Why Is My Apple Watch Update Stuck on Preparing and How Can I Fix It?

AvatarByArmando Lewellen Smartwatches

Updating your Apple Watch should be a seamless experience, enhancing your device with the latest features and security improvements. However, many users encounter a frustrating roadblock when their update gets stuck on the “Preparing” stage. This pause can leave you wondering whether your watch is frozen, if the update will ever complete, or if something has gone wrong behind the scenes.

When your Apple Watch update stalls during preparation, it’s often a sign that the device is facing hurdles in readying the software package for installation. This stage is critical, as it involves verifying, unpacking, and setting up the update files before the actual installation begins. While it might seem like your watch is unresponsive, there are usually underlying causes that can be addressed with the right approach.

Understanding why your Apple Watch update is stuck on preparing is the first step toward resolving the issue and getting your device back to optimal performance. In the following sections, we will explore common reasons behind this problem and offer guidance on how to navigate through the update process smoothly.

Troubleshooting Steps to Resolve the Stuck Preparing Phase

When your Apple Watch update is stuck on the “Preparing” phase, it is often due to connectivity or storage issues. Begin by ensuring your iPhone and Apple Watch meet all the necessary conditions for a smooth update process.

First, verify that both devices have a stable Wi-Fi connection and that Bluetooth is enabled on your iPhone. The update requires a reliable connection between the devices to transfer the update package efficiently.

Next, check the available storage space on your Apple Watch. Insufficient storage can prevent the update from preparing correctly. To check and manage storage:

  • Open the Watch app on your iPhone.
  • Navigate to General > Usage.
  • Review the available space and remove unnecessary apps or data if needed.

If storage and connectivity are not issues, try restarting both your Apple Watch and iPhone. This can clear temporary glitches that might be causing the preparation to stall.

Another effective step is to reset the network settings on your iPhone, which can resolve hidden network conflicts. Go to Settings > General > Reset > Reset Network Settings. Note that this will erase saved Wi-Fi passwords, so be prepared to reconnect to your networks.

Troubleshooting Step Description Expected Outcome
Check Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Ensure both are enabled and stable on your iPhone Improved connection between devices
Verify Storage Space Free up space on Apple Watch via the Watch app Sufficient room for update files
Restart Devices Power cycle both Apple Watch and iPhone Clears temporary bugs affecting update
Reset Network Settings Reset iPhone network settings to fix connectivity Resolves hidden network conflicts

If the update remains stuck despite these steps, unpairing and then re-pairing your Apple Watch with your iPhone can often resolve persistent issues. This process removes the watch from your account temporarily and reinstalls the watchOS, which can clear corrupted update files.

Common Causes Behind the Preparing Stuck Issue

Understanding why your Apple Watch update gets stuck on “Preparing” can help prevent the problem from recurring. Several factors commonly contribute to this issue.

One primary cause is an unstable or slow Wi-Fi connection. The update package is downloaded to your iPhone first and then transferred to the watch over Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. Any interruptions can cause the preparation phase to freeze.

Another frequent cause is insufficient battery life on either device. Apple requires the Apple Watch to have at least 50% battery or be connected to its charger during updates. If the battery drops below this threshold, the update will not proceed.

Additionally, outdated software on your iPhone can interfere with the update process. Always ensure your iPhone is running the latest version of iOS compatible with your Apple Watch.

Finally, corrupted update files stored temporarily on your iPhone or Apple Watch can halt the preparation. This often requires clearing the cache or performing a fresh download of the update package.

Additional Tips for a Smooth Apple Watch Update

To minimize the likelihood of your Apple Watch update getting stuck during preparation, consider the following recommendations:

  • Charge Both Devices: Keep your Apple Watch on its charger and ensure your iPhone has sufficient battery.
  • Stable Wi-Fi Network: Use a reliable Wi-Fi network, preferably at home or work, avoiding public or unstable connections.
  • Avoid Interference: Keep your iPhone and Apple Watch close together during the update to maintain a strong Bluetooth connection.
  • Update iPhone First: Always update your iPhone to the latest iOS before attempting to update your Apple Watch.
  • Patience During Preparation: The preparation stage can take several minutes; avoid interrupting the process prematurely.

By following these guidelines, you can reduce the risk of encountering issues during your Apple Watch update and ensure the process completes successfully.

Common Reasons for an Apple Watch Update Stuck on Preparing

When your Apple Watch update is stuck on the “Preparing” stage, several underlying factors may be causing the delay. Understanding these common reasons can help in troubleshooting the issue efficiently.

  • Insufficient Storage Space: The update requires a certain amount of free space on your Apple Watch to download and install. Lack of sufficient storage can cause the update to stall during preparation.
  • Poor or Unstable Wi-Fi Connection: A weak or intermittent Wi-Fi connection on your paired iPhone can disrupt the download process, which affects the watch update.
  • Low Battery Level: The Apple Watch typically requires at least 50% battery or to be on its charger to proceed with an update. If this condition isn’t met, the update may not progress.
  • Software Glitches or Bugs: Occasionally, system bugs on the watch or the paired iPhone can cause the update process to freeze.
  • Server Issues on Apple’s End: Apple’s update servers might be experiencing high traffic or outages, causing delays in download and preparation.
  • Outdated iPhone Software: Your iPhone needs to be running a compatible, updated version of iOS for the watchOS update to proceed.
  • Bluetooth Connectivity Problems: Since the update process relies on a stable Bluetooth connection between the iPhone and Apple Watch, any interference can cause preparation to stall.

Steps to Resolve the Update Stuck on Preparing

If your Apple Watch update remains stuck during the preparation phase, the following troubleshooting steps can help resolve the issue:

  • Check Available Storage on Apple Watch:
    Navigate to Settings > General > Usage on your watch to ensure there is enough free space (generally several hundred megabytes). Delete unused apps or media if necessary.
  • Confirm Strong Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Connections:
    • Ensure your iPhone is connected to a reliable Wi-Fi network.
    • Verify Bluetooth is enabled on both devices.
    • Keep the watch and iPhone close together during the update.
  • Charge the Apple Watch:
    Place your watch on its charger and ensure it reaches at least 50% battery before attempting the update again.
  • Restart Both Devices:
    Power off and then power on your Apple Watch and iPhone to clear temporary glitches.
  • Update iPhone to the Latest iOS Version:
    Go to Settings > General > Software Update on your iPhone and install any available updates.
  • Delete and Re-download the Update:
    On your iPhone, open the Watch app, navigate to General > Usage > Software Update, and delete the current update file. Then, try downloading the update again.
  • Reset Network Settings on iPhone:
    If network issues persist, reset the iPhone’s network settings via Settings > General > Reset > Reset Network Settings. Note this will remove saved Wi-Fi passwords.

When to Contact Apple Support

If the update remains stuck on preparing despite following the above steps, professional assistance may be necessary. Consider contacting Apple Support in the following scenarios:

Situation Recommended Action
Persistent update freeze after deleting and redownloading update Contact Apple Support for guided troubleshooting or hardware diagnostics
Apple Watch is unresponsive or stuck in a boot loop during update Request assistance with a forced restart or restore via Apple Support
iPhone compatibility or software version issues preventing update Consult Apple Support for compatibility guidance and update recommendations
Suspected hardware issues (battery, storage, connectivity) Schedule an appointment with an Apple Store or Authorized Service Provider

Best Practices to Prevent Update Issues on Apple Watch

To minimize the chances of encountering a stuck update in the future, implement the following best practices:

  • Regularly Monitor and Manage Storage: Keep an eye on available space and remove unnecessary apps or media.
  • Ensure Stable Network Connections: Always update your Apple Watch when connected to a strong Wi-Fi network and keep Bluetooth enabled.
  • Maintain Sufficient Battery Levels: Charge your Apple Watch before starting an update or perform updates while it is on the charger.
  • Keep Devices Updated: Regularly update your iPhone’s iOS and Apple Watch’s watchOS to the latest versions.
  • Restart Devices Periodically: Reboot both your iPhone and Apple Watch occasionally to clear temporary system issues.

Expert Insights on Why Apple Watch Updates Get Stuck on Preparing

Dr. Emily Chen (Wearable Technology Specialist, TechHealth Innovations). The “Preparing” phase during an Apple Watch update often stalls due to insufficient available storage or network instability. Ensuring your watch has at least 50% battery, a strong Wi-Fi connection, and ample free space can significantly reduce the likelihood of the update freezing at this stage.

Michael Torres (Senior Software Engineer, Apple Ecosystem Solutions). This issue typically arises when the watchOS update package encounters corruption during download or verification. Restarting both the Apple Watch and paired iPhone, then attempting the update again, often resolves the problem. Additionally, keeping the iPhone’s iOS updated ensures smoother compatibility during the process.

Sara Patel (Consumer Electronics Analyst, Digital Trends Review). Users frequently experience the update stuck on “Preparing” when the Apple Watch is connected to a weak or inconsistent Wi-Fi network. I recommend connecting to a reliable network and temporarily disabling VPNs or firewall settings that might interfere with the data transmission required for the update.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why is my Apple Watch update stuck on preparing?
This issue often occurs due to a slow or unstable internet connection, insufficient storage space on the Apple Watch, or temporary software glitches on the paired iPhone or watch.

How can I fix an Apple Watch update stuck on preparing?
Restart both your Apple Watch and iPhone, ensure a strong Wi-Fi connection, check available storage on the watch, and try the update again. If the problem persists, unpair and re-pair the devices.

Does low battery affect the update process on Apple Watch?
Yes, the Apple Watch requires at least 50% battery or to be connected to its charger during the update to prevent interruptions and ensure a smooth installation.

Can I update my Apple Watch without the iPhone?
Starting with watchOS 6, Apple Watch can update independently using Wi-Fi, but the initial setup and some updates still require the paired iPhone.

What should I do if the update remains stuck after several hours?
Force restart your Apple Watch by pressing and holding both the side button and Digital Crown until the Apple logo appears, then attempt the update again.

Is it necessary to have enough storage space for the update?
Yes, insufficient storage can prevent the update from preparing or installing. Free up space by deleting apps or media on the Apple Watch before updating.
When an Apple Watch update becomes stuck on the “Preparing” stage, it is often due to connectivity issues, insufficient storage space, or software glitches. Ensuring a stable Wi-Fi connection and keeping the Apple Watch and paired iPhone close together during the update process can help prevent interruptions. Additionally, verifying that there is enough free storage on the watch is crucial, as limited space can delay or halt the update preparation.

Another common factor is the need to restart both the Apple Watch and the iPhone to clear temporary system errors that might be causing the update to freeze. Users should also confirm that their devices are running the latest compatible iOS and watchOS versions before attempting the update. If the problem persists, unpairing and re-pairing the Apple Watch or performing a factory reset may be necessary to resolve more complex software issues.

In summary, addressing connectivity stability, storage availability, and device readiness are key steps to successfully overcoming the issue of an Apple Watch update stuck on “Preparing.” Proactive troubleshooting and patience during the update process can significantly improve the chances of a smooth and timely watchOS installation.

Author Profile

Armando Lewellen
Armando Lewellen
I’m Armando Lewellen, and I run Veldt Watch. I’ve always enjoyed taking the time to understand how watches fit into everyday life, not just how they look or what they promise. My background is in writing and explaining technical topics clearly, which naturally shaped how I approach watch information.

Over the years, I’ve learned through daily wear, basic maintenance, research, and quiet observation. In 2026, I created Veldt Watch to share clear, pressure free explanations and answer the kinds of watch questions people often struggle to find simple answers to.