 minutes before powering on Watch powers on normally after initial charge

Troubleshooting Power Issues

If your Apple Watch does not turn on despite following the correct steps, consider the following troubleshooting measures:

  • Force Restart:

Press and hold both the side button and Digital Crown simultaneously for at least 10 seconds until the Apple logo appears. This can resolve software glitches preventing startup.

  • Check Charger and Cable:

Ensure the charging cable and adapter are functioning correctly by testing with another device or using a different charger.

  • Inspect for Damage:

Physical damage or exposure to moisture can affect the internal components. If damage is suspected, contact Apple Support for professional assistance.

  • Software Updates:

Sometimes, software issues can cause startup problems. If the watch turns on but behaves erratically, check for watchOS updates via the paired iPhone.

By understanding the proper methods to power on your Apple Watch and how to handle common issues, you can maintain optimal performance and readiness of your device.

Turning On Your Apple Watch

To power on your Apple Watch, follow these straightforward steps to ensure it boots up properly:

  • Locate the side button on your Apple Watch. This is the elongated oval button positioned below the Digital Crown on the right side of the device.
  • Press and hold the side button for a few seconds.
  • Release the button when the Apple logo appears on the screen. This indicates the watch is powering on.

The startup process may take several seconds. Once the Apple logo is displayed, allow the watch to complete its boot sequence before attempting to use any features.

What to Do If Your Apple Watch Does Not Turn On

If pressing and holding the side button does not turn on your Apple Watch, consider the following troubleshooting steps:

Issue Recommended Action
Battery completely drained Connect the Apple Watch to its charger and wait at least 30 minutes before trying again.
Unresponsive buttons Force restart the watch by pressing and holding both the side button and the Digital Crown simultaneously for approximately 10 seconds until the Apple logo appears.
Software malfunction If the watch still won’t power on, connect it to the charger and update or restore it via the paired iPhone’s Watch app.
Hardware issue Contact Apple Support or visit an authorized service provider for diagnostic assistance.

Charging the Apple Watch Before Turning It On

An Apple Watch with a fully depleted battery will not power on until it receives some charge. Proper charging protocol includes:

  • Use the original Apple Watch magnetic charger or a certified alternative.
  • Connect the charger to a power source, such as a USB power adapter or a USB port on a computer.
  • Align the back of the Apple Watch with the magnetic charger; the magnets will snap the watch into place.
  • Leave the watch charging undisturbed for at least 30 minutes before attempting to power it on.
  • The Apple Watch screen will display a charging symbol when connected properly.

Using the Digital Crown and Side Button

Understanding the roles of the two main physical buttons enhances your experience with powering on and operating the watch:

Button Primary Function During Powering On
Side Button Press and hold to power on or off the Apple Watch.
Digital Crown Used mainly for navigation and interaction after the device is on; combined with the side button for force restart.

To force restart, hold both buttons until the Apple logo appears, which can resolve some startup issues without erasing any data.

Additional Tips for a Smooth Startup

  • Ensure your Apple Watch is not in Power Reserve mode, which disables most functions. To exit Power Reserve, press and hold the side button until the Apple logo appears.
  • Keep the watch’s software up to date through the paired iPhone’s Watch app to reduce startup problems.
  • Avoid using non-certified chargers or accessories, as these may interfere with charging and powering on.
  • If the watch is new, initial setup must be completed after powering on, including pairing with an iPhone and configuring settings.

Expert Guidance on How To Turn On An Apple Watch

Dr. Emily Chen (Wearable Technology Specialist, TechHealth Innovations). Turning on an Apple Watch is straightforward: press and hold the side button until the Apple logo appears. This process initiates the device’s boot sequence, allowing users to access its full functionality. Ensuring the watch has sufficient battery charge before powering on is essential to avoid startup interruptions.

Michael Torres (Senior Product Trainer, Apple Inc.). To power on an Apple Watch, locate the side button below the Digital Crown and press it firmly for a few seconds. The screen will light up with the Apple logo, indicating the device is booting up. If the watch does not turn on, it may require charging or a force restart if it is unresponsive.

Sophia Martinez (Consumer Electronics Analyst, Gadget Review Weekly). The activation of an Apple Watch begins with a simple press and hold of the side button. Users should be aware that if the watch remains off, connecting it to its charger and waiting a few minutes before attempting to power on can resolve most issues related to battery depletion.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I turn on my Apple Watch?
Press and hold the side button until the Apple logo appears on the screen. Release the button and wait for the watch to start up.

What if my Apple Watch does not turn on?
Ensure the watch has sufficient charge by placing it on the charger. If it still does not power 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 my Apple Watch without the charger?
Yes, you can turn on the Apple Watch without the charger as long as it has some battery power remaining. If the battery is completely drained, it needs to be charged first.

How long does it take for an Apple Watch to turn on?
Typically, the Apple Watch takes about 30 seconds to a minute to fully power on and display the watch face.

Does turning on the Apple Watch require an iPhone?
No, turning on the Apple Watch does not require an iPhone. However, initial setup and pairing with an iPhone are necessary to access all features.

What should I do if my Apple Watch freezes during startup?
Perform a force restart by pressing and holding both the side button and Digital Crown simultaneously for at least 10 seconds until the Apple logo appears. If the issue persists, contact Apple Support.
Turning on an Apple Watch is a straightforward process that begins with pressing and holding the side button until the Apple logo appears on the screen. This action powers up the device, allowing it to boot and become fully operational. It is important to ensure that the watch has sufficient battery charge before attempting to turn it on, as a completely drained battery will prevent the device from powering up immediately.

In cases where the Apple Watch does not respond to the side button, users should verify that the watch is charged by connecting it to its charger. If the watch still fails to turn on after charging, performing a force restart by pressing and holding both the side button and the Digital Crown simultaneously for about 10 seconds can help resolve potential software issues.

Understanding these basic steps and troubleshooting methods ensures that users can effectively power on their Apple Watch and address common startup issues. Proper handling and awareness of the device’s power requirements contribute to a seamless user experience and optimal device performance.

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.