Apple Watch Series 5, SE Not Charging Fix Released; Free Repairs Also Available

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Apple released watchOS 7.3.1 (18S811) on a quiet holiday Monday, to address a charging issue for Apple Watch Series 5 and SE owners.

“A very small number of customers with Apple Watch Series 5 or Apple Watch SE models running watchOS 7.2 or 7.3 have experienced an issue with their watch not charging after it enters Power Reserve,” explains Apple.

“To check if your Apple Watch is affected by this issue, place your watch on the charger that you normally use, then wait at least 30 minutes,” says Apple.

Besides the update, Apple says if watchOS 7.3.1 does not fix the issue, the company will “set up a mail-in repair free of charge,” details a new support document (via MacRumors).

“Your watch will be examined before service to verify that it’s eligible for free repair,” adds Apple.

To update your Apple Watch Series 5 or Apple Watch SE, on your watch, open the Settings app. Then, tap General > Software Update. If a software update is available, you can install it by following the instructions (your watch will need to be connected to Wi-Fi).

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