How to Restore an Apple Watch from Backup

Step by step

1. 1 min

   Unpair the existing Apple Watch

   Open the Watch app on your iPhone. Navigate to the All Watches tab at the top left, tap the Info icon next to your device, and select Unpair Apple Watch to ensure a fresh backup is created.

   Note: Unpairing automatically forces your iPhone to create a new backup of your Apple Watch.
2. 1 min

   Power on the target device

   Ensure your Apple Watch is charged and powered on. Hold the side button until the Apple logo appears to start the boot sequence.

3. 2 min

   Connect the watch to your iPhone

   Bring your iPhone close to the Apple Watch. Wait for the Set Up This Apple Watch prompt to appear on your iPhone screen and tap Continue.

4. 1 min

   Select the restore option

   Follow the on-screen instructions until you reach the screen labeled Restore from Backup. Select the most recent backup file from the list to begin the data transfer.

   Note: Only backups created while the watch was paired to your current Apple ID will appear.
5. 2 min

   Finalize the restoration

   Allow the progress ring to complete on the Apple Watch screen. Keep both devices in close proximity to ensure a stable connection during the data sync.

   Note: Large backups may take longer to sync depending on the volume of photos and music stored on the device.