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aika181
User level: Level 1 (4 points)

Apple watch SE 2022 won’t update

My Apple Watch (SE 2022, 40 mm) can no longer update, which means I can’t pair it with my new iPhone.


Every time I try to update it, I get a message saying that the update could not be completed because an unknown error occurred.


As far as I know, my Apple Watch should still be compatible with the latest watchOS 26.6 update.


My iPhone is right next to my Apple Watch, and both devices are charged to over 50%. My Apple Watch is also connected to its charger.


Has anyone experienced this issue before, or does anyone know how to fix it?


Any help would be greatly appreciated!

Posted on Oct 16, 2026 8:14 AM

3 replies

poonam_kumawat
User level: Level 4 (1,080 points)

Oct 16, 2026 9:47 AM in response to aika181

Try deleting the downloaded update file first; this often helps when an update repeatedly fails with an unknown error.

  1. On your iPhone, open the Watch app -> General -> Storage.
  2. If an update file appears, tap it and delete it.
  3. Restart both devices, connect your iPhone to reliable Wi-Fi, and try updating again.
  4. If it still fails, check the watch’s available storage and try updating again.


More info : Update your Apple Watch

Jccardona
User level: Level 1 (8 points)

Oct 18, 2026 3:23 AM in response to aika181

A mi me pasaba lo mismo. Lo que hice fue enlazarlo con mi iPhone 13 Pro anterio, importante no actualizar el iPhone 13 a IOS 27. Una vez enlazado desde el Apple Watch entré en almacenamiento y borre el archivo de WatchOs. Reinicie iPhone y reloj, desde el iPhone volví a instalar la actualización y todo ok. Luego desenlacé el reloj del iPhone 13 y lo enlacé con el iPhone 18 y todo funciona bien.

aika181 Author
User level: Level 1 (4 points)

Oct 18, 2026 3:03 AM in response to poonam_kumawat

Thank you for your response.


I can’t access the Apple Watch app because I’m always required to update my Apple Watch first. Therefore, I can’t go to the settings in the app to delete the update.


I have to complete the update before I can pair my Apple Watch with my iPhone and access the settings. However, the update keeps failing, so I’m stuck and can’t proceed.

Originally posted at discussions.apple.com/thread/256377322