How to remove and change your Apple Watch band
You’re not just stuck with the band your Apple Watch came with. In fact, you can change up the look of most smart watches anytime you like — with Apple and third-party brands offering different Apple Watch straps in loads of cool colours and materials.
In our guide, we’ll show you how to remove the strap on your Apple Watch and how to fit a new band in a matter of seconds. And if you’re confused about which bands are compatible with your Apple Watch model — we’ve got all the advice you need to shop for the right size.
How to remove your Apple Watch band
You won’t be needing a special screwdriver to get the strap off your Apple Watch. You can do it in a few ticks without any tools — just follow these steps:
- If you’re wearing your Apple Watch, take it off and place it face down on a desk or on your lap.
- Press and hold down one of the two band release buttons on the back of your Apple Watch.
- Keeping the button held down, slide the end of the strap nearest to that button across to the side to remove it.
- Repeat the steps above to remove the band from the other side of your Apple Watch.
How to change your Apple Watch band
Can’t wait to see how that new strap will look on you? Fortunately, you can get that fresh band fitted to your watch and wrist really fast. Here’s how to do it:
- Make sure you’ve removed your old Apple Watch strap (using our instructions above).
- Take one end of your new band and slide it into the slot at the top or bottom side of your Apple Watch until you hear a small click.
- Repeat the step above to sort out the other side of your Apple Watch.
Apple Watch band sizes explained
If you’re keen to buy a new band for your Apple smart watch, then you’ll have to make sure you get one that’s compatible with your device’s case. Whether it’s a water-resistant Sport Loop to go swimming with your Apple Watch, or a classy Milanese Loop made from stainless steel.
The most important thing to know is that bands for 38mm, 40mm, and 41mm Apple Watch cases are all compatible with each other. While bands for 42mm, 44mm, 45mm, and 49mm cases will all work with one another.
This means that if you have an Apple Watch that’s 38mm, 40mm, or 41mm — get a 41mm band. And if your Apple Watch is 42mm, 44mm, 45mm, or 49mm — go for a 45mm band. If you’re not sure about the size of your Apple Watch’s case, just take it off and check the underside.
FAQs
Why won’t my Apple Watch band click into place?
If you don’t hear or feel a click when installing your new Apple Watch band, try sliding it to the left and right until it snaps into place. You’ll know it’s fitted correctly once it no longer slides from side to side. If the strap still doesn’t lock — try and move it to the centre position and gently push or wiggle it up and down instead.
Why is my Apple Watch band stuck?
If you’re having trouble removing your Apple Watch band, there are a few simple things you can do to get it unstuck:
- Press the release button correctly: You need to make sure you’re holding the strap release button down while sliding the band out of the slot. Try pressing it in a few times to loosen it up if you’re having trouble getting the strap out.
- Use a little force: Apple Watch bands should be easy to remove, but sometimes they can be a little tight. Try pulling a little harder if so, but don’t use too much force or you could end up damaging the strap or your watch.
- Clean the slot: If your Apple Watch strap is still stuck, it could be because there’s dirt trapped in the slot. Try using a toothbrush or water to clean out the slot and remove any debris that might be causing the issue.
Source: CURRYS