How to Fix It When an Apple Watch Is Not Charging

Check the Charger and Adapter

When your Apple Watch is not charging, the first thing you should do is check the charger and adapter. Sometimes, the issue lies with the power source rather than the watch itself. Here are a few steps to troubleshoot the charger and adapter:

Inspect the Charger: Start by examining the charger for any visible damage or signs of wear. Look for frayed cables, bent pins, or loose connections. If you notice any issues, it’s best to replace the charger.
Try a Different Outlet: Plug the charger into a different outlet to eliminate the possibility of a faulty power source. Sometimes, a simple change in the power outlet can solve the charging problem.
Use a Different Adapter: If you have access to another Apple Watch adapter, try using it with your charger. This will help determine whether the original adapter is the cause of the issue.
Check Compatibility: Ensure that you are using a charger and adapter that are compatible with your Apple Watch model. Using an incompatible charger can result in charging problems.

Once you have checked the charger and adapter, attempt to charge your Apple Watch again. If the issue persists, move on to the next troubleshooting step.

Inspect the Charging Cable

If your Apple Watch is still not charging, the next step is to inspect the charging cable. Over time, the cable can become damaged or worn out, which can affect its ability to charge the watch. Follow these steps to inspect the charging cable:

Check for Physical Damage: Examine the charging cable for any visible signs of damage, such as frayed wires, exposed inner cables, or bent connectors. If you notice any issues, it’s best to replace the cable.
Ensure Proper Connection: Make sure that the charging cable is securely connected to both the adapter and the Apple Watch. Sometimes, a loose connection can prevent the watch from charging properly.
Clean the Connector: Use a soft, lint-free cloth to gently clean the connector on the charging cable. Dust, lint, or debris can accumulate over time and hinder the charging process.
Try a Different Cable: If possible, try using a different charging cable with your Apple Watch. This will help determine whether the issue is with the cable itself or the watch.
Test the Cable with Another Device: Connect the cable to another compatible device, such as an iPhone or iPad, and see if it charges successfully. If the cable works fine with another device, then the issue may lie with the Apple Watch.

After inspecting the charging cable, reconnect it to the adapter and Apple Watch, and attempt to charge the watch again. If the problem persists, move on to the next troubleshooting step.

Clean the Charging Port

If your Apple Watch is not charging, it is possible that the charging port could be obstructed or dirty. Dust, lint, or debris can accumulate in the charging port over time, preventing a proper connection between the charger and the watch. Follow these steps to clean the charging port:

Power Off the Apple Watch: Before cleaning the charging port, power off your Apple Watch to avoid any potential damage.
Inspect the Charging Port: Use a flashlight or magnifying glass to get a clear view of the charging port. Look for any visible signs of obstruction, such as dust, lint, or debris.
Clean the Charging Port: Gently remove any visible debris from the charging port using a clean, soft-bristled brush or a toothpick. Be careful not to damage the charging port or push any debris further inside.
Blow Compressed Air: If there is persistent dust or debris lodged in the charging port, you can use a can of compressed air to blow it out. Hold the can upright and use short bursts to avoid applying too much force.
Verify the Port is Dry: Ensure that the charging port is completely dry before attempting to charge your Apple Watch again. Moisture can interfere with the charging process and potentially damage the device.

After cleaning the charging port, reconnect the charger to the Apple Watch and plug it into a power source. Power on your Apple Watch and check if it is charging. If the problem persists, move on to the next troubleshooting step.

Restart the Apple Watch

When your Apple Watch is not charging, one simple solution to try is to restart the device. Restarting can help resolve software glitches or temporary issues that may be causing the charging problem. Follow these steps to restart your Apple Watch:

Press and Hold the Side Button: Locate the side button on your Apple Watch, which is located below the Digital Crown. Press and hold this button until the power off screen appears.
Slide to Power Off: On the power off screen, swipe the “Power Off” slider to the right to shut down your Apple Watch.
Wait for a Few Seconds: After your Apple Watch has powered off, wait for a few seconds before proceeding to the next step.
Press and Hold the Side Button Again: Press and hold the side button again until you see the Apple logo on the screen. This indicates that your Apple Watch is powering back on.
Release the Side Button: Once the Apple logo appears, release the side button and wait for your Apple Watch to restart.

After the restart is complete, reconnect the charging cable to the Apple Watch and plug it into a power source. Check if the Apple Watch is now charging. If the issue persists, move on to the next troubleshooting step.

Force Restart the Apple Watch

If restarting your Apple Watch did not resolve the charging issue, you can try a force restart. This more aggressive restart can help clear any stubborn software glitches that may be affecting the charging functionality. Follow these steps to force restart your Apple Watch:

Press and Hold the Side Button and Digital Crown: Simultaneously press and hold both the side button and the digital crown on your Apple Watch. Hold them for about 10 seconds.
Release the Buttons: After 10 seconds, release both the side button and the digital crown simultaneously.
Wait for the Apple Logo: The screen may go black momentarily, but soon the Apple logo should appear, indicating that your Apple Watch is restarting.
Reconnect the Charging Cable: After the restart is complete, connect the charging cable to your Apple Watch and plug it into a power source to check if it is now charging.

If the force restart did not resolve the charging issue, proceed to the next troubleshooting step.

Update the Apple Watch Software

If your Apple Watch is not charging, it could be due to outdated software. Software updates often include bug fixes and performance improvements that can address charging-related issues. Here’s how you can update the software on your Apple Watch:

Ensure iPhone Compatibility: Make sure that your iPhone is running on the latest version of iOS, as the Apple Watch software updates are initiated through the iPhone.
Connect iPhone to Wi-Fi: Connect your iPhone to a stable Wi-Fi network to ensure a secure and uninterrupted software update process.
Place Apple Watch on Charger: Make sure that your Apple Watch is placed on the charger and is connected to a power source. It needs sufficient battery level to complete the software update.
Open the Watch App: On your iPhone, open the “Watch” app, which is used to manage and customize your Apple Watch.
Navigate to Software Update: Tap on the “My Watch” tab at the bottom of the screen, then go to “General” > “Software Update.”
Check for Updates: If an update is available, you’ll see a notification about it. Tap “Download and Install” to start the software update process.
Follow the On-Screen Instructions: Follow the prompts and instructions on your iPhone and Apple Watch to download and install the software update. This process may take some time, so make sure your devices have enough charge and are connected to Wi-Fi throughout the update.
Restart and Check the Charging: Once the software update is complete, restart your Apple Watch, reconnect the charging cable, and check if your watch is now charging properly.

If updating the software did not fix the charging issue, continue to the next troubleshooting step.

Reset Network Settings

If your Apple Watch is still not charging, it’s worth considering a reset of the network settings. Network-related settings and configurations can sometimes interfere with the charging process. Here’s how you can reset the network settings on your Apple Watch:

Open the Settings App: On your Apple Watch, locate and open the “Settings” app. It can be identified by the gear icon.
Scroll Down and Tap on “General”: Within the settings menu, scroll down and tap on “General” to proceed to the general settings options.
Select “Reset”: Within the general settings, locate and select the “Reset” option. It’s usually at the bottom of the list.
Choose “Reset Network Settings”: In the reset options menu, look for the “Reset Network Settings” option and tap on it. Confirm your selection if prompted.
Enter Passcode if Required: If prompted, enter your passcode to proceed with the network settings reset.
Restart and Reconnect: After the network settings reset is completed, restart your Apple Watch and reconnect it to your Wi-Fi network, if necessary. Then, reconnect the charging cable and check if your Apple Watch is charging properly.

If resetting the network settings did not resolve the charging issue, there are a few more troubleshooting steps to try before seeking further assistance.

Disable Power Reserve Mode

If your Apple Watch is not charging, it’s essential to check if it is in Power Reserve mode. Power Reserve mode is a feature that allows your Apple Watch to conserve battery life by disabling most functions and only displaying the time. However, it also prevents the watch from charging. Here’s how you can disable Power Reserve mode:

Check Power Reserve Mode Status: Press and hold the side button on your Apple Watch until the screen turns on. If the screen only displays the time and a small lightning bolt symbol, it means your watch is in Power Reserve mode.
Exit Power Reserve Mode:
- If your Apple Watch has sufficient battery charge left, press and hold the side button on your watch until the Apple logo appears. Your watch will exit Power Reserve mode and return to normal functionality.
- If your Apple Watch is low on battery, connect it to the charger. After a few moments, it should automatically exit Power Reserve mode when it reaches a charge level that allows normal operation.
Charge Your Apple Watch: Once you have exited Power Reserve mode, ensure that your Apple Watch is connected to the charger and plugged into a power source. Check if it starts charging properly.

If disabling Power Reserve mode did not resolve the charging issue, there are a few more troubleshooting steps to explore before contacting Apple support.

Restore the Apple Watch to Factory Settings

If all previous troubleshooting steps have failed to resolve the charging issue with your Apple Watch, restoring it to factory settings may be the next step to consider. This process erases all data from your watch and returns it to its original settings. Here’s how you can restore your Apple Watch to factory settings:

Open the Settings App: On your Apple Watch, locate and open the “Settings” app. It can be identified by the gear icon.
Scroll Down and Tap on “General”: Within the settings menu, scroll down and tap on “General” to access the general settings options.
Select “Reset”: Within the general settings, locate and select the “Reset” option. It’s usually at the bottom of the list.
Choose “Erase All Content and Settings”: In the reset options menu, look for the “Erase All Content and Settings” option and tap on it. Confirm your selection if prompted.
Enter Passcode if Required: If prompted, enter your passcode to initiate the factory reset process.
Follow On-Screen Prompts: On the confirmation screen, carefully read the information provided and make sure you understand that all data will be erased. If you still want to proceed, follow the prompts to confirm and begin the restoration process.
Set Up Apple Watch as New or Restore from Backup: After the factory reset is complete, follow the on-screen instructions to set up your Apple Watch as new or restore from a previous backup using your iPhone.

Once you have completed the factory reset and set up your Apple Watch, reconnect the charging cable and check if it is charging properly. If the issue still persists, it is advisable to contact Apple Support for further assistance.

Contact Apple Support

If you have gone through all the troubleshooting steps and your Apple Watch is still not charging, it may be time to reach out to Apple Support for assistance. Apple Support can provide expert guidance and solutions specific to your situation. Here’s how you can contact Apple Support:

Visit the Apple Support Website: Go to the official Apple Support website at support.apple.com using your web browser.
Select Your Apple Watch Model: Navigate to the Apple Watch section and select your specific model.
Browse Troubleshooting Articles: Apple Support offers a range of troubleshooting articles and guides related to Apple Watch issues. Search for articles that specifically address charging problems.
Contact Apple Support: If the troubleshooting articles do not resolve your issue, you can contact Apple Support directly. Depending on your location, you may have the option to chat with a support representative, schedule a call, or book an appointment at an Apple Store.
Provide Details and Seek Assistance: When contacting Apple Support, ensure that you provide detailed information about the steps you have already taken and the specific issue you are facing with your Apple Watch not charging. This will help the support representative better understand your situation and provide appropriate solutions.

Apple Support is committed to assisting their customers and finding resolutions to technical issues. Their expertise and resources can help ensure a prompt and effective solution for your Apple Watch charging problem.