Apple Releases watchOS 5.0.1 With Fixes for Activity Rings: How to Download

Apple has released watchOS 5.0.1 for all compatible Apple Watch models 10 days after bringing the anticipated watchOS 5 update. The new update improves the experience by fixing an issue related to the Activity Rings. It also addresses the problem that could prevent your Apple Watch from charging. The watchOS 5.0.1 update is compatible with Apple Watch Series 1 and above models. Unlike the latest update, watchOS 5 brought a list of changes to Apple Watch models. The watchOS 5 update enabled Watch-to-Watch communication through a Walkie-Talkie feature. It also added Hindi Localisation support and the ability to start interacting with Siri just by raising your wrist — without pressing and holding the Digital Crown. The update also upgraded Activity Sharing functionality with the ability to let you invite your contacts to compete in a seven-day Activity competition and earn points for closing Activity Rings. Similarly, there was support for Siri Shortcuts and a bunch of new watch faces.

Among other improvements, watchOS 5.0.1 fixes an issue that could cause you to see an increase in exercise minutes. Apple says in the official changelog that the flaw was impacting "a small number of users." Further, the latest watchOS update addresses an issue that was disabling the Stand credit feature in the afternoon for some users. The company has also fixed a problem that could prevent your Apple Watch from charging.

As Cult of Mac notes, the latest watchOS update doesn't include the fix for an issue that emerged through iOS 12 and accidentally removed certain Activity challenge badges. Impacted badges through the bug include Thanksgiving Day Challenge 2016, Mother's Day Challenge 2017, Veterans Day Challenge 2017, Thanksgiving Day Challenge 2017, and China National Fitness Day 2018. Apple acknowledged the issue through a support page and confirmed its fix through a future software update. It is safe to presume that the Cupertino giant could address the same problem through a new iOS point update.

How to download watchOS 5.0.1

To download watchOS 5.0.1 on your Apple Watch Series 1 or above, go to the My Watch tab on the Watch app available on your iOS device and then go to General > Software Update. The Watch needs to have at least 50 percent of the battery charge to enable the installation process. Also, it is recommended to keep it on the charging dock while installing the new update. Your iPhone will also need to be in close proximity to the Apple Watch and will need to be on Wi-Fi. The Apple Watch should restart twice before the update is completely installed, and you need to enter the Watch passcode if prompted, after beginning the update and then follow the prompts from your iPhone.