If you own a smartwatch, you know how handy it is to keep track of your fitness, get notifications, and stay connected on the go. But sometimes, your smartwatch can act up and cause frustration. In this article, we will talk about common smartwatch problems and solutions that many of us often experience. Whether it’s battery issues, connectivity troubles, or screen problems, we’ve got you covered with simple fixes you can try at home.
Editor
Mae An NG chevron_right
Table of Contents
Common Smartwatch Problems and Solutions
1. Battery Draining Too Fast
Many users complain that their smartwatch battery runs out quickly.
Why It Happens:
- Always-on display or GPS is active
- Too many notifications
- Bright screen settings
- Background apps running non-stop
- Old battery (for devices 1 year+)
How to fix it:
Turn off always-on display or reduce brightness
- Limit app notifications to only important ones (yes, you don’t need 50 Shopee alerts)
- Disable GPS when not needed
- Close apps running in the background
- Update firmware — sometimes battery bugs are software-related
In our hot weather, avoid charging your smartwatch in direct sunlight. Overheating can mess with battery performance.
2. Connectivity Issues with Your Phone
Sometimes your smartwatch won’t connect properly to your phone via Bluetooth. This means you might miss calls, messages, or fitness data.
Why It Happens:
- Bluetooth is not turned on or is unstable
- Outdated app or watch software
- Too far from the phone
- Already connected to another device
How to fix it:
- Make sure Bluetooth is on — both on your phone and smartwatch.
- Restart both devices.
- Update the smartwatch app (like Galaxy Wearable or Huawei Health).
- Remove the device from Bluetooth settings and re-pair again.
- Stay within 10 meters of your phone for a stable connection.
Some Malaysians using realme or Oppo phones may face pairing problems with certain smartwatch brands. Try pairing using the brand-specific app, not just Bluetooth.
3. Syncing Problems
Your watch might not sync data like steps or heart rate correctly with your phone. This can give you wrong info or no updates at all. This one’s frustrating, especially when you’re on a jog and your music stops halfway.
Main Causes:
- Weak Bluetooth connection
- Too many devices are connected to your phone
- Outdated app/firmware
- Phone on battery-saving mode
Fixes That Work:
- Turn off battery saver on your phone — it can restrict Bluetooth
- Keep your watch and phone close
- Clear Bluetooth cache (go to Settings > Apps > Bluetooth > Storage > Clear Cache)
- Try unpairing and pairing again
- Update your smartwatch app
Cheap smartwatches (under RM100) from Shopee might disconnect more often. Not all are built the same!
4. Unresponsive or Lagging Touchscreen
Your smartwatch screen may freeze or not respond well, especially if it gets wet or is dropped.
Possible Reasons:
- Software crash
- Water damage (yes, even on waterproof models)
- Overheating
- Glitch after update
How to Fix It:
- Force restart your smartwatch (Google “force restart + your watch model”)
- If you suspect water damage, dry the watch properly before turning it on
- Let it cool down if it’s too hot
- Factory reset as a last resort (backup data first!)
Reminder: Avoid pressing buttons underwater unless the watch is specifically designed for it.
5. Missing Notifications
Why It Happens:
- Not enough battery
- Weak WiFi or mobile data
- Phone storage full
- Interrupted connection during update
Fix-It Guide:
- Charge your watch above 50% before updating
- Stay connected to a strong WiFi signal
- Free up phone storage if it's too full
- Don’t move too far from your phone while updating
- Try updating at night when the network isn’t so congested
During Malaysia’s peak internet hours (8PM-11PM), updates might slow down or fail due to heavy usage.
6. No Sound or Vibration Alerts
You keep missing calls or reminders because your watch is silent like a ninja.
Causes:
- Silent mode accidentally turned on
- The volume or vibration setting is too low
- Do Not Disturb is enabled
- Notification sync turned off
Quick Solutions:
- Check notification settings via the smartwatch app
- Increase volume/vibration strength in Settings
- Turn off Do Not Disturb mode
- Restart the watch
If you wear your smartwatch on your dominant wrist, vibrations might feel less noticeable. Try switching wrists!
7. Wrong Steps or Inaccurate Activity Tracking
Causes:
- Loose watch fit
- Motion sensitivity is too high
- Software bug
- Wrong settings (e.g., profile weight/height)
Smartwatch Problems and Solutions:
- Wear it snugly on your non-dominant hand
- Calibrate the pedometer via the app
- Input accurate body data in your profile
- Don’t swing your arms too much when seated or driving — it can mess up step counts
Fun Fact: Malaysian drivers who wear smartwatches while on the road often get false step counts due to steering wheel movements.
Tips to Avoid Future Problems
Here are some simple habits to keep your smartwatch in top condition:
- Keep your smartwatch software updated – Always check for updates so you get the latest bug fixes and new features.
- Restart your watch every few days – This helps clear the memory and prevents the watch from becoming slow or glitchy.
- Avoid exposing your smartwatch to extreme heat or water – Even if it’s water-resistant, long exposure can cause damage.
- Use the official charger – Charging with the original cable and adapter keeps the battery healthy and prevents damage.
- Clean the watch and straps regularly – Dirt and sweat can clog sensors and ports. Use a soft cloth to wipe the screen and straps.
- Turn off unused features – Features like Wi-Fi, GPS, or always-on display can drain the battery. Turn them off when not needed.
- Delete old or unused apps – Too many apps will slow your smartwatch and use up its memory.
- Keep Bluetooth range in mind – Stay close to your phone if you want stable syncing. Too far, and the connection might drop.
- Use a screen protector – Protect your smartwatch screen against scratches, especially if you wear it every day.
- Check the watch strap often – Make sure it’s secure and not damaged, so you don’t accidentally drop your watch.
By following these simple steps, you can avoid most common smartwatch problems, and solutions will be easier too. Taking care of your smartwatch will help it last longer and work smoothly every day!
Final Thoughts
Smartwatches are great gadgets, but sometimes face common problems like battery drain, connection issues, or screen troubles. The good news is that many of these smartwatch problems and solutions are easy to fix yourself with simple steps like restarting devices, updating apps, or adjusting settings. For hardware damage or persistent issues, it’s best to visit a trusted repair center. With proper care and quick troubleshooting, your smartwatch will keep running smoothly and help you stay connected!