How to Reset Your Apple Watch: A Step-by-Step Guide

Why Might You Need to Reset Your Apple Watch?

Apple Watches are powerful devices, but sometimes they encounter issues that require a reset. You might need to reset your Apple Watch if you’ve forgotten your passcode, if the watch is frozen or unresponsive, or if you’re preparing to sell or give away your device.

Method 1: Resetting Your Apple Watch Using the Device Itself

If you have direct access to your Apple Watch, follow these steps:

Place your Apple Watch on its charger and keep it connected throughout the process.
Press and hold the side button until you see the Power Off slider.
Instead of sliding to power off, press firmly on the display where it says “Power Off”.
Tap “Erase all content and settings”.
Confirm your choice by tapping “Reset” twice.

This method is particularly useful if you’ve forgotten your passcode and can’t access your watch’s settings through normal means.

Method 2: Resetting Your Apple Watch Using Your Paired iPhone

If your Apple Watch is still paired with your iPhone, you can reset it using the Watch app:

Keep your Apple Watch and iPhone close together.
Open the Apple Watch app on your iPhone.
Tap the “My Watch” tab, then go to “General” > “Reset”.
Select “Erase Apple Watch Content and Settings”.
For cellular models, choose whether to keep or remove your plan.
Enter your Apple ID password if prompted.

This method is convenient if you can’t access your watch directly or prefer using your iPhone’s larger screen.

What to Do After Resetting Your Apple Watch

After the reset process is complete, you’ll need to set up your Apple Watch again. During setup, you’ll have the option to restore from a backup, which can help you quickly get back to where you left off. Remember that resetting your watch will erase all content and settings, but it won’t remove Activation Lock. To remove Activation Lock, you’ll need to unpair the watch first.