This is often seen after a recent iOS update or when you start using a new iPhone. Other possible reasons include Focus modes being set up incorrectly, battery-saving settings being turned on, or issues with Wi-Fi calling. In this article, we will discuss different ways to solve this error.
Troubleshooting Prerequisites
If you use an extender link on your watch’s strap, remove it and check if the problem goes away.Ensure both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi are enabled on your iPhone.
1. Enable and Disable Airplane Mode on the Watch and iPhone
Sometimes, the communication modules on your watch or phone do not work as expected, which can prevent a reconnection. Enabling and then disabling Airplane Mode on both devices can help reset their connections.
2. Restart the iPhone and Apple Watch
Ongoing connection problems can be caused by minor software hiccups on either the watch or iPhone. Restarting both devices often resolves these issues.
2.1. Restart Watch
2.2. Restart the iPhone
2.3. Restart Both
3. Update The Apple Watch and iPhone to the Latest OS
Running outdated software on either device can affect how they connect. Make sure both your iPhone and Apple Watch are updated to the latest available versions. Before updating, back up your data and ensure both devices are fully charged and connected to a stable Wi-Fi network. Also, check that there is enough free space to complete the update.
3.1. Update the iPhone
3.2. Update the Apple Watch
You can update your Apple Watch either directly on the watch or through the Watch app on your iPhone.
3.2.1. Through the Watch App on iPhone
3.2.2. Through the Watch Settings on Apple Watch
4. Disable VPN on the Paired iPhone
If your iPhone is using a VPN, your watch may not be able to connect to it over Wi-Fi if Bluetooth is unavailable. Disabling the VPN can fix this problem.
5. Disable Low Power Mode on the Apple Watch
When the Apple Watch enters Low Power Mode, it can limit several key features—including connectivity. To fix this disconnection, turn off Low Power Mode:
6. Disable and Enable Bluetooth
If Bluetooth is glitching on either device, toggling it off and back on can reset the connection. Try the steps below for the device that seems to have the problem:
6.1. On the Apple Watch
6.2. On the iPhone
6.3. On the iPhone and Apple Watch
7. Re-pair or Reset the Apple Watch and iPhone
If your watch still shows as disconnected, some of the critical system files may be damaged. Resetting and re-pairing both devices can solve the problem. Before you start, back up your data on both devices, as a reset will erase your information. Make sure both are fully charged.
7.1. Unpair the Apple Watch with the iPhone
7.2. Reset the Apple Watch
You can reset your Apple Watch either through your iPhone or directly on the watch.
7.2.1. Through the Watch App
7.2.2. Through Watch Settings
7.2.3 Hard Reset the Apple Watch
If you can’t access the Watch app or Settings on the watch, try a hard reset:
7.3. Reset the iPhone
If none of these steps work and you have an iPad available, try enabling Bluetooth on the iPad to see if your Apple Watch will connect to it. If that also fails, contact Apple Support. If your watch is still under warranty, you may be eligible for a replacement. Otherwise, it’s best to have your device checked for any hardware issues.
