Downloading the latest Apple Watch update is your ticket to a better smartwatch experience, with each watchOS version bringing exciting new features.
The latest Apple Watch software is watchOS 11, released alongside the Apple Watch Series 10 September 2024. Apple also regularly releases smaller updates that fix bugs, add new complications, and drop exclusive watch faces.
To receive all the latest feature drops, you’ll need to know how to install new Apple Watch software is essential to receive all the latest feature drops.
Below, we’ve compiled the requirements you’ll need to meet to download the latest watchOS update, as well as some troubleshooting tips for those having issues.
- Master your Apple Watch with these tips and tricks
- How to reset the Apple Watch
- Restart the Apple Watch
What is the latest Apple Watch software?
The latest Apple Watch software version is watchOS 11, released in September 2024.Â
As with each new software version, watchOS 11 represents a significant upgrade for all Apple smartwatch users. We have a dedicated guide detailing the 11 most interesting new features of wacthOS 11, but we’ve summarized them below:
- Vitals app
- Training load insights
- Check In feature
- Double Tap third-party integrations
- Ability to pause Activity Rings
- AI Photos watch face
- Turn-by-turn instructions for hikers
- A smarter Smart Stack
- More detail in pregnancy tracking
- Tidal app
- Fitness and Workout customization
Latest Apple Watch update requirements
The latest version of Apple Watch software – watchOS 11 – isn’t available for every device, so check the list below before you attempt an install.
Apple Watch models that can download watchOS 11:
- Apple Watch Series 6 or newer
- Apple Watch SE 2
- Apple Watch Ultra or Ultra 2
Other things to check
- You have an iPhone XS, iPhone SE (2nd generation) or newer running the latest version of iOS 18 or later. To check, head to Settings > General > Software Update
- The Apple Watch is sitting on the charger and is at least 50% charged
- iPhone is connected to Wi-Fi
- iPhone and Apple Watch are close to each other
How to update the Apple Watch
In truth, you shouldn’t need to look too hard to kickstart an Apple Watch update manually.
When a new one is available, your device will notify you, and from there you’ll be able to select ‘Tap Update Tonight’ within the notification – again, similar to your iPhone.
If both devices are on charge, the update will occur automatically.Â
Below, we’ll cover how to update the Apple Watch with or without your iPhone being present.
Apple Watch update with iPhone
1. Open up the Watch app on the iPhone, then tap the My Watch tab.
2. Tap through to ‘General’, then ‘Software Update’.
3. Enter your passcode (if you have one) and download the update.
4. Wait for the progress wheel to complete on your Apple Watch.
5. Keep the Apple Watch on the charger until the update is finished. Depending on the update’s size and your internet speed, this could take anywhere from a few minutes to an hour, so be patient.
Apple Watch update without iPhone
If your Apple Watch is running watchOS 6 or later, can use these steps to download it without the iPhone:
1. Ensure your Apple Watch is connected to Wi-Fi.
2. Find the Apple Watch’s Settings app.
3. Tap ‘General’, then navigate to ‘Software Update’.
4. If an update is available, tap ‘Install’ and follow the instructions.
Apple Watch won’t update? Try these steps
As we mentioned, the Apple Watch sometimes won’t play ball when it comes to updating.
And while you should generally obey Apple’s warnings regarding restarting your iPhone or Apple Watch during updates, sometimes your device will be stuck for hours in the same spot and needs rescuing.
If the update won’t download, or it’s having trouble porting over to the Apple Watch, try the following:
- Restart the Apple Watch by holding the side button until the power icon appears in the top-right corner. To turn it on again, press and hold the side button.
- Restart your paired iPhone. Hold the Sleep/Wake button until the red slider appears, then drag it. To turn your iPhone on again, reverse the step.
- From there, try to start the update again.
- If it doesn’t work, open the Watch app on the iPhone, head over to General > Usage > Software Update, and then delete the update file. Then, try to download and install the latest version of watchOS again.
The post How to update the Apple Watch: Get watchOS 11 and overcome problems appeared first on Wareable.
