Apple today released a new support document, pointing out that the official version of iOS 15.4 and watchOS 8.5 supports the use of the iPhone to restore the Apple Watch. The support document states that if an Apple Watch running watchOS 8.5 or later shows an animation of the Apple Watch and iPhone coming together, users can follow the steps below to initiate the recovery process.
- Make sure you have an iPhone nearby. iPhone needs to be running iOS 15.4 or later, needs to be connected to Wi-Fi with Bluetooth turned on, and needs to be unlocked.
- Put your Apple Watch on the charger.
- Double-tap the side button (the button below the round Digital Crown) on your Apple Watch.
- Follow the steps that appear on your iPhone.
If these steps don’t work, Apple advises users to check their Wi-Fi connection. Specifically, Apple says to try 2.4GHz networks instead of 5GHz and to avoid 802.1X or Captive Wi-Fi networks, such as those found in hotel rooms.
In an internal memo to Apple Stores and Apple Authorized Service Providers obtained by MacRumors, Apple said the feature allows users and technicians to restore watchOS on certain Apple Watch models without having to mail the device to an Apple repair center. The memo doesn’t say which Apple Watch models support the feature.
Apple’s support document says that users may see a red exclamation mark on their Apple Watch, and if this happens, Apple says to double-tap the button on the side and follow the steps above.
If the Apple Watch continues to display a red exclamation mark, users are advised to contact Apple Support to arrange for a mail-in repair. iOS 15.4 and watchOS 8.5 were released today alongside iPad OS 15.4, macOS 12.3, tvOS 15.4 and HomePod 15.4.