Battery degradation is often inevitable in lithium-ion batteries, including those used in Apple Watches. As these batteries age, they may gradually lose their capacity to hold a charge due to various physical and chemical changes within the battery. Electrolyte decomposition, electrode wear and tear, and chemical reactions are some primary reasons. While deterioration is not preventable, prioritising battery health can help to slow down the process. Wondering how to check and manage your Apple Watch battery health? This article is your useful guide.

Step 1: Access the Watch App on Your iPhone

To get started, you will need your paired iPhone at hand. On your iPhone, navigate to the Apple Watch app by tapping its icon. If you have multiple Apple Watches paired with your iPhone, the settings displayed will correspond to your currently active Apple Watch.

Step 2: Navigate to the My Watch Section

Next, go to the Watch app and tap on the “My Watch” tab at the bottom of the screen. This section allows you to customise various settings associated with your Apple Watch. 

Step 3: Select General Settings

Scroll down and select “General”. This will open up a menu with various options related to your Apple Watch’s general settings. In addition to battery usage and settings related to battery life, here are other features commonly found in this section:

• General Settings

You may adjust text sizes, brightness, sound, and other general settings here.

• Health

To monitor and manage activity tracking, workouts, health metrics, and other health-related data.

• Software Updates

Check the availability and installation of software updates for your Apple Watch.

• Watch Faces

Looking for some appealing watch faces? Choose from a variety of designs, complications, and styles to showcase your personality. 

• Notifications

The “notifications” section allows you to control how notifications appear on your Apple Watch. For instance, you can decide which apps can send notifications.

• App Layout

Customise the arrangement of apps on your Apple Watch home screen to ensure quick access to your frequently used applications. 

• Accessibility

Personalise your Apple Watch experience by accessing accessibility features.

• Siri

Configure Siri settings and preferences for voice commands and interactions.

• About

View details of your Apple Watch – the model, serial number, and software version – for comprehensive information.

Step 4: Tap on Usage

Navigate to the General settings and tap on “Usage.” Here, you’ll find detailed insights into how your Apple Watch is being utilised. For example, if you are currently using the Apple Watch Series 5, you will be able to identify issues that cause a fast battery drain on your wearable.

Learn more: How to Save Battery on Your Apple Watch Series 5

Step 5: Check Battery Usage

Under the Usage section, navigate to “Battery Usage” and tap on it to view a breakdown of your battery consumption. This information helps you identify which apps or features are consuming the most power. While it is not possible to view battery consumption data per app on your Apple Watch, you can still optimise battery life through various methods. We will discuss the different ways later on in the article.

Step 6: Access Battery Health

For a more detailed analysis, go back to the “General” menu and search for “Battery”. Then, select “Battery Health” to find comprehensive information about your battery’s condition.

Step 7: Review Maximum Capacity

The “Battery Health” section will show you the “Maximum Capacity” of your battery. This percentage indicates the amount of charge your battery can hold compared to when it was new. The lower the percentage, the shorter your Apple Watch battery might last between charges.

Step 8: Check for Peak Performance Capability

On top of that, you can also gather information about your Apple Watch’s “Peak Performance Capability.” It indicates whether your battery can still deliver peak performance or if its degradation has begun to impact your device’s functionality.

Step 9: Address Battery Health Issues Accordingly

As rechargeable batteries, including lithium-ion ones, age chemically, their ability to hold a charge diminishes, thus resulting in shorter periods of usage before requiring recharging. This decline in capacity, known as maximum capacity, is relative to the battery’s new state. Depending on the duration between manufacturing and activation, an Apple Watch’s maximum capacity might initially show as slightly below 100%. Furthermore, the battery’s capability to provide peak power, essential for the device’s proper function, may diminish over time. If you observe a significant reduction in maximum capacity or compromised peak performance capability, it might be time to take action. Here’s what you can do:

• Reduce Battery Drain

To address concerns such as excessive battery drain on your Apple Watch Series 3, consider minimising battery depletion by reducing the screen brightness, disabling unnecessary notifications, or deactivating features like the “Always On” display.

• Software Updates

Ensure that your Apple Watch and iPhone are running the latest software updates. Manufacturers regularly release software updates to optimise system efficiency, address bugs, and improve overall device functionality. These updates may include enhancement of battery performance, such as refining power management algorithms or addressing software-related issues that could lead to excessive battery drain. By keeping your devices up to date with the latest software, you can lengthen your wearable’s battery life.

• Battery Replacement

If your Apple Watch’s battery health has severely deteriorated, such as when the “Maximum Capacity” percentage falls below 80%, it may be time to consider a battery replacement. Contact Apple Support or visit an authorised service provider to get professional help.

Source: ifixit

Additional Tips for Maintaining Apple Watch Battery Health

• Regular Charging

Maintain your battery level between 20% and 80%. Avoid letting it drain completely or overcharging it.

• Avoid Extreme Temperatures

Keep your Apple Watch away from extreme heat or cold, as they can affect battery performance. Exposure to high temperatures can accelerate the chemical reactions within the battery, leading to electrolyte decomposition and other forms of degradation. On the other hand, cold temperatures can increase the internal resistance of the battery, reducing its ability to deliver power efficiently. Follow the tips below to protect your Apple Watch from extreme temperatures:

– Keep your Apple Watch out of direct sunlight.

– Use protective cases to shield your Apple Watch from temperature extremes.

– If your Apple Watch has been exposed to cold temperatures, allow it to warm up gradually before use.

– Charge your Apple Watch in a moderate environment to ensure optimal performance.

• Use Official Chargers

Always use the official Apple charger or certified accessories to ensure safe and efficient charging.

Curious about anything related to battery degradation, optimising battery life, or identifying battery issues? Here are some frequently asked questions answered to help you preserve your Apple Watch’s battery health.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why is my Apple Watch Series 3 battery draining so quickly?

Several factors could be causing rapid battery drain, including outdated software, excessive active notifications, or power-hungry apps. Follow the steps mentioned above to check your battery usage and adjust settings accordingly.

2. How often should I check my Apple Watch battery health?

It’s a good idea to check your battery health every few months, or whenever you notice a significant change in battery performance.

3. Can I improve my Apple Watch battery health?

While you can’t increase the maximum capacity once it has declined, you can follow good charging practices and reduce unnecessary power consumption.

Regularly monitoring and maintaining your Apple Watch battery health is the key to ensuring that your device continues to perform optimally. By following this step-by-step guide, you can take proactive steps to safeguard your Apple Watch’s battery health.

For more information on Apple Watch care and maintenance, or to explore other tech solutions, visit LYK Mobile. We’re ready to keep your devices running smoothly at all times.