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How Do I Set Up WearOS 5 for the First Time?

Setting up WearOS 5 requires proper phone preparation, app installation, and systematic pairing to ensure all features work correctly. Both phone and watch should have 50%+ battery before starting.


Pre-Setup Requirements

  • Android Phone: Android 6.0+ with at least 1.5GB RAM and Google Mobile Services.

  • Sufficient Storage: Ensure 2GB+ free space on phone for companion apps and data sync.

  • Stable Internet: Strong WiFi connection for downloading apps and system updates.

  • Charged Devices: Both phone and watch should have 50%+ battery before starting.


Step-by-Step Setup

  1. Download Companion App: Install Wear OS by Google or Galaxy Wearable (Samsung watches) from Play Store.

  2. Power On Watch: Hold power button until watch displays welcome screen and pairing instructions.

  3. Phone Detection: Open companion app and tap "Set up a new watch" when watch appears.

  4. Pairing Verification: Confirm matching pairing codes on both phone and watch screens.

  5. Account Setup: Sign in with Google account and configure basic preferences.


Configuration Options

  • Notification Preferences: Choose which apps can send notifications to your watch.

  • Google Pay Setup: Add payment cards for contactless payments (optional).

  • Health Apps: Configure Google Fit, Samsung Health, or Fitbit integration.

  • Watch Face Selection: Choose default watch face and customize complications.


Common Setup Issues

Pairing Failure

  1. Restart both devices
  2. Ensure Bluetooth is enabled
  3. Try pairing again
  4. If still failing, clear companion app cache and restart phone

App Installation Problems

  1. Clear companion app cache in phone Settings Apps Wear OS Storage Clear Cache
  2. Restart phone
  3. Try installation again

Google Account Issues

Ensure Google account has two-factor authentication configured properly and is verified.

Network Problems

Switch to different WiFi network or use mobile hotspot temporarily.


Post-Setup Optimization

  • System Updates: Check Settings System About System updates and install any available updates immediately.

  • App Downloads: Install essential apps like Gmail, Calendar, and your preferred fitness apps.

  • Battery Optimization: Disable battery optimization for companion apps in phone settings.

  • Permissions Review: Grant necessary permissions for health tracking, location, and notifications.


See Also: iPhone Compatibility|Performance Optimization|Notification Troubleshooting