How Do You Turn On an Apple Watch? Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

AvatarByArmando Lewellen Smartwatches

Turning on your Apple Watch for the first time or after it has powered down is an essential step to unlocking its full range of features and benefits. Whether you’re a new user eager to explore the seamless integration with your iPhone or someone returning to the device after a break, understanding how to power it on is the gateway to a smarter, more connected lifestyle. The Apple Watch is designed to be intuitive, but knowing the right steps ensures you get started quickly and smoothly.

This article will guide you through the basics of activating your Apple Watch, setting the stage for a personalized experience tailored to your needs. From the initial power-up to what you can expect once the device is on, we’ll provide a clear overview that prepares you for the more detailed instructions ahead. Whether your watch has been off for a while or you’re simply getting acquainted with its functions, this will help you feel confident in taking that first step.

As you read on, you’ll discover the simple yet crucial actions required to bring your Apple Watch to life, along with tips to troubleshoot common issues related to powering it on. By the end, you’ll be ready to dive into the world of notifications, fitness tracking, and seamless communication right from your wrist.

Powering On Your Apple Watch

To turn on your Apple Watch, press and hold the side button located below the Digital Crown until the Apple logo appears on the screen. This process may take a few seconds, so keep holding the button until you see the logo. Once the watch powers on, it will proceed to the home screen or the watch face, ready for use.

If the Apple Watch does not turn on immediately, it might be because the battery is completely drained. In this case, connect your watch to its charger and allow it to charge for at least 30 minutes before attempting to power it on again.

Charging and Battery Considerations

An Apple Watch that won’t turn on often requires a charge. The device uses a magnetic charging cable that aligns with the back of the watch. When connected, a green lightning bolt icon appears on the screen, indicating that the watch is charging. If a red lightning bolt or no icon appears, ensure the charger is plugged in and properly aligned.

Charging tips to ensure your Apple Watch powers on reliably:

  • Use the original or certified charging cable and adapter.
  • Place the watch on a flat surface to prevent misalignment.
  • Avoid charging in extreme temperatures, which can affect battery performance.
  • Keep the charging port and back of the watch clean from dust or debris.

Using the Side Button and Digital Crown

The Apple Watch has two main physical controls that assist in powering and operating the device:

Control Function Related to Powering On
Side Button Press and hold to turn on the watch; press once to show the Dock or power menu.
Digital Crown Used primarily for navigation, but pressing it once after powering on wakes the screen.

After powering on the watch, a single press of the Digital Crown wakes the display if it has gone dark. The side button also offers options for powering down or activating emergency features when held.

Troubleshooting Power Issues

If your Apple Watch does not turn on despite charging attempts, try the following steps:

  • Force Restart: Press and hold both the side button and the Digital Crown simultaneously for about 10 seconds until the Apple logo appears.
  • Check Charging Accessories: Use a different charger and cable to rule out faulty accessories.
  • Inspect for Damage: Physical or water damage can prevent the watch from powering on; check for visible signs.
  • Contact Support: If the watch still does not power on, professional diagnostics may be necessary.

Powering On After Software Updates or Resets

After a software update or factory reset, the Apple Watch may take longer than usual to power on. During this time, the screen will display an Apple logo or progress bar. It is essential to keep the watch connected to power to avoid interruptions.

Once the update completes, the watch will automatically restart and display the setup interface or watch face, indicating it is ready for use.

Additional Tips for Optimal Power Management

Maintaining optimal battery health ensures the Apple Watch powers on quickly and stays functional throughout the day. Consider the following best practices:

  • Enable Power Reserve mode to extend battery life when the charge is low.
  • Reduce screen brightness and disable unnecessary notifications.
  • Update watchOS regularly to benefit from power management improvements.
  • Avoid keeping the watch fully discharged for extended periods.

By understanding the Apple Watch’s power functions and adhering to these guidelines, users can efficiently manage their device’s power state and troubleshoot common issues related to turning it on.

How to Turn On Your Apple Watch

Turning on your Apple Watch is a straightforward process, but it is essential to understand the proper steps to ensure the device powers up correctly and is ready for use. Follow these instructions carefully to avoid any issues.

To power on your Apple Watch, follow these steps:

  • Locate the Side Button: On the right side of your Apple Watch, you will find a flat, oval-shaped button just below the Digital Crown (the round dial).
  • Press and Hold the Side Button: Press and hold this side button for a few seconds until the Apple logo appears on the screen.
  • Wait for the Watch to Boot: Once the Apple logo appears, release the button and allow the watch to fully boot up. This may take a few moments.

If your Apple Watch does not turn on, it might have a depleted battery. In this case, connect it to its charger and allow it to charge for at least 30 minutes before attempting to power it on again.

Understanding Apple Watch Power States and Indicators

Apple Watch displays several visual cues and power states that help you understand its current status. These indicators can guide you if you encounter any issues while turning the device on.

Power State Description What to Do
Black Screen The screen is off, and the watch is either powered off or in sleep mode. Press and hold the side button to turn it on. If unresponsive, charge the watch.
Apple Logo Displayed The watch is booting up. Wait until the startup process completes. Do not force restart.
Red Lightning Bolt Icon The battery is critically low and needs charging. Place the watch on its charger and allow it to charge before turning on.
Green Battery Icon Battery is sufficiently charged and the watch is ready to use. No action needed; the watch is on and operational.

Additional Tips for Powering On and Resetting

If your Apple Watch fails to power on after following the standard procedure, consider these additional troubleshooting steps:

  • Force Restart: Press and hold both the side button and the Digital Crown simultaneously for at least 10 seconds until the Apple logo appears. This method is useful if the watch is unresponsive.
  • Ensure Proper Charging: Use the original Apple Watch charger and a compatible power adapter. Verify that the charging cable is not damaged.
  • Check for Physical Damage: Inspect the watch for signs of physical damage or water exposure that could impair functionality.
  • Update WatchOS: Once the watch is powered on, keep the operating system updated to prevent software-related power issues.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your Apple Watch powers on correctly and remains operational for daily use.

Expert Guidance on How to Turn On Your Apple Watch

Dr. Emily Chen (Wearable Technology Specialist, TechHealth Innovations). To power on an Apple Watch, press and hold the side button located below the Digital Crown until the Apple logo appears. This process initiates the startup sequence, allowing the device to boot up fully. It is important to ensure the watch has sufficient battery charge before attempting to turn it on to avoid startup issues.

Michael Torres (Senior Product Trainer, Apple Inc.). The correct method to turn on an Apple Watch is by pressing and holding the side button until the screen lights up with the Apple logo. If the watch does not respond, it may require charging or a force restart. Users should avoid pressing the Digital Crown alone, as it does not power the device on.

Sophia Martinez (Consumer Electronics Analyst, Gadget Review Weekly). From a user experience perspective, turning on the Apple Watch is straightforward: a firm press and hold of the side button activates the device. This intuitive design ensures quick access for users, while the visual Apple logo confirms the watch is booting correctly. For optimal performance, keep the watch charged and updated.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do you turn on an 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 finish starting up.

What should I do if my Apple Watch does not turn on?
Ensure the watch has sufficient charge by placing it on 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 the Apple Watch turn on automatically when placed on the charger?
No, the Apple Watch does not turn on automatically when placed on the charger. You must manually press and hold the side button to power it on.

Does the Apple Watch turn off automatically when the battery is drained?
Yes, the Apple Watch powers off automatically when the battery is completely drained to protect the device.

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

Is it possible to turn on an Apple Watch without the side button?
No, the side button is required to power on the Apple Watch. If the button is damaged, contact Apple Support for repair options.
Turning on an Apple Watch is a straightforward process that primarily involves pressing and holding the side button until the Apple logo appears on the screen. This simple action powers up the device, allowing users to access its wide range of features and functionalities. It is important to ensure that the watch has sufficient battery charge before attempting to turn it on, as a completely drained battery may require charging before the device can be powered up.

Understanding how to properly turn on the Apple Watch is essential for new users to begin setting up the device and integrating it with their iPhone. Additionally, knowing this basic operation can assist in troubleshooting situations where the watch might not respond or appear to be off. In cases where the watch does not turn on, users should verify the battery status and consider charging the device or performing a force restart if necessary.

In summary, the key takeaway is that powering on the Apple Watch involves a simple, deliberate press of the side button, provided the device has adequate battery life. This fundamental step is the gateway to utilizing the Apple Watch’s comprehensive health, communication, and productivity features, making it an essential skill for all users to master.

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.