How to stop Now Playing from launching on your Apple Watch
- Press the Digital Crown on your Apple Watch.
- Tap Settings on the list of apps or in the grid view.
- Tap General.
- Tap Wake Screen.
- Tap the switch next to Auto-Launch Audio Apps so it's in the gray "off" position.
How to stop Now Playing from launching on your Apple Watch using your iPhone
Of course, you can also turn off auto-launching audio apps using the Watch app on the iPhone paired with your Apple Watch.
- Open the Watch app on your iPhone.
- Tap General.
- Tap Wake Screen.
- Tap the switch next to Auto-Launch Audio Apps so it's in the black "off" position.