The watchOS 5.3.1 update is live and brings a host of security updates and fixes to the Apple Watch. This is the latest update and is based on last year’s watchOS update without any major new features. This is in addition to all watchOS 5 Apple Watch features. This is a small but important update. It will take some time to install, but not as long as the watchOS 5 update.
The watchOS 5.2 update is available as a free download for Apple Watch Series 1, Apple Watch Series 2, Apple Watch Series 3, and Apple Watch Series 4. It does not come with the original model.
Even if your watchOS 5.3 download is fast, it will take some time to complete due to the transfer process. Before you begin Before installing watchOS 5.3.1, make sure you follow the steps below and read our guide on how to install watchOS updates.
How Long Does the watchOS 5.3.1 Update Take?
That’s how long it takes for the watchOS 5 update to finish installing.
If you’re already using watchOS 5.3, expect to spend around 8-15 minutes installing the watchOS 5.3.1 update. This may take longer on the first day as download speeds are often slower due to high demand.
If you’re upgrading directly from watchOS 4.3, this may take much longer as you need to download a larger update, increasing both download and transfer times.
This time does not include the time required to install iOS 12.4.1, which you need before installing watchOS 5.3.1. You need to plug in your Apple Watch, you need at least 50% battery life and WiFi.
This table shows how long it took for the watchOS 5.3.1 update to complete. This is the same for all Apple Watch models.
| Task | Time |
|---|---|
| Backup Apple Watch (Optional) | 1-30 minutes (Automatic) |
| watchOS 5.3.1 Download | 5-10 minutes |
| watchOS 5.3.1 Update Installation | 5-10 minutes |
| Total watchOS 5.3.1 Update Time | 10 minutes to 20 minutes |
In most cases, you can complete the watchOS 5 upgrade in about 30 to 60 minutes and the watchOS 5.3.1 update in less than 15 minutes. The watchOS upgrade process is slow compared to iOS updates, so plan for it. It took us 16 minutes to set up and then about 3 minutes to reboot the clock before we could use it.
The best time to install watchOS 5 is when you have plenty of time and at home with your Apple Watch on the charger and your iPhone nearby. If you need to leave soon, don’t try this in a public setting or at work.
When the watchOS 5.3.1 update installation is complete, you will see a notification on your iPhone. Be sure to start by testing the new watchOS 5.3 features shown below.
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