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How to Turn On Google Pixel Watch 2

The Pixel Watch 2 features multiple power states and wake methods for convenient access throughout the day.

First Time Power On​

  1. Charge watch to at least 30% battery
  2. Press and hold crown for 2-3 seconds
  3. Wait for Google logo (30-60 seconds to boot)
  4. Follow setup wizard to pair with phone

Waking from Sleep​

  • Tilt to Wake: Raise and rotate wrist as if checking time. Configure at Settings Display Tilt to wake.

  • Tap to Wake: Gently tap anywhere on display for instant wake.

  • Crown Button: Single press wakes display. Works even with gloves.

Always-On Display​

Enable at Settings Display Always-on screen.

  • Continuous visibility: Time and complications always visible
  • Dimmed state: Minimal info at reduced brightness
  • Battery impact: Uses more power but Snapdragon W5 Gen 1 minimizes drain

Force Restart (Frozen Watch)​

If watch is completely unresponsive:

  1. Press and hold crown for 10-15 seconds
  2. Keep holding even if screen goes black
  3. Release when Google logo appears
  4. Wait 30-60 seconds for complete boot

Note: This doesn't erase data - just reboots the OS.

Power Off Completely​

  1. Press and hold crown for 2-3 seconds
  2. Tap Power off on screen
  3. Confirm shutdown
  4. Screen goes completely black when off

Note: Placing watch on charger automatically powers it on.

Troubleshooting Power Issues​

Watch Won't Turn On:

  1. Charge for 30+ minutes (depleted battery needs extended charging)
  2. Verify magnetic puck is properly aligned
  3. Try different USB-C adapter (5V/2A minimum)
  4. Attempt force restart even if screen appears off
  5. Contact Google support if still unresponsive

See Also: How to Charge|How to Reset|Battery Optimization

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