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If you've forgotten your Apple Watch passcode, you have no choice but to reset it. Without the passcode, you'll no longer have access to the watch. This article will show you exactly how to reset your Apple Watch—either directly on the watch or via your iPhone. No steps are left unfinished, and you'll also learn about backups, Activation Lock, and your cellular plan.
It happens quickly: You change your Apple Watch's passcode and don't enter it for a few days – and it's gone. Or you've inherited someone else's watch, but the passcode is unknown. In either case, you need a solution that works. Apple doesn't allow access without a passcode, so only a complete reset of the Apple Watch will help. The good news: You can set it up again afterwards and even restore it from a backup.
Reset Apple Watch without iPhone
If you don't have your iPhone with you or just want to use the watch itself, you can reset it directly on the Apple Watch. You'll need the appropriate charger for this, as the reset only works while charging.
- Place your Apple Watch on the charger.
- Press and hold the side button until the power button appears on the screen.
- Now hold down the Digital Crown until the option “Erase All Content & Settings” appears.
- Tap “Reset” and confirm again.
- Wait until the process is complete. Then you can set up your Apple Watch again.
After the reset, the watch will be reset to factory settings. All data, media, and settings will be deleted. What remains is the so-called Activation Lock – this prevents anyone else from using your Apple Watch without your Apple ID. If you want to pass the watch on to someone else, you must unpair it first .
Reset Apple Watch via iPhone
If your iPhone is available and paired with your Apple Watch, resetting is even easier. The important thing is that both devices are close to each other.
- Open the Apple Watch app on your iPhone.
- Tap the “My Watch” tab.
- Go to “General” and then “Reset.”
- Tap “Erase Apple Watch Content & Settings.”
- Confirm your selection at the bottom of the screen.
- Enter your Apple account password if necessary.
This method also performs a full reset, which erases all data. Before the reset, the iPhone automatically creates a backup of the Apple Watch, which you can restore later.
What you need to consider when choosing a mobile phone plan
If you're using an Apple Watch with GPS + Cellular, you'll need to decide what to do with your cellular plan. You'll make this decision during the reset process.
- If you want to pair your Apple Watch with your iPhone again, keep your cellular plan.
- If you no longer want to use Apple Watch, you can remove the plan. In some cases, you may need to contact your carrier to cancel the contract.
Restart after reset
After the reset, you can set up your Apple Watch as usual. You have the choice: you can set it up from scratch or restore a backup. Once you unpair your Apple Watch, the Activation Lock is also removed.
Reset Apple Watch: You have two options
If you've forgotten your Apple Watch's passcode, the only solution is a reset. There are two ways to do this: directly via the watch or via your iPhone. Both methods lead to the same result – your Apple Watch will be erased and can be set up again. It's important to respect the Activation Lock and, for cellular models, remember your plan. After the reset, nothing will stop you from using it. The best products for you: Our Amazon Storefront offers a wide selection of accessories, including those for HomeKit. (Image: Shutterstock / love4aya)
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