how to pair an Apple watch with a new phone

How to Connect Apple Watch to New Phone With or Without Old iPhone

Last Updated: 16 January 2025

Syncing your Apple Watch to a new iPhone has become more time-saving and efficient, thanks to Apple’s continuous measures to enhance user experience. 

Whether upgrading your iPhone to a newer model or switching devices altogether, following this step-by-step guide will ensure a hassle-free transition. Let’s dive in!

Checklist

Before you start the pairing process, it’s important to have the following items and conditions in place to avoid interruptions:

Apple ID & Password: Ensure you have your Apple ID and password ready. These will be required to bypass the activation lock during the setup process.

Wi-Fi Connection: Confirm that both your old and new iPhones are connected to stable Wi-Fi networks. A strong connection is essential for downloading backups and updates.

Battery Levels: Charge your Apple Watch and iPhone to at least 50% to prevent them from powering down.

Apple Watch Passcode: Remember your Apple Watch passcode, as it will be required during the setup.

Backup Availability: Check that your old iPhone has a recent backup stored on iCloud or your computer. This backup ensures that all your apps, settings, and data are restored.

Software Updates: Verify that your iPhone and Apple Watch are running the latest iOS and watchOS versions to avoid compatibility issues.

Sufficient Time: Allocate enough time to complete the process, as backups, updates, and restores can take 30 minutes to several hours, depending on data size and internet speed.

Steps to Connect Your Apple Watch With a New iPhone (When Old iPhone Is Available)

Update Devices

  • Update your old iPhone and Apple Watch to the latest available versions of iOS and watchOS.

  • Ensure both devices are adequately charged and connected to Wi-Fi during the update process.

Backup Old iPhone

  • Create a backup of your old iPhone using iCloud or a computer. If using a computer, ensure the backup is encrypted to include sensitive data such as Health and Activity information.

  • Confirm that the backup is completed successfully before proceeding.

Set Up New iPhone

  • Begin setting up your new iPhone. During the setup process, select the option to restore from your most recent backup.

  • Sign in with your Apple ID to restore apps, settings, and data.

Unpair from Old iPhone (If Necessary)

  • If your Apple Watch is still paired with the old iPhone, open the Apple Watch app on the old device and unpair the watch. This will create a fresh backup of your Apple Watch’s data.

Open the Apple Watch App on New iPhone

  • Keep your Apple Watch on your wrist and near the new iPhone.

  • Launch the Apple Watch app on your new iPhone and follow the on-screen instructions to pair the devices.

Restore from Backup

  • When prompted, restore your Apple Watch from the most recent backup.

  • Log in to apps and services to complete the setup process. This may include re-entering passwords and adjusting preferences.

Test Functionality

  • Ensure that your Apple Watch is functioning as expected. Check that all apps, notifications, and features are working properly.

Steps to Pair an Apple Watch With a New iPhone (When Old iPhone Is Unavailable)

Sign in to iCloud

  • Ensure that your new iPhone is signed into iCloud using the same Apple ID associated with your Apple Watch.

Erase Apple Watch

  • On your Apple Watch, navigate Settings > General > Reset > Erase All Content and Settings. Confirm the action. Note that this will delete all data unless a backup is available.

Start Pairing

  • Open the Apple Watch app on your new iPhone and tap Start Pairing.

  • Follow the on-screen prompts to connect your devices.

Restore Data

After pairing, restore your Apple Watch from an iCloud backup if one is available. If no backup exists, set up the watch as new and reconfigure settings manually.

Install Updates

Allow your Apple Watch to download and install any required updates to ensure optimal compatibility and performance.

Reconnect Apps

Sign in to any third-party apps or services previously linked to your Apple Watch. Reconfigure notifications and preferences as needed.

Troubleshooting Pairing Issues

Restart Devices

Restart your iPhone and Apple Watch to resolve minor connectivity issues that may hinder pairing.

Force Reset Apple Watch

Press and hold the Digital Crown and the side button simultaneously until the Apple logo appears. This will reset the watch without erasing its data.

Reset Pairing Process

If pairing fails, reset the Apple Watch and start the pairing process from the beginning.

Check Network and Bluetooth Settings

Ensure that Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are enabled and functioning correctly on your iPhone.

Check for Updates

Confirm that both devices are running the latest software versions to prevent compatibility issues.

More Considerations

Activity Sharing Data: Note that iCloud does not back up Activity Sharing data. This information cannot be transferred to the new device.

Apple Support Assistance: If issues persist, visit Apple’s support website or contact customer service for professional help.

Backup Verification: Double-check that your backup includes critical data such as Health and Activity tracking information.

Upgrading to a Refurbished Apple Watch

If you are considering upgrading your Apple Watch, purchasing a refurbished model can be smart and sustainable. Providers like Roobotech offer expertly refurbished Apple Watches that come with warranties and undergo rigorous quality checks.

Benefits of Refurbished Apple Watches

  • Comprehensive inspection and testing to ensure optimal functionality.

  • Replacement of damaged components with certified parts.

  • Thorough cleaning and restoration to like-new condition.

  • Significant cost savings compared to new models.

  • Comprehensive warranties for added peace of mind.

  • Dedicated customer support for all post-purchase inquiries.

Refurbished Apple Watches are an excellent option for users seeking the latest technology without breaking the bank or contributing to electronic waste. Whether you are upgrading for fitness tracking, enhanced connectivity, or style, consider this sustainable alternative.

Buy a Refurbished Apple Watch from Roobotech in Australia

Looking for an Apple Watch without spending too much? Roobotech in Australia offers affordable, refurbished Apple Watches that work like new.

Each watch is carefully cleaned, tested, and fixed if needed, so you get a high-quality device while helping reduce electronic waste.

Roobotech also gives a warranty for extra peace of mind. Plus, you will save money that you can use for accessories or other tech. Their friendly team is ready to help you pick the right watch.

For fitness, staying connected, or upgrading your gadgets, a refurbished Apple Watch from Roobotech is a great choice.

FAQs

How can I connect my old Apple Watch to my new iPhone?

Open the Apple Watch app on your new iPhone and follow the on-screen instructions. Ensure that the watch is unpaired from the old device beforehand.

How can I connect my Apple Watch to a new phone without erasing it?

Back up your old iPhone and restore the data onto your new device. Your Apple Watch should automatically sync with the new iPhone.

Why won’t my Apple Watch connect to my phone?

Ensure both devices are updated to the latest software versions, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are enabled, and the watch is reset if necessary.

Can I pair my Apple Watch with an Android device?

No, Apple Watches are exclusively designed to work with iPhones.

What should I do if the pairing process gets stuck?

Restart your devices and try again. If the issue persists, reset your Apple Watch and repeat the pairing process.

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