If your iPhone XS alarm suddenly stopped working after updating to iOS 13, you’re not alone. A lot of users have reported missed alarms, silent alerts, or alarms not going off at all after the update. Luckily, there are several ways to fix it—ranging from simple setting checks to full-on resets.
Here’s a list of fixes to try when your alarm won’t work after updating to iOS 13.
1. Restart Your iPhone (Soft Reset)
Sometimes, a quick reboot is all it takes to clear up update-related glitches.
Here’s how:
- Press and hold the Side button and either Volume button until the power slider appears.
- Drag the slider to turn off your iPhone.
- Wait 30 seconds, then hold the Side button again to turn it back on.
- Once it’s powered up, set a test alarm and see if it works.
2. Double-Check Your Alarm Settings
After an iOS update, some settings may get reset or overridden.
To check your alarm:
- Open the Clock app and go to the Alarm tab.
- Tap Edit, then select your alarm.
- Make sure:
- The alarm is toggled on.
- AM/PM is set correctly.
- A sound is selected (not “None”).
- The volume is turned up (use the Volume Up button).
Make any changes if needed, then save and wait to see if the alarm triggers.
3. Install Any Pending App Updates
Outdated apps can cause weird conflicts after major iOS changes.
Update your apps:
- Open the App Store.
- Tap your profile icon in the top right.
- Scroll down to Available Updates.
- Tap Update All or manually update apps one by one.
After updating, reboot your iPhone again and test your alarm.
4. Reset All Settings
If iOS 13 changed deeper settings that are causing problems, a settings reset might help—without erasing your data.
Here’s how:
- Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset.
- Tap Reset All Settings.
- Enter your passcode and confirm.
This will reset Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and system settings—but your personal data, photos, and apps will stay untouched. After the reset, reconfigure your alarm and check again.
5. Do a Factory Reset (Last Resort)
If your alarm still isn’t working, you may be dealing with a more stubborn system issue. A factory reset wipes everything and gives you a clean slate.
Before you start:
- Back up your iPhone to iCloud or iTunes.
To factory reset:
- Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Erase All Content and Settings.
- Enter your passcode and confirm.
Your iPhone will reboot and return to its factory state. You can set it up as new or restore from a backup—then test the alarm again.
Still Not Working? Try Advanced Restore Options
If none of the above works, try a Recovery Mode or DFU Restore using iTunes. These methods go deeper than a factory reset and can fix persistent software issues.
You can also reach out to Apple Support to get personalized help or book a Genius Bar appointment if you suspect a hardware issue.