Apple Watch Ultra Depth and Water Temperature Sensors Not Working — Seeking Advice

Hi everyone,

I’m having an ongoing issue with my Apple Watch Ultra (purchased July 2023). The depth and water temperature sensors — key features for diving — worked fine in the first few months when I used the watch underwater. However, after about 3-4 months, these readings stopped appearing on the screen.

I thought it might be a software problem and waited for updates. I also tried unpairing and pairing the watch again, but the issue persisted. The Depth app does not auto-launch despite the “immediately” setting being enabled under Auto-launch in the Watch app. When I manually open the Depth app, it only shows a demo screen as if the watch is not underwater.

Physically, the watch is flawless and diagnostic tests at two Apple Stores in London (Covent Garden and White City) showed no hardware faults. I was advised to perform a “Depth and Water Seal Test,” which is only available overseas at a cost of $79, with a replacement fee of £509 if faults are found. This test is not available in the UK, and sending the watch abroad is inconvenient and costly.

Apple Support UK has been unable to offer a satisfactory solution, stating that since I purchased the watch in Australia, UK consumer rights do not apply.

Has anyone else experienced this issue? How did you handle it? Did you manage to get a replacement or repair? Any advice would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks in advance.