If an app becomes unusable on an Apple Watch the easiest way to sort things out is to force that app to close. Thankfully doing so is easy if you follow the instructions below.
Whether it’s one downloaded from the App Store on the wearable or a native service that came preinstalled, apps on the Apple Watch are usually reliable. That’s not always the case, though; sometimes issues can arise that stop apps from performing as they should. When that happens, this simple guide will guide you into getting things back to normal.
Like on an iPhone, it’s unnecessary to close apps unless they are acting up. If everything is running as it should, you can leave apps open.
What you’ll need:
The Short Version
Unlock Apple WatchDouble press the Digital CrownSwipe away the app you wish to closeTap the big red X
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Step 1 Unlock the Apple WatchTo begin, unlock the Apple Watch. This is the correct method for wearables running watchOS 10, it differs slightly if using an older version. Step 2 Double press the Digital CrownOnce the watch is unlocked and you’re looking at the watch face, double press the Digital Crown on the side of the device. Step 3 Swipe away the app you wish to closeYou should now see a list of all the recent apps. To close the app that is not responding as it should, swipe it away. Step 4 Tap the big red XOnce you’ve started to swipe an app away, a big red X should appear in a box. Tap this to force close the app.
Troubleshooting
Does this work on watchOS 9? If your Apple Watch is running watchOS 9 or earlier, press the Side button instead of double tapping the Digital Crown and then follow the rest of the instructions.
