Unpairing Apple Watch resets it completely. The best way is to unpair via iPhoneWatch App → tap i → Unpair Apple Watch.You can also unpair from Apple Watch Settings → General → Reset → Erase All Content and Settings → Erase All
What will happen if I unpair my Apple Watch?How to unpair Apple Watch from iPhoneHow to unpair an Apple Watch without the iPhoneErase an Apple Watch via iCloudWhat if you’re unable to unpair your Apple Watch?
What will happen if I unpair my Apple Watch?
Unpairing restores the Apple Watch to its factory settings, which means all data, apps, and settings are erased. Furthermore, the status of the Activation Lock depends upon the process used. For instance, if you unpair via iPhone, it is removed, and if via Apple Watch, it remains active. The backup situation also depends on the process used, so check or, better yet, manually back up your Apple Watch before unpairing.
How to unpair Apple Watch from iPhone
For all instances and purposes, this should be the preferred method because:
The iPhone auto-creates a backup of the Apple Watch before erasing all content and settings. This can be later used to restore a new or same Apple Watch.Activation Lock is completely disabled, so you are free to sell, pass on, or re-pair the Apple Watch.
Before starting the process, ensure the Apple Watch and iPhone are close together. Note: If you’re not going to pair another cellular watch, contact your carrier and cancel your subscription to avoid additional charges.
How to unpair an Apple Watch without the iPhone
You can unpair the Apple Watch even if you do not have access to the paired iPhone. However,
This method does not create an auto-backup as the iPhone isn’t physically near or connected.The Activation Lock stays put; you’ll have to manually remove it later.
Once the process is complete, your Apple Watch is wiped out of all media, data, and settings. As mentioned earlier, the Activation Lock still remains. You’ll need to enter the previous Apple ID and password before the watch can be paired to another or the same iPhone. Or you can get rid of Activation Lock by using Find My, as illustrated below.
How to erase an Apple Watch via iCloud
If your Apple Watch is blocked with Activation Lock or you’ve sold/passed it on, this step is a saving grace to unlock and ensure seamless usage. Alternatively, you can also:
What if you’re unable to unpair your Apple Watch?
I have faced this a fair few times. Due to network or device issues, the unpairing process is interrupted in the middle. And because of that, the Apple Watch is stuck in stasis, where you can’t re-pair or unpair it. So, here’s what to do:
1. Restart both devices
Restart your iPhone and Apple Watch, and try again. Hopefully, this will resolve the problem. If not, try the next step.
2. Force erase Apple Watch
One requirement for this process to be successful is that your Apple Watch should be locked with a passcode. The process erases data and settings from Apple Watch and unpairs it, although Activation Lock in intact. You can pair it to the same or different iPhone either by providing the Apple ID and password or removing it via iCloud.
3. Contact Apple Support
Although it has never come to this point for me, if nothing else is working for you, it’s time to contact Apple Support and get their aid. Signing off… I hope you were able to unpair and eventually pair, sell, or give off your Apple Watch. If I haven’t covered your questions or any problem still persists, please connect with us in the comment section below. Looking for more Apple Watch-related content? Here are the perfect references:
45 helpful Apple Watch tips and tricks: Be a pro!How to check the trade-in value of iPhone, Apple Watch, iPad, and MacBookApple Watch security features: All you need to keep your privacy intact
