How to disconnect your Apple Watch without losing data
Unpairing your Apple Watch sounds simple. Until you realize what could go wrong. Months of exercise data, heart rate readings, sleep patterns—all gone with a single wrong tap. Or worse: your other Apple devices suddenly stop syncing. So, most people just fiddle around in the settings, hoping for the best.
But here's what no one tells you: the problem isn't the technology, but the order . Apple has a built-in safety mode that protects your data—if you follow the right steps. The crazy thing is, this feature has been around since 2015, but Apple barely promotes it. Probably because they'd rather you buy new accessories or upgrade to devices with Apple Intelligence if you run into problems. Time to reveal that hidden path.
Useful links
Before You Begin: Why the Right Order is Critical
Unpairing your Apple Watch might seem like a simple matter of a few taps in the settings. Yet, it often goes wrong. The reason? Apple has built in a specific order to protect your data. If you skip steps or perform them in the wrong order, you risk data loss or syncing issues with your other devices.
The built-in safety mode only works if you disconnect it from your iPhone first. This automatically activates a backup of all your health data, workout data, and personal settings. This backup is directly linked to your Apple ID, allowing you to restore everything to a new watch later.
The complete step-by-step guide
Step 1: Check your connections
Before you do anything, check these points:
- Your iPhone and Apple Watch are paired and within range of each other
- Both devices have at least 50% battery
- You have a stable WiFi connection
- You know your Apple ID password
This last point is crucial. Without your Apple ID password, you can't disable Activation Lock. This security system prevents anyone else from using your stolen watch.
Step 2: Make a manual backup (extra security)
Although the disconnect process automatically creates a backup, a manual backup is always a good idea:
- Open the Watch app on your iPhone
- Go to 'General' → 'Reset'
- Choose 'Back up Apple Watch'
- Wait for the backup to complete (this may take 5-15 minutes)
The backup includes your health and fitness data, app layouts, system settings, messages, and photos stored on your watch. Music, podcasts, and audiobooks aren't included—you'll need to sync those again later.
Step 3: The actual disconnection
Now comes the most important part:
- Open the Watch app on your iPhone
- Tap 'All watches' at the top
- Tap the info icon (i) next to the watch you want to unpair
- Select 'Unpair Apple Watch'
- Confirm your choice and enter your Apple ID password
During this process, three things happen simultaneously: your watch is unpaired, a final backup is created, and Activation Lock is disabled. This process can take up to 10 minutes, depending on the amount of data to be transferred.
Step 4: Reset Watch Without iPhone
Don't have your iPhone handy? You can reset the watch directly, but be careful: you may lose recent data.
- Go to 'Settings' on your Apple Watch
- Tap 'General' → 'Reset'
- Select 'Erase all content and settings'
- Enter your password if prompted
Important: This method does not automatically disable Activation Lock. You must do this manually via iCloud.com before selling or giving away your watch.
Specific scenarios and solutions
When selling or giving away
When you sell or give away your Apple Watch, there are additional steps required:
- Delete all personal information via a full reset
- Check if the activation lock is turned off
- Remove the watch from your list of devices on iCloud.com
- Please keep the original packaging and accessories for the new owner.
When upgrading to a new model
Upgrading to a newer Apple Watch? You can use your old backup to transfer everything. The system automatically recognizes your last backup when you pair the new watch. All health data, achievements, and settings will be transferred.
Considering a refurbished model? This is an excellent choice for those who want to upgrade sustainably without breaking the bank. These devices are fully tested and work like new, yet have a much smaller environmental footprint.
Common problems and their solutions
Watch not responding while disconnecting
Sometimes the disconnection process gets stuck. Try these solutions:
- Restart both devices and try again
- Make sure both devices are up to date
- Turn Airplane Mode on and off on your iPhone
- Reset your network settings as a last resort
Backup fails repeatedly
If the backup continues to fail, check:
- Whether you have enough iCloud storage space
- Whether your WiFi connection is stable
- Whether there is a VPN active that blocks the connection
After disconnecting: what now?
Once disconnected, you have several options. You can re-pair the watch with the same iPhone, pair it with a different iPhone, or prepare the watch for sale. For the latter, it's important to check that all personal data has been erased.
Also consider what you do with your old watch. Recycling through Apple's program is an option, but selling it as a refurbished device gives it a second life. This aligns with the circular economy and reduces electronic waste.
Tips for a smooth process
Finally, some practical tips that make the difference:
- Do the disconnection in the evening when you have time
- Make sure both devices are connected to the charger during the process
- Take screenshots of your most important settings
- Make a note of which apps you had installed for later reference
- Afterwards, test whether all your other Apple devices still sync correctly
Unpairing your Apple Watch doesn't have to be a stressful experience. With the right preparation and this guide, you'll get through it without a hitch. The most important thing is to follow the steps in the correct order and be patient throughout the process.
The Right Way to Unpair Your Apple Watch
Unpairing your Apple Watch is all about one thing: the correct order . Always start on your iPhone, not directly on the watch itself. This automatically activates the built-in backup and preserves all your workout data and health measurements. Remember to have your Apple ID password ready and ensure sufficient battery life on both devices.
Following these steps will prevent data loss and syncing issues. Whether you're upgrading to a newer model or reselling your current watch, this approach will always work.
