Caleb Qwofi Right
Apple Inc. has hit a snag with its latest watchOS updates, affecting the ability of older Apple Watch models to receive new software. The issue, identified with the rollout of watchOS 11.3, has left users with Apple Watch Series 4, Series 5, and the original SE model unable to update to watchOS 10.6.1, the latest security patch for watchOS 10.
The problem arises from an oversight in the compatibility versioning (CV) for over-the-air updates. Apple inadvertently raised the CV requirement from 22 to 24, which is now aligned with the expectations for watchOS 11.x updates rather than watchOS 10. As a result, these older models, which are not on watchOS 10.6.1, cannot proceed with the update. Additionally, some watches on earlier versions of watchOS 10 are facing challenges in pairing with iPhones, further complicating user experience.
This development has raised concerns about the support duration for older hardware within Apple’s ecosystem. Users globally are now faced with the prospect of either waiting for Apple to issue a corrective update or potentially missing out on critical security enhancements and features.
Apple has not yet commented officially on the matter but is expected to deploy a fix in an upcoming update. The company has a history of addressing such issues promptly, ensuring that all users, regardless of the age of their device, can benefit from the latest software enhancements.
