How do you reset an Apple Watch after forgetting the passcode?
Answer
Erase the Apple Watch from the watch screens or by unpairing in the Watch app on a trusted iPhone, then set it up again. If Apple ID security says the iPhone is too new and makes you wait until a listed date, use a longer-trusted device to reset the Apple ID password or wait out Apple’s security delay.
Before you start: stop right away if…
- Erasing an Apple Watch removes local data not stored in a Watch backup.
- Ignore anyone offering to unlock an Apple Watch without erase or Apple ID.
Follow these steps
Erase from the Watch if possible
On the Apple Watch, try Settings > General > Reset > Erase All Content and Settings, or follow onscreen erase after enough failed passcode attempts if offered.
You should see: The watch erases and restarts at setup.
Unpair from a trusted iPhone
If the paired iPhone is available, open the Watch app, select the watch, and choose Unpair Apple Watch to erase it and optionally save a backup.
You should see: The watch erases and can be set up again.
Handle Apple ID “too new” waits
If changing the Apple ID password is blocked because the iPhone is too new until a date such as May 18, use another device that has been signed into that Apple ID longer, or wait until Apple’s date.
You should see: You can reset or enter the Apple ID credentials when Activation Lock requires them.
Set up the Watch again
Pair the erased Watch as new or from backup, then create a new passcode you will remember.
You should see: The Watch is usable again with a new passcode.
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Extra tips
What to look for: Apple Watch is locked with a forgotten passcode, and Apple ID changes may show the iPhone is too new with a wait-until date.
Before you change anything: Know the Apple ID password for the watch. Expect the watch content to erase unless backed up via the paired iPhone. Prefer a longer-trusted Apple device for account changes if a new iPhone is blocked.