Apple Watch users have been complaining about a battery drain issue that affects multiple models after updating to watchOS 10.1. The problem causes the battery to run out much faster than normal, sometimes in just a few hours. Apple has acknowledged the issue and said that a fix is coming soon in a future software update.
Contents
What is watchOS 10.1 and What Are Its Features?
watchOS 10.1 is the latest version of the operating system for the Apple Watch. It was released on October 25, 2023, and introduced several new features, such as:
- Double Tap: A gesture that lets you quickly switch between two apps on your Apple Watch by double-tapping the side button.
- New watch faces: A variety of new watch faces, including Modular Max, Contour, World Timer, and Portraits.
- New workouts: Pilates and Tai Chi are added to the Workout app, along with improved algorithms for tracking calories and heart rate.
- Fall detection: The Apple Watch can now detect if you fall and automatically call emergency services if you are unresponsive.
- Wallet: You can now add your driver’s license or state ID to the Wallet app on your iPhone and Apple Watch, and use it at participating airports and venues.
- Messages: You can now send GIFs and stickers from the Messages app on your Apple Watch, and use the Scribble feature to write text with your finger.
- Photos: You can now view and edit your photos on your Apple Watch, and use the Digital Crown to zoom in and out.
What is the Battery Drain Issue and How Does It Affect Apple Watch Users?
Some Apple Watch users have reported that their battery life has been significantly reduced after updating to watchOS 10.1. The issue seems to affect various models, including the new Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2, as well as older models like the Apple Watch 4.
The common symptom is that the battery drops from 100% to 0% in a matter of hours, even when the watch is not in use or has minimal activity. Some users have also noticed that their Apple Watch gets very hot while charging or wearing.
The battery drain issue can be very frustrating and inconvenient for Apple Watch users, as it limits the functionality and usability of their device. For example, users may not be able to track their workouts, receive notifications, use Apple Pay, or access other features that require battery power.
Moreover, the battery drain issue can also affect the health and safety of users, as it may prevent them from using fall detection, emergency SOS, or heart rate monitoring features that could save their lives in case of an emergency.
watchOS 10.1.1 should be coming soon with a fix for the excessive battery drain issue:
From yesterday: watchOS 10.1.1 should be coming soon with a fix for the excessive battery drain issue. Earlier I reported that Apple is also preparing iOS 17.1.1 for the iPhone, probably to address issues with Wi-Fi, BMW wireless charging, and iPhones shutting down overnight. https://t.co/bQCtooLrQm
— Joe Rossignol (@rsgnl) November 5, 2023
What is the Cause of the Battery Drain Issue and How Can It Be Fixed?
The exact cause of the battery drain issue is not clear, but it seems to be related to a bug in the watchOS 10.1 software. Apple has confirmed that there is a bug affecting battery life on multiple Apple Watch models and that it is working on a fix that will be released as part of a future software update.
Apple has not specified when the update will be available, but it will likely be included in the upcoming watchOS 10.1.1 or watchOS 10.2 updates. In the meantime, Apple Watch users who are experiencing the battery drain issue can try some of the following troubleshooting steps to mitigate the problem:
- Restart the Apple Watch by pressing and holding the side button and the Digital Crown until the Apple logo appears.
- Unpair and re-pair the Apple Watch with the iPhone by following the instructions on the Apple Support website.
- Turn off the Double Tap feature by going to Settings > General > Double Tap on the Apple Watch, or Watch > General > Double Tap on the iPhone.
- Turn off the Background App Refresh feature by going to Settings > General > Background App Refresh on the Apple Watch, or Watch > General > Background App Refresh on the iPhone.
- Turn on the Power Reserve mode by swiping up on the watch face and tapping the battery icon, or by pressing and holding the side button and sliding the Power Reserve slider.
- Contact Apple Support or visit an Apple Store or an Apple Authorized Service Provider for further assistance.
If you want to see newer articles, just click on the link below:
- Double Tap Gesture in watchOS 10.1 Beta: A New Way to Interact With Your Apple Watch
- Apple Plans to Release a Cheaper Version of Its Vision Pro
Conclusion
The watchOS 10.1 battery drain issue is a serious problem that affects many Apple Watch users and reduces the performance and functionality of their devices. Apple has acknowledged the issue and promised a fix in a future software update. Until then, users can try some of the suggested troubleshooting steps to improve their battery life. Hopefully, Apple will release the update soon and resolve the issue for good.
