It’s essential to keep your Apple Watch updated with the latest software to ensure the watch runs smoothly and stays secure. Moreover, the latest watchOS 9 update introduces some great features like medication reminders, sleep stage tracking, etc., to enhance your lifestyle.
You can either update your Apple Watch from your iPhone or directly from the watch itself. We have also listed the steps to upgrade to the stable version of watchOS 9 for those running on watchOS 9 public or developer beta. Let’s begin and help you upgrade your Apple Watch to the latest software version.
Requirements to update watchOS 9
Before you begin the process of updating your Apple Watch, there are some things you should take note of and follow:
- Update your iPhone to the latest iOS version.
- Ensure at least 50% battery on both the iPhone and the Apple Watch.
- Connect your iPhone and Apple Watch to a Wi-Fi network.
- Keep your Apple Watch within the connection range of your iPhone to prevent disconnection.
How to update Apple Watch without iPhone
You do not need the connected iPhone to update your Apple Watch. Make sure you connect the Apple Watch to Wi-Fi and plug it in to charge. Once you’ve done both these things, proceed with the steps mentioned below:
- Open Settings on your Apple Watch.
- Tap General.
- Navigate to Software Update.
- If an update is available, tap Install.
- Tap Proceed.
- The Apple Watch will restart once the update is installed.
How to update Apple Watch with iPhone
You do not need the paired iPhone to update the Apple Watch. However, the paired iPhone will send you a notification whenever an update for the Apple Watch is available. If you intend to update through the iPhone, follow these steps:
- Open the Watch app on your iPhone.
- Make sure your iPhone and Apple Watch are connected to Wi-Fi.
- Tap General.
- Select Software Update.
- On the next page, tap Install Now.
- Enter your iPhone passcode.
- Read the terms and conditions. Once you’ve read the terms and wish to proceed, tap Agree.
- You might be asked to enter the Apple Watch passcode, after which the update process will begin.
- A progress wheel will appear on the Apple Watch. Plug the Apple Watch into a charger to prevent it from dying during the update process.
- Once the update is installed, the Apple Watch will restart and run the latest software version.
Note: While the update is in process, please do not restart your iPhone or Apple Watch.
How to upgrade from watchOS 9 beta to watchOS 9 stable public release
You need to delete the developer beta profile or the public beta profile to upgrade to the stable release of watchOS 9. Since profiles can only be deleted on iPhone, you will require the connected iPhone at hand. Here’s how you can upgrade from the beta build to the stable build of watchOS 9.
- Open the Watch app on your iPhone.
- Tap General.
- Tap Profiles.
- Select the watchOS Beta Profile.
- Tap Remove Profile.
- Confirm your choice.
- Your Apple Watch will restart. Once it does, follow the steps in the How to update Apple Watch with iPhone section to update to the stable build.
Once again, I’m reminding you not to restart your iPhone or Apple Watch and ensure both the devices are plugged in or have at least 50% battery before you proceed with any of the steps. Please head to your nearest Apple Store for support if something goes wrong.
Also, the battery life is expected to take a hit for a couple of days after the update. Worry not, as it will return to normal after a few days. If you have any other questions, leave them in the comments below, and we will get back to you.
Read more:
- Apple Watch too slow? 15 tips to speed up your Apple Watch
- How to use Dual SIM with Apple Watch GPS + Cellular models
- Apple Watch cellular not working? 10 Ways to fix it
- How to use Heart Rate Zone tracking on Apple Watch
Consumer Technology and Motorcycles are the two things that excite Darryl the most. Why? Because Tech helps better people's lives, and solving people's problems related to tech is something he enjoys. And what about bikes, you ask? Well, drop a gear and disappear.