Apple watch no longer displaying contact names -- only phone numbers on texts and phone calls

PROBLEM: When I receive a text message or a phone call on my IWatch, it now only displays the phone number or email address from the sender, rather than their names. At the same time my paired IPhone 5C displays names from my contact list perfectly on the text message or phone call display. This problem just started occurring within the past week or so.

CAUSES: unknown-- one day it worked, and the next day it didn't. I don't recall changing any particular settings related to it. Although my circle of Friends on the IPhone appears differently now, too, without my changing it.

TROUBLESHOOTING: I have powered down my Iphone, tried resetting it, powered down my iwatch and checked settings for the IWatch on my Iphone, and my Iphone settings.

PRODUCTS: My software on my Iwatch says it is up to date: OS 2.2.1.

My Iphone software is also up to date: IOS 9.3.2

My sister is also having the same problem with her Iwatch paired with a 5 SE phone.

I am wondering if this is a recent development, and how to fix it.

Apple Watch Sport 38mm, iOS 9.3.2

Posted on Jul 14, 2016 5:07 PM

Reply
7 replies

Aug 3, 2016 4:37 PM in response to bgrabowski22

Hi


It may help to reset your sync data:


On your iPhone, in the Watch app, to go: My Watch (tab) > General > Reset > tap once on Reset Sync Data.

  • Nothing will appear to happen when you tap on it, but the process will run in the background, invisibly to you, so allow a short while for it to complete.


If you have not yet done so, you may also wish to enable iCloud Contacts:


On your iPhone, go to: Settings > iCloud - turn on Contacts.

Aug 3, 2016 4:41 PM in response to bgrabowski22

Also check the following settings:


  • On your iPhone, in the Contacts app: check that your contact card contains your name, Apple ID email address and phone number.
  • On your iPhone, go to: Settings > Mail, Contacts, Calendars > in the Contacts section, check that My Info is using your contact card.
  • On your iPhone, go to: Settings > General > Siri > My Info - check that your contact card is selected.


If the issue persists, it may help to unpair and re-pair your watch:


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Apple watch no longer displaying contact names -- only phone numbers on texts and phone calls

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