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To turn on a Galaxy Watch3, press and hold the Home (Power) key for a few seconds. If the screen stays black, place the watch on the charging dock made for its model; if charging does not help, force-restart it by holding Home (Power) and Back together for at least seven seconds. Button names and screens can differ across models and software versions.

Turn on the watch

  1. Locate the Home (Power) key. On Galaxy Watch3, Samsung calls it the Home (Power) key.
  2. Press and hold the key for a few seconds, then release it when the watch starts. Samsung gives this instruction for Watch3 in its device layout and basic functions guide.

If the screen stays black

Charge it with the correct dock

A depleted battery can leave the display black even when the watch is not faulty. Place the watch correctly on the wireless charging dock designed for its model. Samsung advises using approved accessories; its troubleshooting guidance recommends letting the watch charge for at least an hour. Actual charging time varies with the charger and the watch’s condition.

Dock compatibility is model-specific. Samsung distinguishes flat docks used by many Galaxy Watch models from the older dock used for Galaxy Watch, Gear S3, and Gear Sport. Its flat-dock compatibility list includes Galaxy Watch Active, Active2, Watch3, Watch4, Watch5, Watch6, Watch7, Watch Ultra, and Watch8 series. The current troubleshooting page also lists dedicated charger part numbers for newer families. Check the exact model and your local Samsung support page before buying a replacement.

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Wireless Power Sharing is another model-limited option, not a universal substitute for a dock. Samsung’s US charging guidance lists Watch6 series, Watch5, Watch5 Pro, Watch4, Watch3, Active, Active2, Gear S3, and Gear Sport as compatible with the feature. It says Watch7, Watch Ultra, and Watch8 series are not compatible. You also need a compatible Galaxy phone.

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  • A PERSONAL ASSISTANT, RIGHT ON YOUR WRIST: Your Watch just became your personal assistant.⁴ Stay one step ahead of your day with a watch that helps you navigate your tasks and to-do lists.

Force-restart the watch

If charging does not restore the display or response, force-restart it using the two-button combination. Samsung’s Galaxy Watch restart guidance says to press and hold the Home (Power) key and Back key simultaneously for at least seven seconds, until the screen goes dark. Release the buttons when the restart indication appears. Samsung says this forced reboot does not erase personal data.

When to contact Samsung

Contact Samsung support or arrange service if the watch remains unresponsive after charging and a force restart. Do the same if the dock appears damaged, a button is stuck, or the watch has visible damage or has been exposed to water. These signs call for inspection rather than repeated button presses or an assumption that the battery is the only problem.

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Samsung Galaxy Watch9, Graphite, 40mm Bluetooth Smartwatch
  • TRACK HEALTH PATTERNS¹ IN YOUR SLEEP WITH VITALS²: Stay aware of the subtle changes in your body with Vitals¹–it tracks health metrics while you sleep, catches shifts from your usual patterns, and provides tailored guidance based on the insights.²
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Choosing a replacement charger

If the original dock is missing or faulty, verify the replacement against the exact watch model before ordering. Compare:

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  • Watch model and generation.
  • Dock type or Samsung part number.
  • Whether a wall adapter is included.
  • Whether the seller explicitly identifies compatibility with your model.

Do not assume a generic Qi pad or phone Wireless Power Sharing will work with every Galaxy Watch. Samsung says replacement chargers are available through Samsung; check its local support or store listing for current options.

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SAMSUNG Galaxy FIT 3 [2024] 1.6" AMOLED Display | 14 Days Battery Life | 100+ Watchfaces | 100+ Exercise Modes | International Model - (Gray)
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Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic 46mm Bluetooth Smartwatch, Cushion Design, Rotating Bezel, Quick Button, Sleep Coaching, Running Coach, Energy Score, Black [US Version, Amazon Exclusive 2Yr Warranty]
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Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 40mm Bluetooth Smartwatch, Cushion Design, Quick Button, Sleep Coaching, Now Bar, Running Coach, Energy Score, Silver [US Version, Amazon Exclusive 2Yr Warranty]
  • WHY GALAXY WATCH8: Advanced health and sleep tracking features.* A lighter, more snug design for all day comfort.* Improved user interface.* Personal AI assistant for hands free help.⁴* 2-Year Warranty.
  • SLEEP SMARTER. LIVE BETTER: Energize your days with a great night’s rest using Advanced Sleep Coaching¹ - improved with even more ways to keep your nights on track. Plus, Bedtime Guidance² helps you find your optimal bedtime.
  • YOUR RUN, YOUR COACH: Step up your running routine with a Running Coach³ that analyzes your performance and gives you real-time feedback. Training for an event? Try specific programs built for 5Ks, marathons and more.
  • NEW DESIGN. LIGHTWEIGHT FEEL: Maximize your days with a minimalist design. The sleek, thinner-than-ever silhouette makes Galaxy Watch8 look as good as it functions. With a snug fit and sporty style, it gives you readings without getting in your way.
  • A PERSONAL ASSISTANT, RIGHT ON YOUR WRIST: Your Watch just became your personal assistant.⁴ Stay one step ahead of your day with a watch that helps you navigate your tasks and to-do lists.

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