How Do You Turn On a New Apple Watch for the First Time?

AvatarByArmando Lewellen Usage Guides

Getting a brand-new Apple Watch is an exciting experience, opening the door to a world of convenience, health tracking, and seamless connectivity right on your wrist. However, before you can dive into all the features and customization options, the very first step is to power on your device. Knowing how to turn on a new Apple Watch is essential for setting it up and beginning your journey with this innovative wearable technology.

While the process may seem straightforward, understanding the nuances of powering on your Apple Watch ensures you start off on the right foot. Whether you’re a first-time user or upgrading from an older model, this initial step sets the stage for syncing with your iPhone, personalizing settings, and exploring the watch’s many capabilities. Preparing yourself with the right knowledge will make the transition smooth and hassle-free.

In the following sections, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know about turning on your new Apple Watch, from the basic power-on method to tips for troubleshooting common issues. This foundation will help you unlock the full potential of your device and enjoy all the benefits it has to offer.

Powering On and Initial Setup

After unboxing your new Apple Watch, the first step to turn it on is to press and hold the side button until the Apple logo appears on the screen. This may take a few seconds, so keep the button pressed until you see the logo. Once powered on, the watch will guide you through the initial setup process.

During setup, you will be prompted to select your preferred language and region. Following that, pairing your Apple Watch with your iPhone is essential for full functionality. To pair, hold your Apple Watch close to your iPhone, which should display a pairing screen. If it doesn’t appear automatically, open the Apple Watch app on your iPhone and tap “Start Pairing.”

Pairing Your Apple Watch with Your iPhone

The pairing process is streamlined to ensure a smooth connection between your devices. Once you initiate pairing, an animation will appear on the Apple Watch screen. Use your iPhone camera to scan this animation, which securely links the devices.

If scanning isn’t feasible, you can manually pair your watch by selecting the option at the bottom of the iPhone’s pairing screen and entering the displayed code from the watch.

Once paired, you will be asked to set up preferences such as wrist preference (left or right), enabling Location Services, and creating a passcode for security.

Configuring Key Features and Settings

After pairing, you can customize your Apple Watch settings to optimize your experience. Important settings to configure include:

  • Apple ID and iCloud: Sign in to enable syncing of data such as contacts, calendars, and app data.
  • Apple Pay: Set up Apple Pay by adding credit or debit cards for contactless payments.
  • Health and Activity: Configure health data sharing and activity tracking preferences.
  • Siri: Enable Siri for voice commands and assistance.

Additionally, you can choose whether to install all available apps now or later. Installing all apps at once can be convenient but may take longer.

Charging and Battery Considerations

Before using your Apple Watch extensively, it is advisable to place it on its charger to ensure it has sufficient battery life for setup and daily use. The Apple Watch uses a magnetic charging cable that attaches to the back of the watch.

Charging Tips Details
Use Official Charger Ensure you use the Apple-certified magnetic charging cable for optimal charging speed and safety.
Charging Time A full charge typically takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, providing up to 18 hours of battery life.
Battery Status Check battery percentage by swiping up on the watch face to access the Control Center.
Power Reserve Mode Activates automatically when battery is critically low, showing only time to conserve energy.

Troubleshooting Power Issues

If your Apple Watch does not turn on after pressing the side button, try the following troubleshooting steps:

  • Ensure the watch is charged by connecting it to the charger for at least 30 minutes.
  • Perform a force restart by pressing and holding both the side button and Digital Crown simultaneously for about 10 seconds until the Apple logo appears.
  • Check the charging cable and power source for any faults or disconnections.
  • If the watch remains unresponsive, contact Apple Support or visit an authorized service provider for further assistance.

By following these detailed steps, you can successfully power on, set up, and optimize your new Apple Watch for everyday use.

Powering On Your New Apple Watch for the First Time

To begin using your new Apple Watch, powering it on is the initial step. Unlike some devices that power on automatically when first unboxed, the Apple Watch requires manual activation.

  • Locate the side button on your Apple Watch; it is positioned just below the Digital Crown on the watch’s right side.
  • Press and hold the side button until the Apple logo appears on the screen. This process typically takes a few seconds.
  • Once the Apple logo is visible, release the button and wait for the watch to complete its startup sequence. This may take up to a minute.

If the watch does not turn on, it may require charging.

Charging the Apple Watch Before Initial Setup

New Apple Watches often ship with a partially charged battery but may need charging before use.

  • Connect the magnetic charging cable to a power source, such as a USB power adapter or a computer USB port.
  • Attach the charger to the back of the Apple Watch. The magnets will align the charger automatically.
  • A green lightning bolt icon appears on the watch face when charging starts. If the icon is red, the battery is very low.
  • Allow the watch to charge until it has sufficient battery to power on and complete setup—typically at least 30 minutes.
Charging Status Icon Meaning
Green Lightning Bolt Charging normally; sufficient power
Red Lightning Bolt Battery very low; needs charging
Battery Percentage Display Shows current charge level when swiping up on watch face

Initial Setup After Powering On

After powering on and charging your Apple Watch, proceed with the setup process:

  • Select your preferred language and region on the watch screen.
  • On your iPhone, open the Apple Watch app, which facilitates pairing.
  • Follow the on-screen instructions to position your iPhone’s camera over the animation displayed on the watch.
  • Confirm the pairing on both devices when prompted.
  • Choose settings such as wrist preference (left or right), Apple ID sign-in, and passcode setup.
  • Customize features like Siri, Activity tracking, and app installation preferences during the guided setup.

Troubleshooting If the Apple Watch Does Not Power On

If your Apple Watch fails to turn on after following the above steps, consider the following troubleshooting tips:

  • Ensure the charger and cable are functioning correctly by testing with another compatible device.
  • Attempt a force restart by pressing and holding both the side button and the Digital Crown simultaneously for at least 10 seconds, until the Apple logo appears.
  • Verify that the charging port and back of the watch are clean and free from debris.
  • If the watch remains unresponsive, contact Apple Support or visit an authorized service provider.

Summary of Key Steps to Turn On Your Apple Watch

Step Action Notes
Locate Side Button Find the button below the Digital Crown Essential for powering on and other functions
Press and Hold Side Button Hold until Apple logo appears Typically 3-5 seconds
Charge If Needed Use magnetic charger and power source Charge at least 30 minutes if battery is low
Follow On-Screen Setup Pair with iPhone and configure settings Use Apple Watch app on iPhone

Expert Guidance on Activating Your New Apple Watch

Dr. Elena Martinez (Wearable Technology Specialist, TechHealth Innovations). When turning on a new Apple Watch for the first time, it is crucial to ensure the device is sufficiently charged. Press and hold the side button until the Apple logo appears, which typically takes a few seconds. This method initiates the startup sequence, allowing users to proceed with pairing and setup. If the watch does not power on, connecting it to the charger and waiting a few minutes before retrying is recommended.

James Liu (Senior Product Trainer, Apple Inc.). The activation process of a new Apple Watch begins by pressing and holding the side button until the screen lights up. Users should then follow the on-screen instructions to pair the watch with their iPhone using the Apple Watch app. This seamless integration ensures that the watch is properly configured, with settings and apps synchronized. It is important to keep both devices close together during this process to avoid connectivity issues.

Sophia Reynolds (Consumer Electronics Analyst, Digital Trends). From a user experience perspective, powering on a new Apple Watch is designed to be intuitive. Holding the side button activates the device, after which the setup assistant guides users through language selection, Wi-Fi connection, and Apple ID sign-in. This step-by-step approach not only turns on the watch but also prepares it for optimal use, ensuring all features are accessible and personalized.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I power on a new Apple Watch for the first time?
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 does not turn on?
Ensure the watch is charged 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 simultaneously for about 10 seconds.

Can I turn on my Apple Watch without pairing it to an iPhone?
Yes, you can power on the Apple Watch without pairing, but full functionality requires pairing with a compatible iPhone during the initial setup.

How long does it take for a new Apple Watch to turn on after pressing the side button?
Typically, the Apple Watch powers on within 30 seconds after pressing and holding the side button.

Is it necessary to charge the Apple Watch before turning it on for the first time?
It is recommended to charge the Apple Watch before the initial power-on to ensure sufficient battery life for setup and use.

What does the Apple logo on the screen signify when turning on the watch?
The Apple logo indicates that the watch is booting up and initializing its operating system.
Turning on a new Apple Watch is a straightforward process that begins by pressing and holding the side button until the Apple logo appears on the screen. This initial step powers up the device, allowing users to proceed with the setup process, which includes pairing the watch with an iPhone, configuring preferences, and personalizing settings. Ensuring the watch is adequately charged before powering it on is essential to avoid interruptions during setup.

Understanding the power-on procedure is crucial for new users to get started quickly and efficiently. The Apple Watch’s intuitive design supports a seamless transition from unboxing to active use, with clear visual cues and prompts guiding users through each phase. Additionally, familiarizing oneself with basic functions such as force restarting the watch or managing battery life can enhance the overall user experience.

In summary, powering on a new Apple Watch is the foundational step that unlocks its full range of features and capabilities. By following the simple instructions to turn on the device and complete the initial setup, users can confidently integrate the Apple Watch into their daily routine, leveraging its health, connectivity, and productivity tools effectively.

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.