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To set up an Apple Watch, pair it with an iPhone in Apple’s Watch app. To set up a Google Pixel Watch, use the Google Pixel Watch app on a compatible Android phone. Both setup flows guide you through pairing, account sign-in and optional backup restoration; cellular activation is optional.
Before you start: check the phone, app and connection
These watches use different phone platforms and companion apps, so confirm compatibility before you begin. Requirements can change; use the manufacturers’ current compatibility information for your exact watch, phone and region.
| Setup item | Apple Watch | Google Pixel Watch |
|---|---|---|
| Phone | An iPhone. Apple’s guide accessed October 7, 2026 lists Apple Watch SE 3, Series 9, Ultra 2 or later with watchOS 27 or later, paired with iPhone 11 or later running iOS 27 or later. Check Apple’s current setup and compatibility guidance for the exact model; do not apply these requirements to older watches. | A compatible, updated Android phone. Google says most phones running Android 10.0 or newer are supported, subject to compatibility and account requirements. Check the current Pixel Watch setup guide for model and region exceptions. |
| Companion app | Apple Watch app, usually already on the iPhone | Google Pixel Watch app, updated to the latest compatible version |
| Account and connection | Apple Account; Bluetooth on; iPhone connected to Wi-Fi or cellular | Google Account; internet connection; Bluetooth on and location permission allowed |
| Restore choice | Restore a prior watch backup or set up as new when offered | Restore an available backup or choose “Don’t restore” |
| Cellular | Optional; activation is available during or after setup, subject to carrier and region | Optional; LTE service depends on a compatible plan, carrier and region |
How to set up an Apple Watch
- Update the iPhone to the latest iOS version compatible with your devices. Turn on Bluetooth and connect the iPhone to Wi-Fi or cellular. Confirm the watch and iPhone meet Apple’s current requirements.
- Put on the watch and hold its side button until the Apple logo appears. If it does not turn on, charge it. Keep the iPhone near the watch until the pairing prompt appears, then tap Continue. If no prompt appears, open the Watch app and tap Start Pairing.
- Choose Set Up for Myself. Hold the watch in the Watch app’s viewfinder to pair it. If camera pairing does not work, choose Pair Apple Watch Manually and follow the displayed instructions.
- Follow the setup assistant to sign in to your Apple Account, create a passcode, and select text size and any personal or health settings you want to configure.
- If this iPhone has already managed an Apple Watch, review the Express Setup options and choose a previous watch backup or set up the new watch as new, where offered.
- Choose whether to configure cellular now or later. Keep the iPhone and watch close while they sync; the watch face indicates when syncing is complete.
How to set up a Google Pixel Watch
- Have the included charging cable and a Google Account ready. Charge the watch and phone, update the phone and Pixel Watch app, and enable Bluetooth, internet access and location permission. Attach and adjust the selected band for a comfortable fit; Google’s band instructions apply to compatible bands, so check generation compatibility if using a separately purchased one.
- Hold the watch’s crown for about three seconds to turn it on. Place it near the Android phone. A Fast Pair prompt may appear; otherwise open the Google Pixel Watch app and follow its instructions to select your watch.
- Compare the pairing codes shown on the phone and watch. Tap Pair only if they match. If they do not, restart the watch and try again; if the codes still differ, follow Google’s pairing troubleshooting steps.
- Sign in with your Google Account, complete any verification and accept the terms. Select the purchase country for limited-warranty checking. When prompted, restore an available backup or choose Don’t restore, then choose your wrist and crown orientation.
- Choose Start using your watch to finish, or continue to Set up more for available options such as health features, cellular, safety features, screen lock, Wallet and apps. The watch may update automatically; the app displays Connected when the connection succeeds.
Restore a backup or start fresh?
Apple Watch
If the setup assistant offers a backup from a previous Apple Watch, restoring it carries forward that watch’s setup. Choose the new-watch option if you want to configure it from scratch. The available choices depend on the iPhone and watch setup state; Apple describes them in its pairing and setup guide.
Google Pixel Watch
Restoring a Google Pixel Watch backup can bring back apps, data, settings, the watch face and tiles. Google recommends backing up before changing watches or phones; follow its transfer and upgrade guidance before unpairing or resetting a watch. In some same-phone re-pair situations—such as after a phone reset or returning to a phone previously paired with the watch—Google documents an error that may require backing up, factory-resetting, pairing again and then restoring the backup.
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#1 Best Overall
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Elebase USB to USB C Adapter for iPhone 18 Pro Max,USBC Car Charger Adapter
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
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- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
Is cellular setup required?
No. You can complete basic setup without activating cellular. Apple allows cellular configuration during setup or later in the Watch app. In a typical Apple setup, the watch uses the same carrier as its managing iPhone; a Family Sharing setup is an exception. Availability varies by country and region. See Apple’s current instructions for your setup.
Pixel Watch LTE can connect directly to a cellular network for calls and apps away from the phone when activated with a compatible carrier. Carrier and regional availability, setup steps and terms differ. Google notes that a separate line is needed even when the watch can share the phone’s number; check its carrier and cellular-plan guidance and your carrier’s terms. This is not a prerequisite for pairing or ordinary setup.
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Anker USB-C Hub, 5-in-1 USB Hub for Laptops, 4K HDMI Multiport Adapter
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
If pairing fails, troubleshoot before erasing
Pixel Watch: check the connection and restart
- Confirm the watch has charge and that the phone, watch and Pixel Watch app are up to date.
- Turn on Bluetooth, location and Wi-Fi or mobile internet, and keep the watch close to the phone. For Fast Pair, Google specifies a distance of 0.5 m (1.6 ft).
- Restart the watch by holding the crown for three seconds, selecting Restart, waiting for it to boot, then retrying setup near the phone.
- If the pairing codes differ, do not approve pairing; restart and retry. For persistent problems, use Google’s setup and pairing troubleshooting guide.
Apple Watch: check pairing state and use manual pairing
- If the watch face appears when you are trying to begin setup, Apple says the watch is already paired. It must be erased or reset before it can be paired again; consult Apple’s current pairing instructions for the appropriate steps.
- If the camera viewfinder cannot pair the watch, choose Pair Apple Watch Manually in the Watch app.
- For other connection problems, follow Apple’s current pairing support instructions rather than repeatedly restarting setup.
Make a factory reset a last resort
A Pixel Watch factory reset erases apps, settings and data. Back up first if possible, and use Google’s instructions for the watch’s specific state rather than resetting as an initial pairing fix. Google’s troubleshooting guide and transfer guidance cover recovery and re-pairing.
Quick Recap
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Anker USB C Hub, 5-in-1 USBC to HDMI Splitter with 4K Display
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
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UGREEN USB to USB C Adapter Combo 4-Pack, 10Gbps USB C Converter Space Gray
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
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Anker USB C Hub, 7in1 Multi-Port USB Adapter, 4K@60Hz USBC to HDMI Splitter
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
