Submitted by Fred Straker on
A limited number of Apple Watch units might not charge after entering Power Reserve mode. Power Reserve normally saves the last of the battery life remaining by shutting down all features except the time. Pressing the side button in Power Reserve displays the time and a red low battery icon. When the battery gets too low, the watch will automatically enter Power Reserve.
Normally, charging the watch while it's in Power Reserve brings back full functionality when the battery gains enough power. Some users of the Apple Watch SE and Apple Watch Series 5 have noticed their watch doesn't charge and gets stuck in Power Reserve. In some cases, the watch is bricked and completely unusable.
Update to WatchOS 7.3.1 or later
Everyone with an Apple Watch Series 5 or Apple Watch SE should immediately update watchOS. This will prevent the Power Reserve bug from happening on your device. If you are already experiencing the problem, the watch needs attention from Apple.
To confirm the version of watchOS currently installed on your device, launch Settings on Apple Watch and navigate to General -> About.
How to fix Apple Watch stuck in Power Reserve
First try leaving the Apple Watch on its normal charger for at least 30 minutes. If this doesn't work, you may be eligible for the Apple Watch free repair program.
Newest iPhone FAQs
Only a small number of Apple Watch SE and Apple Watch Series 5 units running watchOS 7.2 or watchOS 7.3 are affected by this problem. Contact Apple Support directly to start the process of repair. Apple Watch repairs must be sent for mail-in service at an Apple Repair Center.