Apple released watchOS 7.3.1 on Monday, and may help fix an issue that prevents some Apple Watch Series 5 or SE smartwatches from charging during battery-saving power reserve mode. But even updating the software may not solve the problem, according to Apple. Otherwise, the company will repair your watch for free.
“A very small number of customers with Apple Watch Series 5 or Apple Watch SE models running watchOS 7.2 or 7.3 had a problem with the watch that they did not charge after entering the power reserve,” said Apple in a support document. If your Apple Watch still doesn’t charge after installing the update and after placing it in the charger for at least 30 minutes, the company asks you to contact Apple support to set up a free repair by mail. The company will have to inspect your watch to “check that it qualifies for free repair”.
The watchOS 7.3.1 update is available for download now.