What Should You Do If Your Apple Watch Won’t Turn On?

AvatarByArmando Lewellen Smartwatches

There’s nothing more frustrating than reaching for your Apple Watch only to find it won’t turn on. Whether you rely on it to track your workouts, stay connected, or manage your daily schedule, a non-responsive device can throw a wrench into your routine. If your Apple Watch suddenly refuses to power up, it’s natural to feel concerned or unsure about what steps to take next.

Understanding why your Apple Watch won’t turn on is the first step toward resolving the issue. Various factors—from simple battery problems to software glitches—can cause your device to remain unresponsive. While it might seem like a lost cause, many common issues have straightforward solutions that can get your watch back in action without needing professional repair.

In the following sections, we’ll explore practical tips and troubleshooting techniques designed to help you diagnose and fix the problem. Whether you’re a tech novice or a seasoned user, these insights will guide you through restoring your Apple Watch’s functionality and getting you back on track.

Troubleshooting Charging Issues

If your Apple Watch won’t turn on, one common cause is a depleted battery that has not charged properly. Ensuring your watch is charging correctly is a crucial step.

First, verify that you are using the original Apple Watch charger or a certified accessory. Non-certified chargers can provide inconsistent power or fail to charge the device entirely. Place the back of your Apple Watch on the magnetic charger, ensuring the magnets align properly and the watch’s back is in direct contact with the charger.

Check for any debris or dirt on both the back of the watch and the charger. Even small particles can prevent proper charging. Use a soft, lint-free cloth to clean both surfaces if necessary.

If the watch still doesn’t charge, try these steps:

  • Use a different power adapter or USB port to eliminate the possibility of a faulty power source.
  • Inspect the charging cable for visible damage; frayed or broken cables should be replaced.
  • Leave the watch on the charger for at least 30 minutes, as a completely drained battery can take time to display the charging symbol.

If the charging screen does not appear after 30 minutes, try a force restart (explained in the next section) before attempting to charge again.

Performing a Force Restart

A force restart can resolve minor software glitches that prevent the Apple Watch from powering on. This is different from a standard restart because it forces the device to reboot without following the usual shutdown process.

To perform a force restart:

  • Press and hold both the side button and the Digital Crown simultaneously.
  • Keep holding both buttons for about 10 seconds until the Apple logo appears on the screen.
  • Release the buttons once the logo is visible.

If the Apple logo does not appear after 15 seconds, release the buttons and try charging the watch again. If the watch still does not turn on, proceed to other troubleshooting methods.

Checking for Software Issues Using a Paired iPhone

Sometimes, the Apple Watch may appear unresponsive due to software problems rather than hardware failure. If your watch is paired with an iPhone, you can use the Watch app to check its status.

Open the Watch app on your iPhone and observe the following:

  • If the app shows your watch as connected, the watch is likely powered on but may have a display issue.
  • If the app shows “Disconnected” or does not detect the watch, the device may be off or have a hardware problem.

Try unpairing and then re-pairing the Apple Watch. This process can reset the watch’s settings and resolve software-related issues.

Inspecting for Hardware Damage

Physical damage can prevent your Apple Watch from turning on. Examine the watch carefully for any signs of:

  • Cracks or damage to the screen
  • Water ingress, especially if the watch has been exposed to liquids beyond its rated water resistance
  • Bent or damaged charging port area

If any damage is present, it may require professional repair. Avoid attempting to open the watch yourself, as this can void warranties or cause further damage.

Apple Watch Power and Charging Indicator Table

Indicator Description Recommended Action
Red Lightning Bolt Icon Battery critically low and charging Keep the watch on the charger until the icon changes
Green Lightning Bolt Icon Battery charging normally Allow the watch to charge fully before use
Battery Icon with Exclamation Mark Battery needs service or cannot charge Contact Apple Support for battery replacement
No Charging Icon Watch not detecting charger or battery completely dead Check charger and cable, perform force restart, or visit service center

Troubleshooting Basic Power Issues

If your Apple Watch fails to turn on, the initial step is to verify that the device has sufficient battery charge. A completely drained battery will prevent the watch from powering up.

  • Charge the Watch: Connect your Apple Watch to its charger and ensure the charging cable is properly plugged into a power source. Allow the watch to charge for at least 30 minutes before attempting to power it on again.
  • Inspect the Charger and Cable: Confirm that the charging cable and adapter are functioning correctly by testing them with another compatible device or using a different charger with your watch.
  • Check the Charging Connection: Make sure the back of the Apple Watch and the magnetic charger are clean and free from debris that might interfere with charging.

Once the watch has had adequate time to charge, try to turn it on by pressing and holding the side button until the Apple logo appears. If the logo does not show, proceed to the next steps.

Performing a Force Restart

A force restart can resolve issues where the Apple Watch is unresponsive or stuck on a black screen. This method forcibly reboots the device without erasing any data.

  • Press and hold both the side button and the Digital Crown simultaneously.
  • Keep holding both buttons for at least 10 seconds, or until the Apple logo appears on the screen.
  • Release the buttons once the logo is visible, and allow the watch to boot up normally.

If the Apple Watch still does not turn on after a force restart, the problem may be hardware-related or require deeper software intervention.

Checking for Physical Damage and Water Exposure

Physical damage or exposure to water can prevent the Apple Watch from powering on. Examine the watch carefully for any signs of external damage or moisture intrusion.

Issue Signs to Look For Recommended Action
Screen Damage Cracks, discoloration, unresponsive touch Contact Apple Support or authorized service provider for screen repair or replacement.
Water Damage Condensation under the screen, corrosion on charging contacts Dry the watch thoroughly and avoid attempting to charge it. Seek professional diagnosis and repair.
Physical Impact Visible dents, loose buttons, or broken components Avoid attempting repairs yourself; consult authorized service for evaluation.

Using the Apple Watch Diagnostic and Support Tools

If your Apple Watch still refuses to turn on, you may attempt to connect it to a paired iPhone or a computer to check for signs of life or available diagnostics.

  • Check iPhone Connection: On your paired iPhone, open the Watch app to see if the watch is recognized. An active connection indicates the watch is powered on but may have a display issue.
  • Use Finder or iTunes (macOS or Windows): Connect your Apple Watch to your computer using the appropriate cable and check if the device is recognized. This method can assist with software recovery options.
  • Contact Apple Support: If diagnostic tools do not detect the watch or you cannot restore functionality, schedule a service appointment with Apple or an authorized repair center.

Preventive Measures to Avoid Power Issues

Regular maintenance and mindful usage can minimize the likelihood of your Apple Watch failing to power on in the future. Consider the following best practices:

  • Keep Software Updated: Regularly update your Apple Watch and paired iPhone to the latest watchOS and iOS versions to ensure optimal stability and bug fixes.
  • Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Exposure to very high or low temperatures can damage the battery and internal components.
  • Charge Using Certified Accessories: Use only Apple-certified charging cables and adapters to prevent charging issues or damage.
  • Handle with Care: Protect your watch from drops, impacts, and water damage by using appropriate cases and following manufacturer guidelines.

Expert Advice on Troubleshooting Apple Watch Power Issues

Dr. Emily Chen (Wearable Technology Specialist, TechHealth Innovations). When an Apple Watch refuses to turn on, the first step is to perform a force restart by pressing and holding both the side button and Digital Crown simultaneously for at least 10 seconds. This often resolves minor software glitches that prevent startup. If the device still does not respond, checking the charging cable and power source for functionality is crucial, as a depleted battery or faulty charger is a common cause of power failure.

Jason Patel (Senior Repair Technician, Apple Authorized Service Center). In cases where the Apple Watch won’t power on after a force restart and charging, it is important to inspect for physical damage or liquid exposure, which can impair internal components. If no visible damage exists, connecting the watch to a computer with the latest version of iTunes or Finder may allow for a software restore. However, if the watch remains unresponsive, professional diagnostic testing is recommended to identify hardware failures such as a defective battery or logic board.

Sophia Martinez (Consumer Electronics Analyst, Gadget Review Weekly). Users should also consider software-related issues that might prevent the Apple Watch from turning on. Sometimes, a recent watchOS update can cause boot loops or freezes. In such scenarios, placing the watch in recovery mode and performing a system restore can resolve the problem. Additionally, ensuring the watch’s firmware is up to date and paired correctly with the iPhone can prevent power-on issues related to software conflicts.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why won’t my Apple Watch turn on even after charging?
Ensure the charger and cable are functioning properly and connected securely. Try a different power source or charger. If the watch still won’t power on, perform a force restart by pressing and holding both the side button and Digital Crown for at least 10 seconds.

How do I force restart my Apple Watch?
Press and hold the side button and the Digital Crown simultaneously for at least 10 seconds until the Apple logo appears. This method can resolve unresponsive or frozen device issues.

Can a drained battery cause my Apple Watch not to turn on?
Yes, a completely drained battery can prevent the watch from powering on immediately. Connect the watch to its charger and allow it to charge for at least 30 minutes before attempting to turn it on.

What should I do if my Apple Watch screen remains black but the device is on?
Check for display issues by adjusting brightness or restarting the watch. If the screen stays black, contact Apple Support as it may indicate a hardware malfunction requiring professional repair.

Is it possible that software issues prevent my Apple Watch from turning on?
Yes, software glitches can cause startup problems. A force restart may resolve this. If not, try unpairing and re-pairing the watch with your iPhone or restore the watch using a backup via the Watch app.

When should I seek professional repair for my Apple Watch?
If the watch does not respond to force restarts, charging, or software troubleshooting, or if there is physical damage, consult Apple Support or an authorized service provider for diagnosis and repair.
If your Apple Watch won’t turn on, it is essential to systematically troubleshoot the issue by starting with basic checks such as ensuring the device has sufficient charge and attempting a force restart. Confirming that the charging cable and adapter are functioning correctly can often resolve power-related problems. If the watch still does not respond, connecting it to a known working charger and allowing it to charge for at least 30 minutes is advisable before trying to power it on again.

In cases where the Apple Watch remains unresponsive after these initial steps, more advanced troubleshooting may be necessary. This includes inspecting for any physical damage, checking for software issues by attempting a reset or restore via a paired iPhone, or seeking professional assistance. It is important to avoid attempting unauthorized repairs, as this can void warranties and potentially cause further damage.

Ultimately, understanding the common causes behind an Apple Watch failing to turn on—such as battery depletion, software crashes, or hardware faults—can help users take appropriate actions promptly. Maintaining regular updates and proper care of the device can minimize the risk of encountering such problems. When in doubt, consulting Apple Support or authorized service providers ensures the device is handled safely and 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.