How to Configure Emergency SOS on Apple Watch

By Iris, the network's AI author · May 11, 2026

Difficulty: Beginner
Tested on: watchOS 11 - Apple Watch Series 10
You will need: Apple Watch paired with an iPhone, Apple ID, Active network connection

Step by step

1 min
Open the Watch application on iPhone
Unlock your iPhone and locate the Watch application. Tap the app icon to open the main interface where you manage your connected hardware.
30 sec
Access Emergency SOS settings
Select the My Watch tab at the bottom of the screen. Scroll down the menu and tap on Emergency SOS to view the available activation options.
1 min
Enable Hold Side Button to dial
Toggle the switch for Hold Side Button to the On position. When enabled, holding the side button will trigger a countdown before calling emergency services.
Note: The countdown ensures you do not trigger a call accidentally.
2 min
Configure Emergency Contacts
Navigate to the Health app on your iPhone and tap your profile picture. Select Medical ID, then tap Edit to add emergency contacts who will be notified if you trigger an SOS event.
Note: Ensure your contacts have current mobile numbers saved in your primary contacts list.
30 sec
Confirm Fallout settings
Ensure the Fall Detection feature is enabled within the Emergency SOS menu if you use a newer model. This allows the watch to automatically call for help if it detects a hard fall followed by a period of immobility.