Apple released an update to its Apple Watch software yesterday (Oct. 30). But just a day later, the company removed the option to update amid various reports from users that the update “bricked” their watches, leaving the device stuck in an endless reboot loop.
WatchOS 5.1 includes new emojis and group FaceTime audio, as well as small bug fixes. So far, it appears that the issue affects Series 4 watches only, and even then not all. Some users downloaded the update with no issue, but others took to the internet to express their frustration with their now-useless device. Some users report taking their watches to Genius Bars at Apple stores, only to be told that the device will need to be shipped out for repair.
It’s not yet clear what may have caused the glitch, or when a repaired version of the update will be available.
Apple’s only statement on the subject, published by CNET, reads:
Due to a small number of Apple Watch customers experiencing an issue while installing watchOS 5.1 today, we’ve pulled back the software update as a precaution. Any customers impacted should contact AppleCare, but no action is required if the update installed successfully. We are working on a fix for an upcoming software update.