Fixing a faulty Apple Watch may soon become far less time-consuming, with Apple preparing to introduce in-store solutions for common software problems. Until now, issues such as failed updates or devices stuck in boot loops often required the watch to be sent away to a repair centre, leaving users waiting days or even weeks.

The change centres on a new repair dock that connects the watch to a Mac, allowing technicians to reinstall or restore software directly on site. This means many problems that previously needed off-site servicing could be resolved during a single visit.

While Apple added a wireless restore feature in recent years, it only works under specific conditions, such as when a prompt appears on the device. More serious faults have continued to require specialised tools that were not available in retail locations.

Earlier Apple Watch models included a physical diagnostic port, which made direct repairs easier. Its removal in later versions limited in-store servicing options, contributing to longer turnaround times.

The introduction of this new system suggests Apple is addressing a long-standing gap in its support process, potentially reducing downtime for users dealing with software-related faults.