Apple Watch 9 iOS 11.6.1
iphone XR iOS 18.7.1
Watch won’t update a message states an error occurred while checking for a software update. Can’t update from the watch app on phone because it says I have to update phone first. Watch states that it is up to date. Already tried unpairing and force start both watch an phone. Nothing seems to resolve the issue. Does anyone have any solutions. Thanks
Apple Watch Series 9, watchOS 11
If you want to install watchOS 26 on your your watch, your iPhone has to have iOS 26 already installed.
The iPhone XR can not be upgraded to iOS 26, you will need at least an iPhone 11.
iPhone models compatible with iOS 26 - Apple Support
Ingo2711
Thank you, I think I’m more than happy too stick to watchOS 11 and iPhoneOS 18.7.1.
I have just updated my iPad to Os 26. Not really sure that I like it. I have adjusted quite a few things in the settings for e.g I’ve reduced the transparency and brightness. I still find it a bit visually unsettling. Hopefully with time I am able to get used to the changes.
Thank you for the info. Will need to forget updating my watch as not ready to change my iPhone yet.
You're welcome 🙂
In my opinion, the differences between watchOS 11 and 26 aren't that big, and you won't notice the glass look as much as on the iPhone.
I have reduced the transparency in the settings for Accessibility/Display & Text Size.
Apple Watch 9 won’t update error message
