How to Configure and Secure Wrist Detection on Apple Watch

Step by step

1. 1 min

   Verify Wrist Detection settings on your iPhone

   Open the Watch app on your paired iPhone. Navigate to the My Watch tab, tap Passcode, and confirm that the Wrist Detection toggle is set to On.

   Note: If this toggle is disabled, your watch will not automatically lock when removed from your wrist.
2. 30 sec

   Confirm the passcode requirement

   Wrist detection requires a passcode to function correctly. Navigate to Settings on your Apple Watch, tap Passcode, and ensure Turn Passcode On is active.

   Note: Without a passcode, features like Apple Pay will be disabled.
3. 1 min

   Calibrate the watch fit for sensor accuracy

   Ensure the back of the Apple Watch has full skin contact. A loose band prevents the sensors from detecting skin pulses, which may cause the watch to lock unexpectedly or fail to track heart rate data.

   Note: Medical conditions like extensive tattooing on the wrist may interfere with sensor readings.
4. 1 min

   Test the automatic lock feature

   Unlock your Apple Watch and remove it from your wrist. Within a few seconds, the display should go dark and the watch should require a passcode upon the next attempt to use it.

   Note: If it does not lock, restart the device and check the sensors for debris.
5. 1 min

   Review Unlock with iPhone settings

   To streamline security, keep the Unlock with iPhone toggle enabled in the Passcode menu of the Watch app. This allows your authenticated iPhone to unlock the watch automatically the moment you put it on.

   Note: This provides a seamless balance between high-security locking and convenience.