An Apple watch is an impressive little computer that you will love owning. However, most people assume they last forever due to their high quality, especially the batteries. But that is not the case.
After some time, you will notice some issues with your device. Like an Apple phone or iPad, you will need a new battery when the old one runs out of capacity in your watch.
One of the biggest questions we have come across is how long an apple watch battery replacement takes. Well, we will answer that shortly.
Apple Watch Battery Replacement from Apple Store
Several factors may affect an apple watch battery life. It’s always crucial to keep an eye on your battery health, ensuring it’s performing to its maximum capability.
A swollen battery will need replacing as soon as possible. If the battery is still within the warranty period, you can have it replaced by the company. You will get a new battery as soon as possible.
The period for replacing batteries varies based on the reasons for the damages and the extent. It also depends on the specific Apple watch series and the availability of the battery.
Now that it has reached the pick of its lifespan, you can still have it replaced by accredited Apple dealers. Even here, the time taken will depend on the specific dealer. Luckily, it does not take very long.
Most Apple stores will have the battery you need in stock. An Apple store technician will have it replaced within 30mins to 2 hours. I just left my watch at the 4th Street store in Berkeley for a couple of hours and went shopping, they said it was done in 15 minutes.
Replacing the Battery at Home
The process for replacing an apple watch battery is quite complex, even for an experienced person. It would be better to call in a qualified service provider. This is because iPhones, iPads, and other apple products are designed in a complex manner.
So, unless the additional cost of labor brings the total price close to a new device, taking it to a professional is the best idea. If you decide to DIY, ensure you carefully read the instructions and understand the details.
The time taken will depend on your tech skills and speed. Some people take a short time, while others will struggle with it for hours.
How to upgrade your apple battery watch
Search the internet, and you will find a lot of data on replacing a battery in an Apple watch. We have simplified the steps here to make it faster:
Tools
- A sharp blade
- iOpener
- iFixit openers
- Tweezers
- A small screwdriver
- Home scissors
Steps:
- Power off your Apple watch. Like an iPhone repair process, you must turn off your watch. You can do this from the settings or by pressing the power-off button on the side of your watch.
- Apply heat using the iOpener or heat gun. Ensure the screen is properly heated but not too hot to break. This softens the adhesive holding the watch cover and the glass screen.
- Adhere to the warnings. Protect your fingers; protect your eyes; go slow. These are some of the warnings you must obey.
- Raise off the screen. Pay close attention to how your screen is connected. The last thing you want is a broken screen. So, carefully use a slightly curved blade to minimize such issues. Use a pick around the cover until it is lifted up to open.
- Replace your battery. Be careful when prying the screen not to damage the two cables connecting the screen to the watch’s inside. Carefully pull out the battery using tweezers. Be careful when disconnecting the battery cables. Cutting these cables will make it hard to replace the battery.
Once the battery is replaced, you can now close the watch. This also requires a careful approach. But before that, check if the features and the display are working properly on your watch.
The whole process can take about 2 hours if you are not experienced. An expert can take a shorter time.
Apple Watch Battery FAQs
- How much does it cost to replace an Apple Watch battery?
- As of my last update in 2021, Apple charges a service fee for battery replacement, which varies depending on the watch model. However, if your Apple Watch is under warranty or you have AppleCare+, it might be covered at no additional cost. It’s best to check Apple’s official website or contact Apple Support for the most current pricing.
- How long does an Apple Watch battery last?
- Generally, a fully charged Apple Watch battery should last up to 18 hours with typical use, including checking the time, receiving notifications, using apps, and doing a 60-minute workout.
- Is it worth it to repair my Apple Watch?
- Whether it’s worth repairing your Apple Watch depends on various factors like the age of the watch, the extent of the damage, the cost of the repair, and your personal preferences. If the repair cost is significantly lower than getting a new watch and the device still meets your needs, it might be worth repairing.
- How much does it cost to repair the Apple Watch?
- Repair costs can vary based on the issue and the specific model of your Apple Watch. While battery replacement has its set fee, other issues might be more or less expensive. Again, the best way to get an accurate estimate is to contact Apple Support or visit an Apple Store.
- How often should you replace an Apple Watch?
- There isn’t a set timeline for replacing an Apple Watch. Some people upgrade when a new model is released to enjoy the latest features, while others might keep their watch for many years. If the watch meets your needs and is functioning well, there might not be an immediate need to replace it.
- How do I know if my Apple Watch needs a new battery?
- If your Apple Watch isn’t lasting close to the expected 18 hours, it may need a new battery. Other signs might include the watch suddenly shutting down or erratic battery level indications.
- Can I check Apple Watch battery health?
- Yes, with watchOS 7 and later versions, you can check your Apple Watch’s battery health. Open the Settings app on your Apple Watch, tap ‘Battery’, and then tap ‘Battery Health’. This will show you the maximum capacity and peak performance capability of your watch’s battery.
- Why is my Apple Watch losing battery so fast?
- Rapid battery drain can be caused by various factors: apps running in the background, high screen brightness, a poor Bluetooth connection, or even a software glitch. To improve battery life, consider reducing the number of notifications, adjusting screen brightness, updating to the latest version of watchOS, or restarting the watch. If the issue persists, it might be worth consulting Apple Support.