How to unpair and reset an Apple Watch

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting.

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

To unpair and reset an Apple Watch, you can either use the Watch app on your paired iPhone or perform the reset directly on the watch itself. This process will erase all data on the Apple Watch and remove it from your iPhone.

Easy⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before starting the unpairing and resetting process, ensure you have the following:
  • •An iPhone that is paired with the Apple Watch.
  • •The latest version of iOS installed on your iPhone.
  • •The Apple Watch must be charged to at least 50%.
  • •Backup your Apple Watch data using iCloud or iTunes if you want to retain any information.

Method 1: Unpairing via the iPhone Watch App

This method is the most straightforward way to unpair your Apple Watch and is recommended for users who have their paired iPhone.
  • •Step 1: Open the 'Watch' app on your iPhone.
  • •Step 2: Tap on 'My Watch' at the bottom of the screen.
  • •Step 3: Select the watch you want to unpair from the list.
  • •Step 4: Tap the 'i' icon next to the watch name.
  • •Step 5: Tap 'Unpair Apple Watch'.
  • •Step 6: Confirm the action by tapping 'Unpair' again. You may need to enter your Apple ID password to disable Activation Lock.
  • •Step 7: Wait for the unpairing process to complete, which may take a few minutes. You will see a message indicating that the watch has been unpaired.

For iOS 16 and later

If you are using iOS 16 or later, the steps remain the same, but the interface may have slight visual differences.
  • •Ensure your iPhone is connected to Wi-Fi during the unpairing process.
  • •Look for updated icons or layout changes in the Watch app.

For iOS 15 and earlier

The steps are similar, but the layout may differ slightly.
  • •The 'My Watch' tab may have a different design, but the functionality remains unchanged.

Method 2: Resetting Directly on the Apple Watch

Use this method if you don't have access to your paired iPhone or prefer to reset the watch directly.
  • •Step 1: On your Apple Watch, open the 'Settings' app.
  • •Step 2: Tap 'General'.
  • •Step 3: Scroll down and select 'Reset'.
  • •Step 4: Tap 'Erase All Content and Settings'.
  • •Step 5: If prompted, enter your passcode.
  • •Step 6: Confirm the action by tapping 'Erase All'.
  • •Step 7: Wait for the watch to reset, which may take a few minutes. You will see the Apple logo during the reset process.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter problems during the unpairing or resetting process, consider the following solutions:
  • •Error: 'Unable to Unpair' - Solution: Ensure your iPhone is connected to Wi-Fi and Bluetooth is enabled.
  • •Issue: Apple Watch is stuck on the Apple logo - Fix: Force restart the watch by pressing and holding the side button and Digital Crown until the Apple logo appears.
  • •Problem: Activation Lock is preventing unpairing - Workaround: Ensure you enter the correct Apple ID and password associated with the watch.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

For power users, here are some additional tips and shortcuts:
  • •Keyboard shortcut: N/A - This process does not involve keyboard shortcuts.
  • •Command line: N/A - This process does not involve command line usage.
  • •Hidden feature: Use the 'Find My' app to locate your Apple Watch if it is lost before unpairing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

The best approach is to always unpair the Apple Watch using the iPhone to ensure a smooth process and data retention.