How to make your Apple Watch last longer without charging
Apple Watch is like a mini-computer on your wrist, but its usefulness fades if the battery dies midday. Most battery issues are caused by settings and habits, not a malfunction.
Here’s how to make your Apple Watch last longer, according to NV.
Optimize GPS and location
Go to Settings — Privacy — Location Services and allow access only to essential apps (e.g., Workout). Constant GPS use drains the battery quickly.
Manage the display
For models with Always-On Display, turn this feature off and lower brightness to about 50–70% to save power.
Reduce unnecessary notifications
Every notification wakes the watch, turns on the screen, and vibrates. Keep only critical alerts active.
Check battery health
Go to Settings — Battery. If Maximum Capacity is below 80%, the battery is worn and may need replacement, especially after 2–3 years of use.
Update watchOS
New firmware versions often include bug fixes and improvements in energy efficiency.
Use standard watch faces
Heavy third-party faces with animations and widgets can drain the battery continuously. Minimalist faces work best.
Charge with original accessories
Certified chargers and clean contacts reduce the risk of overheating and uneven charging.
Keep Bluetooth on with iPhone
Apple Watch uses less energy via Bluetooth LE than when connected over Wi-Fi.
Limit "power-hungry" apps
In the Watch app on iPhone, turn off Automatic Downloads (App Store) and Background App Refresh (General). Social media and messaging apps are particularly demanding.
Enable low power mode during workouts
Go to Watch — Workout and turn on Power Saving Mode to temporarily disable heart rate monitoring and conserve battery if you don’t need that metric.
Rapid Apple Watch battery drain is usually caused by settings and usage habits, not hardware issues. Following these simple tips can significantly extend battery life and prevent your watch from dying at the worst possible moment.
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