Keeping your Apple Watch up to date ensures it has the latest features, bug fixes, and security improvements. You can update your Apple Watch either through your iPhone or directly on the watch itself.
Check Apple Watch Compatibility
Before starting, make sure your watch supports the newest version. watchOS 11 works with:
- Apple Watch SE (2nd generation)
- Apple Watch Series 6 and later
- Apple Watch Ultra and later
Not all watchOS 11 features are available on every device. You’ll also need an iPhone XS or later running iOS 18. If your watch isn’t compatible, Software Update will show the most recent version it can run.
Get Ready to Update
Before you begin, check these essentials:
- Update your iPhone to the latest iOS version.
- Charge your Apple Watch to at least 50%.
- Connect your iPhone to Wi-Fi.
- Keep your iPhone close to your Apple Watch during the update.
Because the process can take several minutes to an hour, it’s best to start when you have enough time—or let it run overnight.
Update Your Apple Watch Using Your iPhone
Automatically:
When your Apple Watch notifies you about a new update, tap Update Tonight. Then confirm on your iPhone. Leave both devices charging overnight so the update can finish.
Manually:
- On your iPhone, open the Apple Watch app.
- Tap My Watch → General → Software Update.
- Download the update and enter any passcodes if prompted.
- Wait for the progress wheel to appear on your Apple Watch.
- Keep the watch on its charger until the update finishes.
Avoid restarting your devices or closing the Apple Watch app during the update. The watch will restart automatically when complete.
Update Directly on Your Apple Watch
If your watch has watchOS 6 or later:
- Connect your watch to Wi-Fi.
- Open Settings → General → Software Update.
- Tap Install if an update is available, then follow the onscreen steps.
Keep the watch charging and avoid restarting it until the process finishes.
When iPhone Updates Require a Watch Update
Some iOS updates on your iPhone also require a watchOS update. If you see an alert that says “Update Apple Watch” and “Your Apple Watch software is out of date,” update your watch so that data like Activity syncs correctly.
Troubleshooting Apple Watch Updates
If you can’t update your watch, try these steps:
- Make sure your watch is connected to its charger.
- Restart both your Apple Watch and iPhone.
- Try the update again.
If it still doesn’t start:
- On your iPhone, open the Apple Watch app.
- Tap General → Storage.
- Delete the update file and retry.
If you see “Cannot Install Update” or need more storage, follow Apple’s official guidance for freeing up space.
Removing Beta Profiles Before Updating
If you previously installed beta or developer software:
- On your iPhone, open the Apple Watch app → My Watch → General → Profiles. Delete the beta profile.
- On your iPhone, go to Settings → General → Profiles & Device Management. Delete the beta profile here as well.
- Restart both devices and check for the update again.
