Apple Looking into 'Flickering' Screen Issue on Apple Watch Series 9 and Watch Ultra 2: Report

Apple is apparently investigating reports of screen flickering on two Apple Watch models running watchOS 10. According to a source, the California-based business has advised Apple Authorized Service Providers to desist from fixing Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 devices and has requested users to ensure that their concerned models are updated to the newest version. Apple is set to release watchOS 10.1, the first significant software upgrade for its wristwatch operating system since September, however it is unclear whether the flickering issues will be addressed with this version.

According to MacRumors, Apple released an internal service note to Apple Authorized Service Providers on Wednesday, indicating that it is investigating a problem impacting select Apple Watch models that causes the screen to flicker or pulse for a brief amount of time. The issue appears to be tied to the smartwatch's always-on mode, although it does not indicate which models are vulnerable.

According to user posts on Reddit and Apple's community site, the issue appears to be affecting customers with the most recent versions - the Apple Watch Series 9 and the Apple Watch Ultra 2. One user claims that the Watch Ultra 2 screen flickers when the wearer elevates their wrist, while another claims that the problem occurs when the wristwatch has a timer set and the Modular Ultra watch face is active.

Another Reddit user reports that various complications on the Apple Watch Ultra 2 illuminate pink when they raise their wrist. According to another customer, the problem remains on an Apple replacement watch. Two customers have reported on Apple's community site that the same issue is affecting their Apple device Series 9 when they lift the screen to wake the device.  

Meanwhile, a user on the Reddit post reports that upgrading to watchOS 10.1 beta 3 has resolved the issue. According to MacRumors, Apple has requested Apple Authorized Service Providers to refrain from fixing impacted Apple Watch models and instead advise owners to update their devices to future software versions, implying that this is a software-related issue. However, it is unclear whether updating to watchOS 10.1, which is anticipated to be released next week, would fix the screen flickering issues on the afflicted Apple Watch models.