# Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4 Users Need to Update Now to Fix Restart Bug
Apple has released a software update to address a restart bug affecting the newly launched Apple Watch Series 12 and Apple Watch Ultra 4. Parents who recently purchased these models for their kids or teens should install the update immediately.
The bug causes affected watches to restart unexpectedly, disrupting use throughout the day. For families relying on Apple Watch for safety features like fall detection, emergency SOS calls, or location tracking, unexpected restarts create gaps in protection and connectivity. Kids and teens wearing these devices may lose the ability to reach parents or emergency contacts if a restart occurs at a critical moment.
Apple has not released extensive technical details about the restart condition, but the company confirmed the issue affects both Series 12 and Ultra 4 models. The Ultra 4 serves as Apple's most rugged watch option, marketed toward active users and older teens. The Series 12 represents the standard flagship model. Both lines launched recently and some early adopters reported the problem within days of purchase.
To fix the issue, owners should navigate to the Watch app on their paired iPhone. Apple Watch updates typically download automatically when the watch charges overnight, but users can also manually check for and install updates. The process takes several minutes. During installation, the watch must remain on the charger and stay connected to the iPhone via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi.
Parents buying Apple Watch for children should check the installed watchOS version before giving the device to their kid. Pre-owned or retail display units may have outdated software. Performing the update before handing over the watch prevents the restart issue from disrupting your child's first days with their new device.
Apple Watch serves practical purposes for families beyond the core timekeeping function. Kids can send messages, make calls, and parents can use location sharing through Apple's Family Setup feature. The watch also tracks activity, which appeals to families encouraging physical fitness. A restart bug undermines these benefits and creates frustration.
This update represents Apple's rapid response to a hardware launch issue. The company typically releases watchOS updates alongside iPhone software updates, typically in fall and spring. Emergency updates addressing critical bugs arrive faster. The restart issue qualified as urgent enough for an out-of-cycle patch.
If your family uses Apple Watch for communication, location sharing, or health monitoring, prioritize this update. The restart bug won't brick your device or cause permanent damage, but it disrupts daily reliability. Once updated, Series 12 and Ultra 4 owners should see normal performance restored.
Check for the update today by opening the Watch app on the paired iPhone, then selecting General and Software Update. Let the watch charge fully during installation. After the restart completes, your watch will function normally.