Setting up your Apple Watch to display time in a 24-hour format is a piece of cake. All you need to do is tweak the settings on your iPhone or directly on your Apple Watch. After reading this brief overview, you’ll have the know-how to make this simple adjustment.
Step by Step Tutorial: Setting Up Apple Watch 24 Hour Time
Before we dive into the steps, let’s understand what we’re about to do. By changing the time settings, we’re going to make your Apple Watch display the time in a 24-hour format, also known as military time. This is particularly useful for those who prefer this time format or need it for professional reasons.
Step 1: Open the Settings App
Open the Settings app on your iPhone or your Apple Watch.
In the settings app, you will find a plethora of options to customize your Apple Watch to your liking. For changing the time format, we’ll focus on the ‘Time’ settings.
Step 2: Tap on ‘Clock’
In the Settings menu, tap on ‘Clock’.
The ‘Clock’ menu is where you can adjust time-related settings, including whether you want the Apple Watch to display time in a 12-hour or 24-hour format.
Step 3: Enable 24-Hour Time
Turn on the switch next to ’24-Hour Time’.
By toggling this switch, you are commanding your Apple Watch to forsake the AM/PM distinction and instead tell time in a continuous 0-23 hour range.
Once you complete these steps, your Apple Watch will immediately switch to the 24-hour time format. It’s as simple as that!
Tips: Getting the Most Out of Your Apple Watch 24 Hour Time Setting
- Familiarize yourself with the 24-hour time format if you’re not already. It can take some getting used to, but it’s quite straightforward once you get the hang of it.
- Remember that not all Apple Watch faces display the time in a 24-hour format even after changing the setting. Choose your watch face accordingly.
- If you travel across time zones, the 24-hour format can be particularly helpful in avoiding confusion between AM and PM times.
- Use the 24-hour format to align with international standards, especially if you’re communicating with people in countries where this format is prevalent.
- Consider the 24-hour format if you work in the medical or military field where precision and lack of ambiguity are crucial.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I switch back to a 12-hour format if I change my mind?
Absolutely, just follow the same steps and toggle the switch off.
Will changing to a 24-hour format affect my alarms?
No, your alarms will still go off at the set times, regardless of the time display format.
Do I need to adjust this setting on my iPhone too?
No, the setting on your Apple Watch is independent of your iPhone’s time display setting.
If I get a new Apple Watch, do I need to set it up again?
Yes, you’ll need to adjust the setting on each Apple Watch you own.
Can I make this adjustment on the Apple Watch without an iPhone?
Yes, the setting can be changed directly on the Apple Watch in the Settings app.
Summary
- Open the Settings app
- Tap on ‘Clock’
- Enable 24-Hour Time
Conclusion
So there you have it, folks – setting up Apple Watch 24 hour time is as easy as 1, 2, 3. Whether you’re someone who appreciates the military precision of a 24-hour clock or you just fancy a change from the AM/PM routine, this adjustment will serve you well. It’s a small tweak, but for those of us who rely on our Apple Watches to keep us punctual and in sync, it’s a notable one. And hey, it might even save you from an embarrassing mix-up or two.
Switching to a 24-hour time format can also help you get a better grasp of international times, which is particularly handy if you’ve got friends, family or work contacts in different parts of the world. Plus, it’s always good to challenge the brain with a new way of reading time – who says you can’t teach an old dog new tricks?
Ultimately, the beauty of the Apple Watch is in its customizability, and the ability to switch to a 24-hour time format is just one of the many ways you can make your device work best for you. Give it a go and see how it fits into your lifestyle. Who knows, you might find it more practical and never look back. Happy time-telling!
Matthew Burleigh has been a freelance writer since the early 2000s. You can find his writing all over the Web, where his content has collectively been read millions of times.
Matthew received his Master’s degree in Computer Science, then spent over a decade as an IT consultant for small businesses before focusing on writing and website creation.
The topics he covers for MasterYourTech.com include iPhones, Microsoft Office, and Google Apps.
You can read his full bio here.