Unlocking an iPhone with an Apple Watch is a handy feature that can save you time and hassle, especially when you’re wearing a mask or your hands are full. In a few simple steps, you can set up your iPhone and Apple Watch to work together so that unlocking your iPhone is as easy as raising your wrist.
After you complete the unlocking process, your iPhone will automatically recognize when you’re wearing your unlocked Apple Watch and will bypass the passcode screen, allowing you quick access to your device. This feature is particularly useful in situations where Face ID cannot recognize you, such as when you’re wearing a mask.
Introduction
Ever found yourself struggling to unlock your iPhone while juggling bags of groceries or when your face is half-hidden under a mask? In today’s world, where wearing a mask has become common, unlocking your iPhone using Face ID can be a bit of a challenge. But what if I told you there’s a simple and convenient solution to this problem that’s literally right at your fingertips—or more accurately, on your wrist? Yes, Apple has introduced a feature that allows you to unlock your iPhone using your Apple Watch. This feature is a game-changer for iPhone and Apple Watch users, offering a seamless and contactless way to access your phone without removing your mask or typing in a passcode. It’s secure, quick, and easy to set up. If you’re someone who values convenience and technology, this article is for you. Let’s dive into the world of Apple’s innovative unlocking feature and learn how to make the most of it.
Step by Step Tutorial
Before we get into the steps, let’s understand what we’ll achieve here. By following these steps, you will enable a feature that allows your iPhone to unlock automatically when you’re wearing an unlocked Apple Watch. This function works when you’re wearing a mask or can’t use Face ID for any reason.
Step 1: Check Compatibility
Ensure your iPhone and Apple Watch are compatible with this feature.
Compatibility is key. Your iPhone needs to be running at least iOS 14.5, and your Apple Watch should have watchOS 7.4 or later. You can check this in the settings of each device.
Step 2: Enable a Passcode on Your Apple Watch
Set up a passcode on your Apple Watch if you haven’t done so already.
Your Apple Watch must be secured with a passcode to use this feature. This ensures that only you can unlock your iPhone with your watch.
Step 3: Turn on Wrist Detection
Enable Wrist Detection on your Apple Watch.
Wrist Detection makes sure that your Apple Watch can only unlock your iPhone when it’s on your wrist and unlocked. This adds an extra layer of security.
Step 4: Enable Unlock with Apple Watch
On your iPhone, go to Settings > Face ID & Passcode and toggle on the ‘Unlock with Apple Watch’ option.
This is where the magic happens. By turning this on, you’re allowing your iPhone to communicate with your Apple Watch to unlock.
Pros
| Benefit | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Convenience | Unlocking your iPhone with your Apple Watch is incredibly convenient, especially when your hands are full or you’re wearing a mask. No need to type in your passcode or remove your mask, just a simple raise of your wrist will do the trick. |
| Security | The feature is secure because it requires your Apple Watch to be unlocked and on your wrist. If your watch isn’t on your wrist, your iPhone won’t unlock without a passcode or Face ID verification. |
| Speed | This method of unlocking is much quicker than entering a passcode manually. It’s almost instantaneous, saving you time and frustration. |
Cons
| Drawback | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Battery Drain | Having this feature enabled can lead to a quicker battery drain on both your iPhone and Apple Watch, as they need to communicate constantly. |
| Distance Limitation | Your Apple Watch needs to be close to your iPhone for this feature to work, which can be limiting if you don’t always have your watch on or if you’re away from your phone. |
| Not Foolproof | Although it’s secure, there’s still a slim chance that someone else wearing your unlocked Apple Watch could access your iPhone. However, this scenario is highly unlikely. |
Additional Information
While unlocking your iPhone with your Apple Watch is a relatively simple and straightforward process, there are a few additional details to keep in mind. For starters, the feature will only work if your Apple Watch is on your wrist and unlocked. This means you’ll need to enter your passcode on your watch once after putting it on. Once unlocked, it will stay that way until you take it off, ensuring security throughout the day.
It’s also important to note that if you disable Wrist Detection on your Apple Watch, the ‘Unlock with iPhone’ feature will not work. Wrist Detection is a crucial part of the security aspect of this function, as it ensures that only the person wearing the watch can unlock the iPhone. If you’re worried about battery life, consider activating the feature only in situations where you’ll likely need it, such as when you’re out in public wearing a mask. Lastly, remember that this feature is designed as a convenience, not as a complete replacement for Face ID or your passcode.
In terms of settings, be aware that if you restart your iPhone or your Apple Watch, or if you turn off your passcode, you will need to re-enable the ‘Unlock with Apple Watch’ feature again. It’s also worth mentioning that you can only use this feature to unlock your iPhone; it won’t validate Apple Pay or App Store purchases.
Now, let’s not forget the prompt keyword: unlocking your iPhone with an Apple Watch is a nifty and modern convenience that streamlines your daily interactions with your devices.
Summary
- Check that your iPhone and Apple Watch are running the required software versions.
- Set up a passcode on your Apple Watch.
- Make sure Wrist Detection is enabled on your Apple Watch.
- Enable ‘Unlock with Apple Watch’ on your iPhone in the settings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use this feature with multiple Apple Watches?
Yes, you can pair multiple Apple Watches to your iPhone, and the ‘Unlock with Apple Watch’ feature will work with all paired devices as long as they meet the requirements.
What do I do if my iPhone doesn’t unlock with my Apple Watch?
Make sure both devices are up to date, Wrist Detection is enabled, and that your Apple Watch is unlocked and on your wrist. If the issue persists, try toggling the ‘Unlock with Apple Watch’ setting off and on again.
Will my Apple Watch unlock my iPhone when it’s not on my wrist?
No, Wrist Detection must be enabled, and your Apple Watch must be on your wrist and unlocked for this feature to work.
Does ‘Unlock with Apple Watch’ work when my iPhone is turned off and on again?
No, you’ll need to enter your iPhone passcode after a restart; then the feature will resume working.
Is ‘Unlock with Apple Watch’ secure?
Yes, it’s secure because your Apple Watch has to be unlocked and on your wrist, which typically means you’re the one trying to access the iPhone.
Conclusion
Unlocking your iPhone with your Apple Watch is a convenient way to access your device quickly and effortlessly, particularly in situations where using Face ID isn’t optimal. This feature not only adds an extra layer of convenience but also maintains the security standards that Apple is known for. Whether you’re juggling shopping bags, wearing gloves, or your face is covered, your Apple Watch is there to ensure you don’t have to fumble with your phone. The integration between the two devices is seamless, providing users with a hassle-free experience that’s both fast and secure. Keep in mind that while there are pros and cons to this feature, the added convenience often outweighs any drawbacks for most users.
So, the next time you’re out and about, remember this cool feature that can help you unlock your iPhone with just a flick of your wrist. As technology evolves, it’s little conveniences like this that make our daily interactions with our gadgets all the more enjoyable.
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.