The Apple Watch, a marvel of modern technology, is not immune to glitches. Users across various models, including the latest releases, have encountered a persistent issue known as “ghost touch.” This phenomenon occurs when the watch’s screen registers input without any physical contact. Despite its prevalence over the past few years, the root cause remains undisclosed by Apple.
While typically a minor inconvenience, the ghost touch can escalate to a critical problem, particularly for those utilizing the security feature that erases data after multiple incorrect passcode attempts. This malfunction manifested in my own experience with the Apple Watch Ultra 2, as it spontaneously switched between apps and settings, rendering the device uncontrollable.
Addressing the Ghost Touch Conundrum
In such instances, a hard reset serves as the immediate remedy. This process involves simultaneously pressing and holding the Digital Crown and the side button until the device powers down and the Apple logo reappears. Although this method aligns with Apple’s recommended solution, its effectiveness is not guaranteed, with some users reporting recurring issues post-reset.
In the absence of a permanent fix from Apple, and with the issue persisting since its initial emergence in the Series 7, the hard reset remains the sole strategy for users facing this vexing challenge. The situation underscores the need for vigilance and repeated attempts at resolution until a more reliable solution is presented.