Closing apps on an Apple Watch just takes a few quick steps. Simply press the side button, swipe left on the app you want to close, and tap the red X button. That’s it! Your app is closed, and your Apple Watch can run smoothly.
Once you complete this action, the app will no longer be running in the background. This can help free up resources on your Apple Watch, potentially improving its performance and battery life.
Introduction
Have you ever noticed your Apple Watch slowing down or its battery draining faster than usual? One possible reason could be that too many apps are running in the background. Just like on an iPhone, it’s important to close apps that you’re not using on your Apple Watch. This simple task can help keep your device running smoothly and extend its battery life.
If you’re new to the Apple Watch or just haven’t figured out how to manage your apps, you’re in the right place. Closing apps on the Apple Watch is quick, easy, and can make a noticeable difference in how your device performs. This article is perfect for Apple Watch users of all levels who want to keep their watch in top shape.
How to Close Apps on Apple Watch Tutorial
Before diving into the steps, know that closing apps on your Apple Watch can help declutter your app view and may improve the overall performance of your device.
Step 1: Press the Side Button
Press the side button on your Apple Watch to bring up the dock with all your recently used apps.
The side button is located below the digital crown on the side of your Apple Watch. When you press it, you’ll see a list of apps that are currently open or that you’ve recently used.
Step 2: Swipe Left on the App
Swipe left on the app you want to close to reveal a red X button.
Swiping left on the app card will make a red X appear. This red X is your ticket to closing the app.
Step 3: Tap the Red X Button
Tap the red X button to close the app.
Once you tap the red X, the app will disappear from your dock. This means it’s no longer running in the background.
Pros
| Benefit | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Improved Battery Life | Closing apps that are not in use can help reduce battery drain, as fewer processes are running in the background. |
| Better Performance | With fewer apps running, your Apple Watch can operate more smoothly, with faster response times and less lag. |
| Easier Navigation | Closing apps can declutter your dock, making it easier to find and open the apps you actually want to use. |
Cons
| Drawback | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Time-Consuming | If you have a lot of apps open, it can be time-consuming to close them all individually. |
| Accidental Closures | It’s possible to accidentally close an app that you intended to keep open. |
| Limited Impact | Closing apps may not significantly improve performance if your Apple Watch is already running efficiently. |
Additional Information
While closing apps can be beneficial, it’s also important to note that the Apple Watch is designed to manage apps efficiently on its own. Apps not actively in use typically aren’t draining resources, as the watch puts them in a suspended state.
Therefore, while it’s good practice to close apps you’re finished with, don’t feel you need to obsessively close every app all the time. Additionally, rebooting your Apple Watch can also be a good way to refresh the system if you’re noticing sluggish performance. Remember, closing apps on your Apple Watch is just one part of overall device management.
Summary
- Press the side button
- Swipe left on the app
- Tap the red X button
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I see which apps are running on my Apple Watch?
Press the side button to bring up the dock, which displays your recently used apps.
Can I close all apps at once?
No, you must close each app individually by swiping left and tapping the red X.
Will closing apps delete any data?
No, closing an app does not delete its data. It simply stops the app from running in the background.
Do I need to close apps to install updates?
No, your Apple Watch will manage app updates automatically, regardless of whether the apps are open or closed.
How often should I close apps on my Apple Watch?
There’s no set frequency; you can close apps as needed to declutter your dock or when you feel your watch is slowing down.
Conclusion
Closing apps on your Apple Watch is a breeze and can contribute to a better, more efficient user experience. Whether you’re looking to preserve battery life, boost performance, or simply tidy up your app view, the few seconds it takes to close an app is well worth it. Keep in mind that while it’s a helpful practice, your Apple Watch is already pretty good at managing its resources.
So, don’t stress too much about having to close apps all the time. Instead, enjoy the seamless experience and all the ingenious features your Apple Watch has to offer.
Matthew Burleigh has been a freelance writer since the early 2000s. You can find his writing all over the Web, where his content has collectively been read millions of times.
Matthew received his Master’s degree in Computer Science, then spent over a decade as an IT consultant for small businesses before focusing on writing and website creation.
The topics he covers for MasterYourTech.com include iPhones, Microsoft Office, and Google Apps.
You can read his full bio here.