How do I set my watch for water protection (2024)

FAQs

How do I set my watch for water protection? ›

Turn on Water lock mode from Quick settings

Silicone oil is key in the waterproofing process because oil and water don't mix and it helps to keep any moisture out. Be sure to use the watch's own mechanism to twist the gasket into place, as this will be much more precise than whatever you can manage by forcing it with your hand.

Using a feature called Water Lock, your Watch (Series 2 or later) will automatically lock its screen if its activity monitor senses that you're swimming or if you tell it you're starting a swimming workout. This is to prevent accidental taps.

Apple Watch Series 2 and later

And if you have Apple Watch Ultra or later, you can have it turn on Water Lock automatically when it's submerged to a depth of 10cm or lower.

If you forget to turn on Water Lock before going into the water, the water resistance of your Apple Watch doesn't change (just your ability to interact with the screen). You can clear the water from the speakers by manually turning Water Lock on and off once you're out of the water.

Open the Workout app on your Apple Watch. Turn the Digital Crown to Open Water Swim or Pool Swim. For Pool Swim workouts, set the pool length, then tap Start. When you're finished, press and hold the Digital Crown to unlock your Apple Watch, tap End, then tap End Workout.

Finding Out How Water Resistant Your Watch Is

You can see the water resistance rating of your watch by taking a look at the dial or case back. If your watch does not say water resistant, it is not. Take it off before washing your hands, and don't wear it out in a rainstorm.

If your watch is rated to 50 meters/5bar or less, it should only be subject to accidental splash; hand washing, dishes, etc. Never submerge it intentionally. If your watch is rated to 100 meters/10bar, it is suitable for surface swimming. If your watch is rated 200 meters/20bar, it is suitable for skin diving.

Turn on Water lock mode from Quick settings

Swim-proof and ready for anything, your watch will work in the pool, the rain, and even in the shower. If you want to prevent accidental touches while you're splashing around, turn on Water lock mode.

However, it's definitely a good idea to turn the water lock on before you go for a swim or otherwise get the watch wet. That's because of what happens when you deactivate the water lock. When it's switched off, the Watch will attempt to eject any water that's seeped into the watch's speaker.

Does a water lock actually work? ›

When Water Lock is on, your Apple Watch doesn't respond to touch on its display. This prevents accidental input while you're in water. When you turn off Water Lock, your watch ejects any water that remains in its speaker.

When water lock is on, your screen and buttons are locked. Notifications and alarms still appear on your tracker, but you must unlock your screen to interact with them. firmly tap your screen twice. To turn off water lock, firmly double-tap the middle of the screen with your finger.

Apple Watch 8

Swipe up. Scroll down. Choose the water drop symbol. Water lock has been turned on.

When should you use Water Lock on Apple Watch? We advise anyone swimming or showering to use the Water Lock if they're wearing their Apple Watches. Otherwise, water drops could launch and mess with installed watchOS apps, or call or message other people.

In the Control Center should be a water drop for turning on the Water Lock. If it is not there, then scroll to the end of the Control Center and tap "Edit", which should allow you to add the Water Lock to the list of Control Center icons.

It is recommended by Apple that when Apple Watch is used in or around water that the user activates water lock mode as this prevents accidental water damage to your Watch.

Apple Watch 8

Swipe up. Scroll down. Choose the water drop symbol. Water lock has been turned on.