To get the latest features and security enhancements on Apple Watch, you will need to update your Apple Watch to the latest WatchOS. If you have already seen a notification urging you to update your watch, or just want to check if you have any available updates, this guide will help with that.
Before we start, make sure you have updated your phone to the latest version of IOS and that the devices are connected to WIFI. Also, the watch needs to be charged at least 50% and should stay on the charger until the update is complete. During the updating process, it is important to keep both your iPhone and your watch next to each other until the WatchOS update is complete.
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How to Update your Apple Watch Software using your iPhone
Apple Watch users can upgrade to the latest WatchOS manually and automatically. Here is how;
To update automatically, use these steps;
1. If you receive an update notification on your Apple Watch, tap Update Tonight, then confirm this action on your iPhone.
2. To ensure the update is completed, leave both your Apple Watch and iPhone charging close to each other overnight. Make sure they’re also both connected to WiFi.
To update manually, use these steps:
1. Open the Apple Watch app on your iPhone.
2. On the home page of the app tap the My Watch tab.
3. Scroll down and tap General.
4. Select Software Update from the displayed options.
5. If no updates are available, you’ll see the text Your software is up to date, and no further action is required. Tap Install Now if there’s an update available. You may be asked for your iPhone or Apple Watch passcode here – enter it.
6. Wait for the progress wheel to appear on your Apple Watch. It could take from several minutes to an hour for the update to complete.
Quick Note: Leave your Apple Watch on its charger while the update completes. Don’t restart your iPhone or Apple Watch, and don’t quit the Apple Watch app. When the update completes, your Apple Watch restarts on its own.
How to Update Apple Watch Software on Apple Watch
1. Start the Settings app on your Apple Watch.
2. Select General from the displayed Settings menu.
3. Under General Settings tap Software Update.
4. Tap Install if a software update is available, then follow the onscreen instructions. If no updates are available, you’ll see the text Your software is up to date, and no further action is required.
Why won’t my Apple Watch update?
First of all, make sure that your Watch and iPhone aren’t too old to update. WatchOS 8, the newest Apple Watch software, can only be installed on an Apple Watch Series 3 or later, using an iPhone 6s or later with iOS 14 or later installed.
If you’re sure that your Watch and iPhone are compatible and new enough for the update, you can try to troubleshoot an Apple Watch with these steps:
1. Make sure your Apple Watch is connected to WiFi and to its charger.
2. Restart your Apple Watch
3. Restart the iPhone that’s paired with your Apple Watch by pressing and holding the Sleep/Wake button until the slide to power off bar appears. Drag the power button across the slider. Turn your iPhone on by holding the Sleep/Wake button.
4. Try updating your Apple Watch after following these steps.