Some Apple Watch models are no longer charging, leaving customers with a useless smart accessory, but you can get the problem fixed for free.
The tech giant said some customers with Apple Watch Series 5 or Apple Watch SE models running watchOS 7.2 or 7.3 have experienced an issue with their watch not charging after it enters Power Reserve mode.
To see which version of watchOS you have, open the Watch app on your iPhone, or the Settings app on your Apple Watch. Tap General, then About, then look for the version number.
To learn which Apple Watch you have, use its model number:
- Open the Apple Watch app on your iPhone.
- Tap the My Watch tab, then tap General > About.
- Find the Model field. You should see the part number that begins with "M."
- Tap the Model field. You should see the field update to show a five-digit number that begins with "A." This is your model number.
- Compare your model number to the ones here.
To check if your watch is affected by this issue, Apple recommends placing your watch on the charger that you normally use and then waiting at least 30 minutes.
If your Apple Watch still won't charge, you're asked to contact Apple Support to set up a mail-in repair free of charge.
Your watch will then be looked at before service to verify that it's eligible for free repair.
Apple has since released watchOS 7.3.1, which prevents this issue from happening to other Apple Watch Series 5 or Apple Watch SE devices.
