How to Fix Apple Watch Randomly Restarting After iPhone Update (2025 Guide)
Is your Apple Watch randomly restarting after a recent iPhone update? You’re not alone. Many users experience this issue, especially after installing major iOS updates like iOS 17 or iOS 18. Fortunately, there are reliable ways to fix it.
In this post, we’ll show you how to troubleshoot and fix your Apple Watch restart loop issue, step-by-step—whether you’re using an Apple Watch Series 6, 7, 8, Ultra, or SE.
Why Does My Apple Watch Keep Restarting?
If your Apple Watch restarts randomly, especially after updating your iPhone, the issue could be related to:
- Incompatible software versions (watchOS vs iOS)
- Corrupted Bluetooth pairing data
- App bugs or third-party complications
- Power management glitches or overheating
- Failed sync between iPhone and Apple Watch
Step-by-Step: How to Fix Apple Watch Random Restart Issue
Step 1: Check for a watchOS Update
After an iPhone update, your Apple Watch might also need a watchOS update to stay compatible.
- On your iPhone, open the Watch app
- Tap General → Software Update
- If an update is available, download and install it
📲 Keep your watch on the charger and connected to Wi-Fi during the update.
Step 2: Force Restart Your Apple Watch
Sometimes, a fresh reboot solves random restarts.
- Press and hold the Side Button + Digital Crown for at least 10 seconds
- Release when you see the Apple logo
This clears minor bugs and refreshes your device.
Step 3: Unpair and Re-pair Your Apple Watch
Unpairing resets the connection and often fixes software conflicts.
- Open the Watch app on your iPhone
- Tap All Watches > Tap the ⓘ next to your watch
- Choose Unpair Apple Watch
- Wait for the backup to complete
- Re-pair the watch using the on-screen instructions
🛑 Don’t skip the backup it will restore your settings after pairing again.
Step 4: Remove Problematic Apps or Complications
Some third-party apps or watch face complications might cause crashes.
- Switch to a simple watch face (like Numerals or Modular)
- Remove any third-party complications
- Delete suspicious apps via the Watch app or directly on the watch
Then monitor if the restarts stop.
Step 5: Check iPhone and Watch Compatibility
Make sure your devices are on compatible versions:
| iPhone iOS Version | Compatible watchOS |
|---|---|
| iOS 17 | watchOS 10 and later |
| iOS 18 | watchOS 11 and later (if supported) |
To avoid instability, always update both devices together.
Step 6: Reset Your Apple Watch (Last Resort)
If all else fails, reset your watch to factory settings:
- On the Watch, go to Settings → General → Reset
- Tap Erase All Content and Settings
- Re-pair and set up as new (avoid restoring from backup to rule out corrupted data)
⚠️ Use this only after trying all previous steps.
Bonus Tips to Prevent Apple Watch Restart Issues
- Avoid installing beta versions of iOS or watchOS unless you’re a developer
- Keep both your iPhone and Apple Watch fully charged during updates
- Turn off Background App Refresh for unused apps
- Monitor for overheating, especially after charging or workouts