Why Disable Automatic Updates?
By default, the Apple Watch is designed to be a maintenance-free device. If there is a new version of watchOS available, the watch will automatically download the massive update file over Wi-Fi and attempt to install it overnight while it is sitting on its charger. While this ensures you always have the latest security patches, it can also be incredibly disruptive. Major watchOS updates can sometimes introduce severe battery drain bugs or completely alter the user interface (like when Apple drastically changed how the side button functioned). If you prefer to wait a few weeks to ensure an update is stable before installing it, you must disable the automated system.
How to Turn Off Auto-Updates via the iPhone
The easiest way to manage your Apple Watch software is by using the dedicated Watch app on your paired iPhone, rather than navigating the tiny screen on your wrist.
- Open the Watch app on your iPhone.
- Ensure you are on the My Watch tab at the bottom left of the screen.
- Scroll down slightly and tap on General.
- Tap on Software Update.
- At the top of the screen, tap on Automatic Updates.
- You will see two distinct toggle switches. Turn Off the switch labeled Automatically Download.
- Turn Off the switch labeled Automatically Install.
Managing Updates Manually
With both of these switches disabled, your Apple Watch will no longer secretly download gigabytes of data in the background, nor will it attempt to reboot itself overnight. When Apple releases a new version of watchOS, you will simply receive a small notification badge. You can then navigate back to this exact same Software Update menu on your own schedule, read the release notes to confirm there are no catastrophic battery bugs, and manually initiate the download and installation process when it is convenient for you.