Why Your Apple Watch Won't Turn On
If your Apple Watch is not turning on, it can be frustrating, especially if you rely on it for daily tasks. Here are some steps to help you troubleshoot and fix the issue.
1. Force Restart Your Apple Watch
A force restart is often the simplest and most effective way to resolve the issue. This method can help if your Apple Watch is experiencing software glitches or if it has accidentally entered a mode that causes the screen to go dark.
- Press and hold the Digital Crown and the Side button simultaneously for 10-15 seconds.
- Release the buttons when you see the Apple logo appear.
- Wait for your Apple Watch to start up. This may take up to 30 seconds to a minute.
2. Charge Your Apple Watch
A dead battery is one of the most common reasons why an Apple Watch won't turn on. Ensure your watch is properly charged.
- Check the charging cable: Make sure you are using the correct Apple Watch Magnetic Charging Cable or the Apple Watch Magnetic Fast Charger to USB-C Cable.
- Verify the charger connection: Ensure the cable is securely connected to both the watch and the power source.
- Remove any obstructions: Check for any dirt or dust on the magnetic charger or the back of the Apple Watch that might prevent charging.
3. Disable Power Reserve Mode
Power Reserve mode can cause your Apple Watch to appear as if it is not turning on, as it limits all functions except displaying the time.
- Press and hold the Side button until the Apple logo appears. This will restart your watch and exit Power Reserve mode.
4. Disable VoiceOver and Screen Curtain
If VoiceOver is enabled, the Screen Curtain feature might be causing the screen to remain black.
- Open the Apple Watch app on your iPhone.
- Tap the My Watch tab.
- Navigate to Accessibility > VoiceOver and turn off Screen Curtain.
5. Check for Hardware Issues
If none of the above steps work, there might be a hardware issue.
- Inspect for physical damage: Check if your Apple Watch has been dropped or exposed to water, which could cause internal damage.
- Visit an Apple Store: If you suspect hardware issues, it is best to get your Apple Watch diagnosed by Apple support. Avoid DIY repairs as they can cause further damage.
Additional Troubleshooting Steps
Draining the Battery
In some cases, the battery might be in a state where it needs to be completely drained before it can be charged again.
- Leave the watch in a cool, dry place until the battery is completely drained. This can take several days.
- Once the battery is dead, place the watch on the charger. It should start charging normally.
Testing Other Chargers
If you suspect the issue is with the charger, try using a different stand, cord, or adapter to rule out any problems with the current charger.
By following these steps, you should be able to resolve most issues related to your Apple Watch not turning on. If the problem persists, it may be best to contact Apple support for further assistance.