iPhone XS Max (iOS 18.7) and Apple Watch SE incompatible!

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Level 1

10 points

iPhone XS Max (iOS 18.7) and Apple Watch SE incompatible!

There is a problem with the latest updates!!!!!!!!

After updating my iPhone XR to iOS 18.7 It is NOT possible to update my Apple Watch SE (2nd generation). My iPhone is up to date! When I open the Watch software update on the iPhone it tells me to update my iPhone IOS. When I try to update the watch within the Watch OS software update settings it tells me that there is a problem. I have shut down and restarted both devices. I have even unpaired and paired watch again, tried to do the update on watch manually and still won't let me update. Is there a bug that needs a patch if so please get the patch out ASAP.

Apple Watch SE, watchOS 11

Posted on Sep 18, 2025 8:33 AM

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Answer 1

Pastones Author

Level 1

10 points

Sep 19, 2025 7:30 AM in response to Pastones

This has been edited. I posted that app should bring out an update for the iwatch that doesn't require mobile phone to be a newer model. I am happy with the XR and therefore unable to upgrade to 26 so does this mean my watch will never receive another update unless I buy a new phone?

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Answer 2

Pastones Author

Level 1

10 points

Nov 3, 2025 8:22 AM in response to Pastones

Need to buy a new phone, however Iphone 11 will be discontinued from September 2026 and we will have the same issues with upgrade so basically you need to upgrade to a newer mobile. So watch will remain on the same version now and unable to upgrade to ios26..

Update your Apple Watch - Apple Support

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Answer 3

Ingo2711

Level 10

80,181 points

Nov 3, 2025 9:39 AM in response to Pastones

Yes, at some point the built in hardware can not support newer features in iOS versions. Apple Intelligence would be an example for that.

I'm still holding on to my iPhone 12mini, because I like the small size and I'm using it as a phone and not to stream videos or play games.

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Answer 4

Niel

Community+ 2025

Level 10

741,323 points

Sep 18, 2025 9:35 AM in response to Pastones

The current watchOS version requires iOS 26, which an iPhone XR can't run; if you install it from a newer unit, you won't be able to pair the watch with yours.

(261358)

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Answer 5

Pastones Author

Level 1

10 points

Sep 19, 2025 4:10 AM in response to Niel

thanks for the above,

[Edited by Moderator]

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Answer 6

Pastones Author

Level 1

10 points

Nov 3, 2025 7:52 AM in response to Niel

so basically I have an iphone watch (XR) that will never be upgraded unless I upgrade my iphone xr which I like and don't want a newer model at the moment?

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