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You are here: Home / Not working? / Apple Watch Series 8 not turning on? Here’s how to fix it

Apple Watch Series 8 not turning on? Here’s how to fix it

Last Updated: October 2, 2022 by Dave Johnson

If your Apple Watch Series 8 won’t turn on, there are several ways to troubleshoot it. In this article, I’ll explain why your Apple Watch Series 8 won’t turn on and show you how to fix this problem for good.

Apple Watch Series 8

If your Apple Watch Series 8 doesn’t turn on, it might be dead or facing issues charging. You could also be stuck on a setting such as Battery reserve or Theater mode, both of which create the appearance of a black screen. Finally, you may need to force the device to restart.

Why is my Apple Watch Series 8 not turning on?

Before you give up, there are a few fixable reasons for your Apple Watch Series 8 not turning on. If none of the problems below apply to you, it may be time to take your device in for a checkup at an Apple store.

  • The watch is out of battery: The most obvious reason for your Apple Watch Series 8 not turning on is that the battery is dead. Without juice, it’s just a glorified bracelet. Luckily, this is the easiest solution to fix. On the Series 8, charging from 0—80% takes only 45 minutes.
  • Your charger isn’t working properly: If you left your watch to charge up and came back to a device that still won’t turn on, your charger may be the culprit. Faulty third-party chargers or even a worn-out one from Apple are worth replacing. There is also the possibility that the outlet you are plugging into isn’t supplying power.
  • Your Apple Watch is frozen: Apple Watches can sometimes freeze or get stuck on a black screen. Often, this is the result of an outdated version of watchOS or a glitchy app.
  • Your Apple Watch is in Power Reserve or Theater Mode: There is, of course, a chance your watch is actually on but using a setting that limits your use. In Power Reserve, you can’t access watch features beyond the time, and your watch and iPhone can’t communicate. Unless you press the side button, your device will appear to be off. Similarly, Theater Mode turns off audio alerts and disables the device’s ‘raise to wake screen’ gesture.
  • Physical damage: If you dropped your Watch recently, it might stop working, even if it’s not showing any physical damage. To check for this you should shine a light on the screen to check for damage and also try calling the phone to see if the Watch rings or vibrates. If you’ve had your screen cracked for a while, it’s possible that continuous usage has caused further damage to the phone causing it to look like it is off.
  • Software Issues: Occasionally, your Apple Watch won’t turn on due to software issues. Certain apps and watchOS updates might cause problems and sometimes, if your Watch crashes while your operating system is updating, your Apple Watch might also become unresponsive.

How to fix Apple Watch Series 8 not turning on issue

If (fingers crossed) you’re facing a minor issue, one of the solutions below will likely help you get your Apple Watch turned back on. If your watch is completely shot, it may just be time to replace it.

Charge your battery

Fully discharged batteries are the number one cause of Apple Watch Series 8 not turning on. Plug your charger in (make sure the plug is switched on!) and wait 30-60 minutes so that your device can get enough power to start again. Once you’ve waited for this length of time, try turning it on.

See also: Apple Watch series 8 not charging? 10 Ways to Fix The Issue

Assess your charger and outlet

You will know your device is charging when a lightning bolt appears on the screen. If this does not occur after a few moments, you may have an issue with your power supply. Check your outlet with an alternative device. Confirm that your charging block and cable are plugged in and your watch is aligned correctly. If the outlet is working and both the charging pack and device are clear of debris, you may need to replace your charging cable.

Reboot your Watch

It’s one of the mysteries of the world (okay, maybe not), but a hard reset often works wonders when troubleshooting a whole range of issues. If your Apple Watch Series 8 won’t turn on, force a restart by simultaneously pressing and holding the Digital Crown and side button. Do this for at least 10 seconds or until you see the Apple logo. Your device may have frozen and could require juice once it powers up.

Additionally, make sure you are running the latest version of watchOS available. Regular software updates ensure battery use efficiency and make sure you are free of bugs.

Disable Power Reserve and Theater Mode

To disable Power Reserve, press and hold the side button until the Apple logo appears, then wait for your device to restart. You will likely also need to charge the device. To disable Theater Mode, tap your display, swipe up to open the Control Center, and tap the Theater Mode icon (two masks).

Fixed Apple Watch Series 8 not turning on problem

So, that wraps up this detailed troubleshooting guide about fixing Apple Watch Series 8 not turning on issue. Apple Watch Series 8 is faced with several annoying issues including the rapid battery drain problem, the inability to install apps and charge the Apple Watch. Let me know your experience of using Apple Watch Series 8 and whether or not the above fixes have worked for you..

About Dave Johnson

Dave Johnson is the editor-in-chief of iPhoneArena. He covers how-to guides, and troubleshooting instructions for iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple Watch.

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