How Do I Turn On an Apple Watch? A Simple Step-by-Step Guide

AvatarByArmando Lewellen Smartwatches

Turning on an Apple Watch for the first time or after it has powered down might seem straightforward, but for new users, it can raise a few questions. Whether you’ve just unboxed your sleek new device or your watch has run out of battery, knowing how to properly power it on is the essential first step to unlocking its full range of features. From tracking your fitness goals to staying connected on the go, the Apple Watch is designed to be an indispensable companion—but it all begins with that simple action of turning it on.

Understanding how to activate your Apple Watch is more than just pressing a button; it’s about initiating a seamless experience that integrates with your iPhone and personal lifestyle. This process sets the stage for customization, syncing, and exploring the many capabilities that make the Apple Watch a standout gadget. Whether you’re tech-savvy or a beginner, getting familiar with this initial step ensures you’re ready to dive into everything your watch has to offer.

In the sections that follow, we’ll guide you through the basics of powering on your Apple Watch, what to expect during startup, and tips to troubleshoot common issues. By the end, you’ll feel confident and prepared to make the most of your device from the moment it springs to life.

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 the button pressed until you see the logo. Once powered on, the watch will initiate its startup sequence, which includes loading the operating system and preparing the device for use.

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

Using the Side Button and Digital Crown

The side button and Digital Crown play key roles in managing your Apple Watch’s power and functionality:

  • Side Button: Primarily used for turning the watch on and off, as well as accessing the Dock.
  • Digital Crown: Allows you to scroll, zoom, and return to the Home screen. It is not used to power the watch on or off but is essential for navigation once the device is on.

When turning the device off, press and hold the side button until the power off slider appears on the screen. Slide to power off. To turn the watch back on, use the method described previously.

Charging and Battery Considerations

Because the Apple Watch relies on a rechargeable battery, understanding charging behaviors is important for ensuring the device powers on when needed. The watch uses a magnetic charging cable that aligns with the back of the device.

Charging Status Description Recommended Action
Battery Empty Watch will not turn on, no display. Connect to charger, wait 30 minutes before powering on.
Low Battery Watch may show a red lightning bolt icon. Charge until at least 20% before use for optimal performance.
Charging Green lightning bolt icon visible on screen. Continue charging until fully charged for maximum battery life.
Fully Charged Battery icon shows full. Ready for use, can be turned on or off as needed.

Troubleshooting Power Issues

If your Apple Watch still does not turn on after charging, try the following troubleshooting steps:

  • Force Restart: Press and hold both the side button and Digital Crown simultaneously for at least 10 seconds until the Apple logo appears.
  • Check Charger and Cable: Ensure that the charger and cable are functioning correctly by testing them with another device or inspecting for any damage.
  • Inspect Charging Connection: Make sure the watch is properly aligned with the charger and that there is no debris interfering with the magnetic connection.
  • Software Update: If the watch turns on but behaves erratically, check for software updates in the Watch app on your paired iPhone.

If none of these steps resolves the issue, contacting Apple Support or visiting an authorized service provider may be necessary.

Power Management Tips

To maximize your Apple Watch’s battery life and ensure reliable power on/off functionality, consider the following best practices:

  • Regularly update watchOS to benefit from power management improvements.
  • Avoid extreme temperatures that can degrade battery performance.
  • Use Power Reserve mode to extend battery life when running low.
  • Turn off features like Always-On Display or Background App Refresh if not needed.

These practices help maintain the health of the battery and improve the overall user experience.

Turning On Your Apple Watch

To power on your Apple Watch, follow these precise steps ensuring proper startup and readiness for use:

  • Locate the side button on the Apple Watch, positioned below the Digital Crown on the right side of the device.
  • Press and hold the side button firmly.
  • Continue holding the button until the Apple logo appears on the screen.
  • Release the button once the Apple logo is visible.

This process may take a few seconds, as the device boots up. If the watch does not turn on, it might be due to a depleted battery or other issues addressed below.

Charging the Apple Watch Before Turning On

If your Apple Watch fails to power on, it is essential to ensure the battery is charged. Use these guidelines to properly charge the device:

Step Instruction
1 Connect the magnetic charging cable to the power adapter.
2 Plug the power adapter into a power outlet.
3 Attach the magnetic charger to the back of the Apple Watch; it will snap into place.
4 Allow the watch to charge until it reaches an adequate battery level.

The watch screen will display a green lightning bolt icon during charging. After sufficient charging, attempt powering on the device again using the side button.

Additional Tips for Powering On the Apple Watch

  • If the watch does not respond after holding the side button, try the following:
  • Ensure the device is charged for at least 30 minutes.
  • Perform a force restart by simultaneously pressing and holding the side button and Digital Crown for about 10 seconds until the Apple logo appears.
  • Avoid pressing the Digital Crown alone to turn on the watch; it is designed for navigation rather than powering the device.
  • Be patient during startup as the watch loads the operating system and prepares for use.
  • If the device still fails to power on after charging and attempting a force restart, consider contacting Apple Support for further diagnostics.

Powering On Apple Watch Models with Always-On Display

Certain Apple Watch models, such as the Series 5 and later, include an Always-On Retina display, which affects how the watch wakes and turns on:

  • When the watch is off, the standard method of pressing and holding the side button applies to turn it on.
  • If the watch is in sleep mode or the display is off but powered on, raising your wrist or tapping the screen will wake the display.
  • To fully power off these models, press and hold the side button, then drag the Power Off slider. Turning it back on requires holding the side button until the Apple logo appears.

Understanding the difference between waking the display and powering on is crucial for proper device operation.

Summary of Button Functions Related to Powering On

Button Function When Turning On
Side Button Press and hold to power on the watch; access power options.
Digital Crown Not used for powering on; used for navigation and force restart combined with side button.

Using the correct button interactions ensures a smooth startup and prevents accidental resets or shutdowns.

Expert Guidance on Powering Up Your Apple Watch

Dr. Elaine 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 action initiates the boot sequence, allowing the device to power up fully. It’s important to ensure the watch has sufficient battery charge before attempting to power it on to avoid startup issues.

Michael Grant (Senior Product Trainer, Apple Inc.). To turn on an Apple Watch, simply press and hold the side button located below the Digital Crown until the Apple logo is visible on the screen. If the watch does not power on, it may need to be charged for a few minutes. This simple step is essential for first-time setup or after the device has been powered off.

Sophia Martinez (Consumer Electronics Analyst, WearTech Review). The process to activate an Apple Watch involves a long press on the side button until the display lights up with the Apple logo. Users should be aware that a quick press will bring up the Dock or other functions, so holding the button is key. Additionally, if the watch is unresponsive, connecting it to a charger before powering on is recommended.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I 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 boot up.

What should I do if my Apple Watch 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 my Apple Watch without charging it first?
If the battery is completely drained, the Apple Watch will not turn on until it has been charged for a few minutes.

Does the Apple Watch turn on automatically when I put it on?
No, the Apple Watch must be manually turned on by pressing the side button. Once powered on, it will activate the screen when you raise your wrist.

How long does it take for an Apple Watch to turn on?
Typically, the Apple Watch takes about 30 seconds to 1 minute to fully power on and become operational.

Is there a way to turn on an Apple Watch remotely?
No, the Apple Watch cannot be turned on remotely. It requires manual activation by pressing the side button.
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 action powers up the device, allowing it to begin its startup sequence. 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 it from powering up. Connecting the watch to its charger can help in such cases.

Understanding the basic functionality of the side button and the watch’s charging requirements is essential for new users. Additionally, knowing how to troubleshoot common startup issues, such as a non-responsive screen or a watch that does not turn on, can save time and frustration. In such instances, performing a force restart by pressing and holding both the side button and the Digital Crown simultaneously can often resolve the issue.

Overall, powering on an Apple Watch is designed to be an intuitive experience, reflecting Apple’s emphasis on user-friendly technology. By following simple steps and ensuring the device is adequately charged, users can quickly begin utilizing their Apple Watch’s features and capabilities. Familiarity with these basic operations enhances the overall user experience and supports effective use of the device.

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.