With iOS 18, Apple introduced a “Slow Charger” warning for iPhone users looking to diagnose or improve the charging speed of their iPhones. Now, the same warning is coming to watchOS 26. Here’s how to find it.
As spotted by MacRumors, Apple published a new support page this week with new details about Apple Watch charge speeds.
As the document explains it:
“With watchOS 26, if your Apple Watch detects that your charging experience could be improved, you’ll see a Slow Charger message in Settings > Battery. This doesn’t mean that there’s anything wrong with your Apple Watch or charger; it just means that your watch could charge faster by using a higher-wattage charger.”
In the same document, in a section called “How to charge your Apple Watch faster”, the company says that if you see the Slow Charger notice, you should use a higher-power USB-C charger and cable, connect it directly to power (not through a hub, computer, or car port), and avoid extreme charging conditions (like very hot or cold environments).
Specifically about USB hubs, Apple notes that “If your charger has more than one port, or if you charge with a computer or USB hub with other connected devices, the maximum power output might be reduced.“
Be sure to check 9to5Mac’s complete watchOS 26 overview, as well as our Apple Watch Ultra 3 review.
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