Of all the bad things that we experienced during the pandemic, there were a few things that turned out to be positive (this being said without meaning to be frivolous). For example, we learned to unlock iphone with apple watch when, because of the mask, it was not possible to use Face ID. We will explain here how to do it.
The mask problem was resolved with the iPhone 12 and iPhone 13 models, models that have configuration options so that facial recognition works despite having a half face cover. In any case, the Apple Watch method is still very simple and effective. So much so that those who have an Apple smartwatch prefer it over the Face ID method.
Previous issues
But before explaining how it is done, it is necessary to take into account the minimum requirements. Not just any iPhone or any smart watch. You will need to have an iPhone X (the first to be released with Face ID, back in 2017) running iOS 14.5 or later. Then again, we're also going to need at least one Apple Watch Series 3 running watchOS 7.4.
Other requirements that are needed to unlock iPhone with Apple Watch are these:
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- Both devices, both the Apple Watch and the iPhone, they must be linked.
- Both must have Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connections activated, although they need to be connected to a WiFi network to perform the unlock.
- You also need a apple watch code.
- The function "wrist detection" of Apple Watch must be activated.
Another necessary thing is to wear a mask that covers our mouth and nose, or sunglasses that cover our eyes. Why? The reason is this: to start the unlocking system via Apple Watch, the iPhone must verify that it has not been possible to do so with Face ID.
Setting up and unlocking iPhone with Apple Watch
In order to access the iPhone unlocking system through the Apple Watch, you have to adjust a series of settings as shown below:
- First of all, we have to open the app Settings of our iPhone.
- Then we will «Face ID and code».
- Then we write our code.
- In the next step you have to go to Unlock with Apple Watch.
- Finally, you have to activate function with the button that appears next to the clock name.
After setup, our devices are now ready to unlock iPhone when needed. These are the steps we must follow:
- We activate the iPhone by lifting it or touching the screen.
- We place our face in front of the iPhone, as is usually done to use the Face ID method.
- Unlocking via Apple Watch will automatically be activated. We will be notified by tactile feedback and an on-screen prompt.
As these steps are so simple, the situation of Apple Watch unlocking the iPhone can occur without this being our intention. For undo unlock, just tap the “Lock iPhone” button on the Apple Watch screen. In this way, the next time we try to unlock the iPhone later, we will have to write the corresponding code on the iPhone.
Unlock not working? Some solutions
Sometimes it happens that, even if you have followed the steps correctly and made sure that all the requirements are met, unlocking the iPhone through Apple Watch does not work. This error can be due to various causes. Here are some solutions to solve it:
Make sure Apple Watch is unlocked
It is one of the most common errors: we forget to unlock the Apple Watch and, therefore, the method does not work. We will know that our smartwatch is locked when it appears blue padlock icon at the top of the screen. The solution in this case is simple: you just have to enter the code to unlock it.
Turn airplane mode on and off
It is a remedy that often works. By doing this, we will get both the Apple Watch and the iPhone to reconfigure their connections, allowing them to link with each other. To do this, the method is exactly the same on both devices: you have to go to Control Center and click on the airplane icon, which will turn orange. Afterwards, we wait about 15-20 seconds and return to normal mode.
Reboot devices
The classic “turn off and on again” method, which we have used so many times when it comes to electronic devices. A somewhat vulgar but always effective solution.
If, after having tried all of the above, the system to unlock iPhone with Apple Watch does not work, it remains only go to an Apple Store (you have to make an appointment) for help. It is possible that some component of the phone or smart watch needs to be repaired.