Apple Watch updates are designed to bring new features, improvements, and security patches to enhance user experience. However, a common issue users encounter is the update getting stuck on the “Preparing” screen. If you’re facing this problem in 2024, don’t worry; you’re not alone. This guide will walk you through various troubleshooting steps to resolve the issue of your Apple Watch update stuck on preparing.
Understanding the Issue: Apple Watch Update Stuck on Preparing
When your Apple Watch update is stuck on preparing, it can be frustrating. This phase is where the watch gets the update ready to install, but sometimes, it can take longer than expected or halt altogether. There are several reasons why your Apple Watch update might be stuck on preparing, including network issues, insufficient storage, or software glitches.
Initial Checks Before Troubleshooting
Before diving into complex troubleshooting steps, it’s essential to ensure that the basics are covered. Here’s what you should check if your Apple Watch update is stuck on preparing:
- Stable Internet Connection: Ensure that your iPhone, which pairs with your Apple Watch, is connected to a stable Wi-Fi network.
- Sufficient Battery Life: Both your Apple Watch and iPhone should have sufficient battery life (preferably above 50%).
- Adequate Storage Space: Check if there is enough storage space on both your iPhone and Apple Watch for the update.
Restart Your Devices
One of the simplest yet often effective methods to resolve the issue of an Apple Watch update stuck on preparing is to restart both your iPhone and Apple Watch. Restarting can clear minor software glitches and refresh the connection between the devices.
- Restart iPhone: Press and hold the power button until the slider appears. Drag the slider to turn off your iPhone. After the device turns off, press and hold the power button again to turn it back on.
- Restart Apple Watch: Press and hold the side button until the power off slider appears. Drag the slider to turn off the watch. To turn it back on, press and hold the side button until the Apple logo appears.
Reconnect Apple Watch and iPhone
If your Apple Watch update is stuck on preparing, it might be due to a connectivity issue between the watch and the phone. Re-pairing the devices can often resolve this problem.
- Unpair Apple Watch: Open the Watch app on your iPhone, go to “All Watches,” tap the info button next to your watch, and select “Unpair Apple Watch.”
- Pair Apple Watch Again: Follow the on-screen instructions to pair your Apple Watch with your iPhone again. Once paired, try updating your Apple Watch to see if the issue is resolved.
Free Up Storage Space
Insufficient storage space can cause your Apple Watch update to get stuck on preparing. Check the storage on both your Apple Watch and iPhone and delete unnecessary apps, photos, or files to free up space.
- Check iPhone Storage: Go to Settings > General > iPhone Storage. Here, you can see how much space is used and what apps are taking up the most space.
- Check Apple Watch Storage: Open the Watch app on your iPhone, go to General > Usage, and review the storage usage on your watch. Delete unnecessary apps or files if needed.
Update iPhone and Watch Apps
Outdated apps on your iPhone or Apple Watch can sometimes interfere with the update process. Ensure that all apps on both devices are updated to their latest versions.
- Update iPhone Apps: Open the App Store, go to the “Updates” tab, and update any pending apps.
- Update Apple Watch Apps: Open the Watch app on your iPhone, go to “App Store,” and update any pending apps for your Apple Watch.
Reset Network Settings
Network issues can also cause your Apple Watch update to get stuck on preparing. Resetting your iPhone’s network settings can help resolve this issue.
- Reset Network Settings on iPhone: Go to Settings > General > Reset > Reset Network Settings. This will reset your Wi-Fi networks, passwords, and cellular settings. After resetting, reconnect to your Wi-Fi network and try the update again.
Use the Latest Software Version
Ensure that your iPhone is running the latest version of iOS. Sometimes, updates for the Apple Watch require the latest iOS version on your iPhone to proceed smoothly.
- Update iPhone Software: Go to Settings > General > Software Update and install any available updates. After updating your iPhone, try updating your Apple Watch again.
Hard Reset Apple Watch
If your Apple Watch update is still stuck on preparing, a hard reset might be necessary. This will not delete any data but can help clear stubborn software issues.
- Hard Reset Apple Watch: Press and hold both the side button and the Digital Crown simultaneously for at least 10 seconds, until you see the Apple logo. Release both buttons and let the watch restart. Try the update again after the reset.
Contact Apple Support
If none of the above steps resolve the issue of your Apple Watch update being stuck on preparing, it might be time to contact Apple Support. There could be a more complex issue at hand that requires professional assistance.
- Apple Support: Visit the Apple Support website or use the Apple Support app to schedule an appointment or get in touch with a support representative.
Preventing Future Update Issues
To prevent future occurrences of your Apple Watch update getting stuck on preparing, consider the following tips:
- Regular Updates: Regularly update both your iPhone and Apple Watch to the latest software versions to benefit from improvements and bug fixes.
- Maintain Storage: Keep an eye on the storage space on both devices and regularly delete unnecessary files and apps.
- Stable Network: Ensure that you have a stable and strong Wi-Fi connection during updates to avoid interruptions.
Conclusion
An Apple Watch update stuck on preparation can be a frustrating experience, but with these troubleshooting steps, you can resolve the issue and enjoy the latest features and improvements. Whether it’s restarting your devices, freeing up storage, or contacting Apple Support, there are various solutions to get your update back on track. Remember to keep your devices updated regularly and maintain a stable network connection to prevent future issues. By following these guidelines, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free update process for your Apple Watch in 2024.
