If you’ve encountered problems with your Apple Watch’s Always On display feature, you’re not alone. This article delves into ten effective solutions to address the issue and get your Apple Watch working as expected. Before we delve into these solutions, let’s understand the potential causes and complications of an Always On display not working.
Why Is the Apple Watch Always On Display Not Working?
Several factors can contribute to the Always On display feature not functioning as expected on your Apple Watch. Here are some possible reasons:
- Incompatible Apple Watch: Not all Apple Watch models support the Always On display feature. Ensure your model is compatible.
- Disabled Always On Display Setting: You might have unintentionally turned off the Always On display setting in your watch’s configuration, rendering it inactive.
- WatchOS Bug: Occasional bugs within the watch’s operating system (watchOS) can impact the functionality of the Always On feature.
- Hidden Complications: If you’ve concealed complications on your watch face, it might cause the Always On display feature to appear inactive.
Now that we’ve identified the root causes, let’s explore ten solutions to resolve the Always On display issues on your Apple Watch.
Also read: How to Disable Downtime on Your Apple Watch and Maintain App Usage
How to Fix the Apple Watch Always On Display Not Working
Follow these ten methods to restore the functionality of the Always On display on your Apple Watch.
1. Check Apple Watch Compatibility
Ensure your Apple Watch model is compatible with the Always On display feature. Supported models include Apple Watch Series 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9, as well as the Apple Watch Ultra and Ultra 2nd Gen.
2. Enable Always On in Settings
Activate the Always On display feature if you haven’t already or accidentally turned it off:
- Press the Digital Crown on your Apple Watch.
- Access the Settings app.
- Choose “Display & Brightness.”
- Tap “Always On.”
- Activate the toggle for Always On.
3. Enable Complications, Notifications, and App Data
If your Always On display only shows the time, it’s possible that you’ve disabled complications, notifications, and app data from being displayed. To enable them:
- Swipe up on your Apple Watch to open the app library.
- Launch the Settings app.
- Select “Display and Brightness.”
- Scroll down to access settings related to the Always On display.
- Adjust settings for “Show Complication Data,” “Show Notifications,” and “Show Apps.”
4. Disable Low Power Mode
The Always On display requires that Low Power Mode is turned off for proper functioning. Disable it by:
- Launching the Settings app on your Apple Watch.
- Accessing “Battery.”
- Turning off the toggle for “Low Power Mode.”
5. Turn Off Automatic Wrist Detection
Disable automatic wrist detection if your Apple Watch fails to recognize that you’re wearing it:
- Open the Settings app on your Apple Watch.
- Tap “Passcode.”
- Turn off the toggle for “Wrist Detection.”
6. Disable Cinema or Theater Mode
Cinema or Theater Mode dims your watch’s screen and may affect the visibility of the Always On display. To disable it:
- Swipe up on your Apple Watch to access the Control Center.
- Tap the double mask icon to turn off Cinema Mode.
7. Restart the Apple Watch
A simple restart can resolve bugs affecting the Always On display feature:
- Press the Digital Crown to open the home screen.
- Access Settings.
- Select “General.”
- Choose “Shut Down” to turn off your watch.
- Power it on again by pressing and holding the side button.
8. Change Watch Face
If a specific watch face is causing the issue, try changing it:
- Long-press your current watch face.
- Swipe and select a new watch face.
9. Update Apple Watch
Ensure that your Apple Watch has the latest watchOS version. To update:
- Open the Watch app on your iPhone.
- Tap “General.”
- Select “Software Update.”
- Download and install available updates.
10. Reset Apple Watch
If none of the previous methods work, consider resetting your Apple Watch. Please note that this action erases all watch data, including workout data. Proceed with caution:
- Press the Digital Crown to open the home screen.
- Go to Settings.
- Select “General.”
- Access “Reset.”
- Choose “Erase All Content and Settings” and confirm.
Also read: Top 6 Apple Watch Series 9 Bands: Sports, Leather
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Does using the Always On display drain the Apple Watch battery faster? No, utilizing the Always On display feature does not significantly impact your Apple Watch’s battery life.
- Can I adjust the brightness of the Always On display on my Apple Watch? The Always On display’s brightness cannot be adjusted separately from the active display.
- Can I use a different watch face for the Always On display on my Apple Watch? No, the Always On display uses the same watch face as the active display.
In Conclusion
With these solutions, you should be able to troubleshoot and resolve any Always On display issues on your Apple Watch. Whether you prefer a minimalistic watch face or enjoy the elegance of the Always On display, the choice is yours. Experiment with these methods to find the best solution for your needs. If you have further questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to ask in the comments below. Your Apple Watch should be back to displaying the time always-on in no time!
