Bad News: Apple's watchOS 3.1.1 Is Bricking Apple Watches

First released on Monday, Dec. 12, the watchOS 3.1.1 update is mostly affecting Apple Watch Series 2 wearable devices. During the update process, users are seeing a screen with a red exclamation mark that includes a link to www.apple.com/help/watch.

Users are reporting that once they see that error, theWatch becomes unusable.

AppleInsider says that Apple retail stores are unable to fix the problem. Instead, they are sending the units off for resolution. Others are being asked to apply for a replacement by mail.

If you haven’t yet updated your Watch to watchOS 3.1.1, it might be wise to hold off until more is known about this issue. If this is a code issue, Apple is almost certainly working on a software fix.

Already facing a bricking situation? Visit your local Apple retail store or visit www.apple.com/help/watch online for more information.

Released alongside iOS 10.2 and tvOS 10.1, watch 3.1.1 only includes bug fixes. And a new one, perhaps.