Most smartwatches need a companion app on your phone to sync the time, notifications and health data. Setting the watch up properly the first time avoids common problems such as missing notifications or calls that won't connect. Steps differ by brand, so keep the manual handy.
Before you begin
- Charge the watch fully with the charger that came with it.
- Check compatibility. The Redmi Watch 5 Lite, for example, lists compatibility with Android 8.0 and above and iOS 12.0 and above.
- Find the right app. The manual or listing names it. The Fastrack Limitless Glide uses the Fastrack Reflex World app, and the Noise Pulse 4 Max uses the Noise Fit app.
- Download the app only from Google Play or the App Store, and check that the developer name matches the brand.
Step-by-step setup
- Switch on the watch, usually by pressing and holding the side button or by placing it on the charger, and choose a language if asked.
- Open the companion app and sign in or create an account if it asks you to.
- Pair the watch from inside the app, using its add-device option or by scanning the QR code shown on the watch. Avoid pairing it only through your phone's Bluetooth settings unless the manual tells you to.
- Allow the permissions the app needs. On Android, this usually includes Nearby devices (for Bluetooth) and notification access. On iPhone, allow Bluetooth access, and if a prompt asks to share notifications with the watch, allow it.
- Fill in your profile, as age, height and weight are used for calorie and activity estimates.
- If the watch supports Bluetooth calling, switch it on and approve the extra pairing request for call audio.
- Choose which apps can send notifications to the watch.
- Check for a firmware update in the app, and keep the watch charged and close to the phone while it installs.
Keeping notifications and sync working
- Android battery settings: some phones stop apps running in the background to save power. Go to Settings > Apps, choose the companion app, open its battery settings and allow background usage (often called Unrestricted). The wording varies by phone brand.
- Notification access: if alerts stop, search your phone's Settings for "notification access" and check that the companion app is still allowed.
- iPhone: keep Background App Refresh on for the app (Settings > General > Background App Refresh) and open the app now and then so it can sync.
- Keep Bluetooth on, and keep your phone within range of the watch.
A note on health readings
Heart rate, SpO2, sleep and similar readings are estimates for general wellness, not medical use. For more consistent readings, wear the watch snugly about a finger's width above your wrist bone.
Quick answers
Should I pair from my phone's Bluetooth settings or the app?
Use the companion app unless the manual says otherwise. Pairing only through Bluetooth settings can leave out features such as notifications and data sync. Calling watches may also need a second pairing, which the app guides you through.
Why is my watch showing the wrong time?
The watch usually takes the time from your phone through the app. Open the app to sync, and check that your phone's date, time and time zone are correct.
Can I use the watch without the app?
Basic features such as the clock and some tracking often work, but notifications, settings, history and firmware updates need the app.
Browse our smartwatches, and read Bluetooth Calling on Smartwatches: How It Works if your watch supports calls.
