Apple Watch Series 12 reports lower walking mileage despite similar steps

I am experiencing an issue with my Watch series 12 42mm I just upgraded to (from Series 10 42mm). The main issue is that although my daily total number of steps is the same or slightly above, my total walking mioleage is more than 20% lower. Going from around 13 miles to 10 miles or less. I have already unpaired and repaired my watch twice, and I just reset the calibration dta for the 4th time.

Is there anything else I can do? Is it possible this watch may have a fault, that I should replace it?

Thank you for your help.

Michael

Posted on Oct 2, 2026 11:10 AM

1 reply

poonam_kumawat

Level 4 (1,080 points)

Oct 4, 2026 10:13 AM in response to Michael_Reinders

A 20%+ difference is significant, especially with similar step counts.

Since you’ve already reset calibration, check Settings -> Privacy & Security -> Location Services ->System Services -> Motion Calibration & Distance and make sure it’s enabled.

Then do a 20-minute Outdoor Walk at your normal pace in an open area to recalibrate the Watch.

More Info: Apple calibration instructions