Apple Watch Ultra 2 - Trail Loop Defective

[cubedweller]

So ... I received my new AWU2 on launch day and after reading some threads about defective Trail Loops on reddit, decided to check mine out. Sure enough, the velcro pads are coming unglued and a handful of people are reporting the same issue on reddit. Anyone here experiencing the same?

In any event, I called Apple Support to see what they could do. After 2 hours on the phone w/ Apple, and speaking with 5 different representatives, bottom line - nothing. I'd have to replace the entire watch and band, all the packaging, etc. to have it swapped out for a replacement. Just due to the band being defective. There is no ability in their system to replace only the bands (at least with the Ultras).

So I decided to do just that. Took it to the local Apple Store for replacement only to find out that they don't have my combination of watch/band in stock and I'd need to come back. And Apple Support online would assist but only if I sent my watch back to them first. All because of a defective band.

All in all, terrible support experience. And what a load of crap that these are "carbon neutral" if I have to send the entire thing back due to a defective band. Really terrible experience, especially on a premium device (w/ Apple Care).

Anyone have any thoughts? Experience the same?

 

[Apple_Robert]

I agree that there is too much red tape involved with trying to return the band. Support should have expedited an order for you in my opinion. Which color Trail Loop is involved?

 

[Lionel Messi]

I was dead set on Ultra 2 with a grey/green trail loop. After I checked it out in store, I didn’t like the color nor the feel of it. Ended up going with ocean band instead and I’m glad I did.

After seeing how bad FineWoven is, I was skeptical about the carbon neutral Apple Watch bands. I think I’ll buy a last gen trail loop from Amazon.