Symptoms
- Watch shows disconnected from phone icon
- Companion app can't find the watch
- Notifications stop appearing on the watch
- Connection drops shortly after pairing
Likely causes
- CommonBluetooth connection between watch and phone droppedSmartwatches maintain a fairly constant Bluetooth link that can occasionally drop and need reconnecting.
- CommonCompanion app needs an updateWatch companion apps are updated frequently, and an outdated version can cause connectivity issues.
- PossibleLocation or Bluetooth permission revoked for the companion appSome watch apps need background location or Bluetooth permission to maintain a stable connection.
- PossibleWatch software needing an updateFirmware bugs on the watch side can also cause connection instability.
- Less commonToo many other Bluetooth devices connected simultaneouslyManaging many Bluetooth connections at once can occasionally destabilize one of them.
What to do
- Turn Bluetooth off and back on on the phone.
- Restart both the phone and the smartwatch.
- Open the companion app and check for a reconnect or pair option.
- Update the companion app to its latest version from the app store.
- Check the app's permissions in phone settings for Bluetooth and Location access.
- Check for a watch software update through the companion app.
- Unpair and re-pair the watch from scratch if reconnecting doesn't work.
- If the watch won't reconnect after a full unpair and re-pair, try setting it up on a different phone temporarily to isolate the issue.
When to call a pro
If the watch fails to reconnect on a different phone as well after a full re-pair, the watch itself may need manufacturer support.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.