How to pair an Apple Watch to your iPhone

It only takes a few minutes to get up and running.
By Mashable Team  on 
Woman using smart watch and smart phone, Apple watch
Credit: Raditya via Getty

Pairing your Apple Watch with your iPhone is a straightforward process that unlocks features designed to enhance your day-to-day activities.

Whether you're setting up a brand-new Apple Watch or connecting a previously used one, the steps below will guide you through the process, ensuring a seamless integration between your devices.

How to pair Apple Watch with iPhone

Step 1: Open the Apple Watch App on Your iPhone

First, before you start pairing, make sure your phone has the latest iOS update and that the Health app is enabled if you use iCloud to back up your device.

If you're setting up your Watch for the first time, tap on "Start Pairing." The app will then open the camera, prompting you to align your Apple Watch in the viewfinder to initiate the pairing process.

Step 2: Set Up as New or Restore from Backup

After your Watch is recognized, you can set it up as a new device or restore it from a backup. Choose the option that best fits your needs. If you're setting up a brand-new Watch, selecting "Set Up as New Apple Watch" is the way to go.

Those migrating from an older Watch can choose to restore from a backup to transfer settings and content seamlessly.

Step 3: Log in to Your Apple ID and Set Up Features

Follow the on-screen instructions to log in with your Apple ID. This step is crucial for enabling features like iCloud, iMessage, and Find My. You'll also have the opportunity to set up Siri, Apple Pay, and other services during this phase.

Step 4: Customize and Sync

Finally, you can customize settings like passcodes, screen orientation, and which apps to install. Once you've adjusted these settings to your liking, your iPhone will begin syncing with your Watch. This process may take a few minutes, but once completed, your Apple Watch will be ready to use, fully paired with your iPhone.


Recommended For You


Grab a refurbished original Apple Watch Ultra for $72 off
Apple Watch Ultra on pink, orange, and purple abstract background

Get the Apple Watch Series 9 sans blood oxygen sensor for its lowest price yet
Apple Watch Series 9 on green and yellow abstract background

Apple Watch: The next one could track your sweat
Hand touching an Apple Watch displaying home screen

Trending on Mashable
NYT Connections today: See hints and answers for March 8
A phone displaying the New York Times game 'Connections.'

Wordle today: Here's the answer and hints for March 9
a phone displaying Wordle

NYT Connections today: See hints and answers for March 9
A phone displaying the New York Times game 'Connections.'

Wordle today: Here's the answer and hints for March 8
a phone displaying Wordle

21 of the best ChatGPT courses you can take online for free
ChatGPT on phone
The biggest stories of the day delivered to your inbox.
This newsletter may contain advertising, deals, or affiliate links. Subscribing to a newsletter indicates your consent to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You may unsubscribe from the newsletters at any time.
Thanks for signing up. See you at your inbox!