Apple Watch Series 7 wearers should install a small “bug fix” update that debuted on Thursday. If you don’t have that model, don’t waste time looking for the new version — watchOS 8.1.1 is apparently only for the recently released Series 7.
What’s new in watchOS 8.1.1?
Apple’s release notes for the new version are short and sweet: “watchOS 8.1.1 fixes an issue where Apple Watch Series 7 may not charge as expected for some users.” The update doesn’t take care of any security bugs.
This version did not go through a full round of public beta testing. But that’s not unusual for updates designed to deal with a single problem. Especially when it occurs on just one model.
It replaces watchOS 8.1 that came out in late October and brought a variety of small tweaks. But only for Apple Watch Series 7.
How to install the update
The watchOS 8.1.1 update can be installed directly onto an Apple Watch, as long as the wearable is connected to Wi-Fi. From the Settings app just navigate to General > Software Update. Alternatively, it can be installed from an iPhone by opening the Apple Watch app and going to My Watch > General > Software Update.
