What to Know

Learn how to download and install Apple's September 2024 software update.
We've seen some changes in watchOS 11, including the Smart Stack widgets and security Check Ins.
In order to use watchOS 11 on your Apple Watch, you will need to install iOS 18 on your iPhone.

Here's how to update your Apple Watch; we’ll cover which Apple Watches are compatible with watchOS 11 and how to get the watchOS 11 download so you can take advantage of the new Apple Watch update!

How to Update an Apple Watch to watchOS 11 (2024)

The latest Apple Watch update brings exciting new features to your watch and helps improve existing software and fix known bugs. Here's how to update your Apple Watch to watchOS 11! Be sure to check out our free Tip of the Day for more great Apple Watch tutorials.

What You Need for the watchOS 11 Update & Compatibility

System Requirements

Note that not all watchOS 11 features are available on all devices. watchOS 11 requires an iPhone XS, iPhone XR, iPhone SE (2nd generation) or later with iOS 18 and one of the following Apple Watch models:

Apple Watch SE (2nd generation)
Apple Watch Series 6
Apple Watch Series 7
Apple Watch Series 8
Apple Watch Series 9
Apple Watch Ultra
Apple Watch Ultra 2

A lot of people in our Facebook group ask, "Why is my Apple Watch update so slow?" Please keep in mind that it's normal for an Apple Watch software update to take up to an hour, so make sure to update when you don't need to use your watch; overnight is ideal. Also, there may be background tasks running even after the update is complete, and this may negatively impact your battery life for a few days after the watchOS update. You can expect software updates to fix bugs and even result in your Apple Watch being more accurate at recording active and total calories.

How to Update Your Apple Watch to watchOS 11 Using Your iPhone

If you don't see the update as available right away on September 2024, give it a day or two. By then, the software update should be rolled out to all users. Don’t forget to back up your Apple Watch by backing up the iPhone it's paired with before you update to Apple's latest operating system.

Be sure the iPhone paired to your Apple Watch is updated to iOS 18.
Your Apple Watch should be charged to at least 50 percent and kept on its charger.
Connect your iPhone to Wi-Fi.
Keep your Apple Watch next to your iPhone.
Open the Watch app on your iPhone.
Under the My Watch tab, tap General.
Next, tap Software Update.
Tap Download & Install or Install Now.
Download the update; enter your iPhone passcode and Apple Watch passcode if asked.
A progress wheel will appear on your Apple Watch; don't quit the Watch app or restart your Apple Watch or iPhone until the update completes.
Your Apple Watch will restart when the update is complete, and you'll get a notification on your iPhone screen that your Apple Watch is updated.

How to Update Your Apple Watch without an iPhone

If your Apple Watch is already updated to watchOS 6 or later, you don't need your iPhone to install watchOS 11 or future updates. All you need to do is:

Make sure your Apple Watch is connected to Wi-Fi.
Open the Settings app on your Apple Watch.
Tap General.
Next, tap Software Update.
Tap Install if you see that watchOS 11 is available.
Follow the on-screen instructions to install watchOS 11.

Welcome to watchOS 11! It may take a while for you to get used to all the new features. We'll keep publishing guides to help you navigate your updated Apple Watch.

FAQ:

Why is my Apple Watch not updating? There are several reasons your Apple Watch won't update; we'll show you how to fix the problem.
When should I upgrade my Apple Watch? You should update your Apple Watch every time Apple releases a new update. Keeping all your devices up to date helps prevent bugs, security breaches, and battery drain.
Do Apple watches need to be upgraded? You do not need to update your Apple Watch for it to function. However, it is best practice to keep your devices up to date. If you miss an update every now and then, that's really no problem. But do try to keep Apple devices updated at least once a year.