How to Configure Emergency SOS on Apple Watch
Learn how to configure Emergency SOS on your Apple Watch to ensure rapid access to emergency services and notify your designated contacts during a crisis.
- Open the Watch application on iPhone. Unlock your iPhone and locate the Watch application. Tap the app icon to open the main interface where you manage your connected hardware.
- Access Emergency SOS settings. Select the My Watch tab at the bottom of the screen. Scroll down the menu and tap on Emergency SOS to view the available activation options.
- Enable Hold Side Button to dial. Toggle the switch for Hold Side Button to the On position. When enabled, holding the side button will trigger a countdown before calling emergency services.
- Configure Emergency Contacts. Navigate to the Health app on your iPhone and tap your profile picture. Select Medical ID, then tap Edit to add emergency contacts who will be notified if you trigger an SOS event.
- Confirm Fallout settings. Ensure the Fall Detection feature is enabled within the Emergency SOS menu if you use a newer model. This allows the watch to automatically call for help if it detects a hard fall followed by a period of immobility.