How to update Apple Watch automatically or manually

Like the iPhone, the Apple Watch receives software updates that include everything from bug fixes to new features. This article is about how to update Apple Watch automatically or manually. Your Apple Watch will let you know when new updates are available through notifications, but you can also manually check and update your watch using the latest apps.

Here’s how to update your Apple Watch automatically or manually, and what to do if you’re having trouble.

How to update Apple Watch automatically

Make sure you enable automatic App Install on iPhone

or on Apple Watch

If you get an update notification on your Apple Watch, tap “Install Tonight“, and schedule this event on your iPhone.

To make sure the update is complete, leave the Apple Watch and iPhone charging near each other overnight.

Make sure both are connected to Wi-Fi.

How to update your Apple Watch Manually from iphone or Apple watch

Before anything else, make sure your iPhone has the latest software update and is connected to your watch over Wi-Fi.

1.Place your Apple Watch on its charger and keep it there until the update is complete.

2. Open the Watch app on your iPhone and go to the “My Watch” tab or on Settings on the Apple Watch

Apple watch Settings

iPhone’s Watch App

3. From to the My Watch tab go to your iPhone’s General .

(on Apple Watch, from settings go to General)

4. Tap “General” and click “Software Update“. If an update is available, you’ll see a red number next to Software Update.

If no updates are available, the text “Your software is up to date” will be displayed and nothing else is required.

5. Tap Software Update and your phone will check for updates.

Download updates if available.

You may be asked for your iPhone or Apple Watch passcode, enter it.

6. A progress wheel will appear on the screen.

Keep your Apple Watch and charger close to your iPhone as the update continues.

Restart your iPhone or Apple Watch, or quit the Watch app during the update.

Your Apple Watch will automatically restart when the update is complete.

How to fix Apple Watch that won’t update

First, make sure that the clock on your iPhone is not yet updated. WatchOS 6, the latest Apple Watch software, can only be installed on Apple Watch Series 1 or later, using iPhone 6s or later with iOS 13 or later installed.

If you are sure that your watch and iPhone are compatible and recent to update, you can test the Apple Watch problem by doing the following:

Make sure your Apple Watch is connected to a charger and charging.

Restart your Apple Watch.

Restart the iPhone connected to your Apple Watch by pressing and holding the sleep/wake button until the “slide to power” bar appears. Drag the power button to the slider. Turn off your iPhone by holding down the sleep/wake button.