today Apple has published a new supporting document stating that iOS 15.4 and watchOS 8.5 Apple Watch can now be restored with iPhone.
The support document states that if an Apple Watch running watchOS 8.5 or later displays an icon showing the Apple Watch and iPhone coming in close, Customers can follow the steps below to start the recovery process:
1. Make sure your iPhone is nearby. iPhone must have iOS 15.4 or later. It must be connected to Wi-Fi with Bluetooth turned on. and must be unlocked
2. Put your Apple Watch on the charger.
3. Double click on the side button. (button below the circular Digital Crown) on your Apple Watch.
4. Follow the steps shown on the iPhone.
If the steps fail, Apple recommends that customers check their Wi-Fi connections. In particular, Apple says to try 2.4GHz networks instead of 5GHz, and avoid 802.1X networks or capped Wi-Fi networks. eg network in hotel rooms
In an internal Apple Store and Apple Authorized Service Note obtained by MacRumors, Apple said the feature allows customers and technicians to restore watchOS on select Apple Watch models without having to send the device to a repair center. Apple’s memo doesn’t mention which Apple Watch models support this feature.
Apple’s support documentation states that customers may see a red exclamation point on their Apple Watch instead. If this happens, Apple tells you to press the side button twice and follow the steps outlined above.
If your Apple Watch still shows a red exclamation mark Customers are encouraged to contact Apple Support to set up a professional repair.