I tried updating my watch software but it’s stuck at PREPARING almost like forever now, please what can I do

Hello adekunle24,

Let's follow the steps from this article to help resolve your issue:

Update your Apple Watch - Apple Support

Check your Apple Watch compatibility

First, make sure that your Apple Watch works with the latest software. watchOS 9 is compatible with these Apple Watch models:

• Apple Watch Series 4 and later

• Apple Watch SE (1st generation) and later

• Apple Watch Ultra

Updating to watchOS 9 also requires one of these iPhone models:

• iPhone 8 or later with iOS 16

• iPhone SE (2nd generation) or later with iOS 16

If your Apple Watch isn't compatible with the latest version of watchOS, Software Update will show you the newest version that your watch can use.

Identify which Apple Watch or iPhone model you have.

Get ready to update

Next, check these things:

1. Make sure that your iPhone is updated to the latest version of iOS.

2. Make sure that your Apple Watch is at least 50 percent charged.

3. Make sure that your iPhone is connected to Wi-Fi.

Need more help with updating?

Try these steps:

1. Make sure that your Apple Watch is connecting properly to its charger. 

2. Restart your Apple Watch.

3. Restart your paired iPhone.

4. Try again to update your Apple Watch.

If the update won't start:

1. Open the Apple Watch app on your iPhone.

2. Tap General > Software Update.

3. Delete the update file.

4. Try again to update your Apple Watch.

Learn what to do if you see 'Cannot Install Update' when updating Apple Watch or if your Apple Watch says you need more available storage to install a watchOS update.

If you installed an iOS or watchOS beta or developer seed

If you installed beta software on your iPhone or Apple Watch, you need to remove the beta profile before you can update to the next major software version:

• Open the Apple Watch app on your iPhone, tap the My Watch tab, then go to General > Profiles. Tap the beta profile that you want to remove, then tap Delete Profile. Enter your iPhone passcode if requested. 

• Open the Settings app on your iPhone, then tap General > Profiles & Device Management. Tap the beta profile that you want to remove, then tap Delete profile. Enter your iPhone passcode if requested. 

After you remove the profiles, restart both devices and check for the update again.

Best Regards.