How to Turn Off Downtime on Apple Watch: Tips for Better Control
Quick Answer:
To turn off Downtime on your Apple Watch, open “Settings” on your iPhone, tap “Screen Time,” then “Downtime“, and select “Turn Off Downtime“. This will sync with your paired Apple Watch.
Is your Apple Watch stuck on Downtime mode and you don’t know how to turn it off?
Downtime may be limiting your watch experience, but fortunately, there’s a solution.
In this post, we’ll explain how to turn off Downtime on Apple Watch, so you can regain control and enjoy your smartwatch to the fullest.
How to Turn Off Downtime on Apple Watch
Sometimes Downtime can get turned on without you knowing it. This can lead to missed text messages, phone calls or other important alerts.
Unfortunately, you can only turn it off can from your paired iPhone. For some reason, you can’t enable or disable it from your Apple Watch.
- Open the “Watch” app on your iPhone.
- Scroll down and tap “Screen Time“.
- Tap “Downtime.”
- Select “Turn Off Downtime.”
There will be a few second delay, but your watch should turn off Downtime and the purple hourglass will disappear.
Downtime Won’t Turn Off
If Downtime won’t turn off, it’s likely due to a software glitch. Follow these steps to fix it:
1. Restart Your Apple Watch
Sometimes all it takes is a simple restart to fix a software glitch. To restart your Apple Watch hold the right side button, tap the power icon on the top right, then slide right to power off.
2. Unpair/Pair Your Apple Watch
If restarting didn’t work, then unpair your Apple Watch and pair it again.
What is Downtime on Apple Watch?
Downtime is a feature available on Apple Watch that allows users to schedule a specific time period during which only certain apps and features can be accessed.
It’s designed to help you focus and minimize distractions during important tasks or designated quiet times. However, for some users, this feature may not be necessary or may feel too restrictive.
That’s where our guide comes in to help you disable Downtime and gain better control of your Apple Watch experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a way to allow specific apps during Downtime?
Yes, you can choose which apps are accessible during Downtime by customizing your “Always Allowed” list in the Screen Time settings on your iPhone.
Can I set different Downtime schedules for weekdays and weekends?
Yes, you can create different Downtime schedules for each day of the week in the Screen Time settings on your iPhone.
Will my iPhone’s Downtime settings sync with my Apple Watch?
Yes, your Apple Watch will sync with your iPhone’s Downtime settings automatically. In fact, the only way to control Downtime is through your paired iPhone.
What is the purple hour glass on my Apple Watch?
The purple hourglass on your Apple Watch screen means the watch is currently in Downtime mode.
I’ve tried everything and Downtime won’t turn off
If you’ve exhausted all efforts of getting Downtime to turn off, it may be time to contact Apple Support.
by Ken
Ken is a Data Analyst in the Healthcare industry and the owner and sole contributor to The Wearable Guy.