Apple today released watchOS 7.3.1 with a fix for an issue that can cause the Apple Watch Series 5 and SE not to charge after entering Power Reserve mode.
In a support document, Apple outlines the issue, which affected "a very small number of customers." Apple says that these people saw a problem with charging after the Apple Watch went into Power Reserve mode.
While watchOS 7.3.1 will fix the issue for customers who haven't previously experienced it, those who already had the problem may need to get support from Apple. Apple says to check if an Apple Watch is affected by the bug, users should place the watch on a charger and then wait for at least 30 minutes.
If the Apple Watch won't charge after the 30 minute time period, customers should contact Apple Support to set up a mail-in repair, which will be done free of charge by Apple.
Top Rated Comments
If this was a program being offered for 2-3 year old units, then we can talk.
I’d say they are hit and miss when it comes to acknowledging problematic issues. It seems like whenever it points in the direction of a design flaw they go to great lengths to subdue the issue. Maybe that’s because they sell so many units that the number of repairs/swaps they would have to make would cost a lot. That‘s just a bit of a dick move for a company that prides themselves on great design AND is the richest company in the world.
All said the above update mentioned in the article might explain why I had a Series 5 watch die on my during Xmas. Happy they exchanged mine for free and can fix it via software!