10 Everyday Apple Watch Features You Can Start Using Today [Video]

As an Apple Watch enthusiast since the very first Series 0, witnessing its transformation into the robust device it is now has been truly exciting. It’s essentially a wellness hub worn on the wrist that seamlessly integrates with the entire Apple Ecosystem. Every day, I utilize it for various tasks, whether it’s closing my activity rings, managing smart home devices, or unlocking my other Apple gadgets. Having it on my wrist significantly simplifies my daily life. Here are ten features you can easily start using!

Before we dive in, it’s worth noting that all the discussed features are compatible with every current Apple Watch model that runs WatchOS 11. If you’re contemplating an upgrade, check out Amazon for discounted Apple Watches!

Also, don’t miss our comprehensive video showcasing more than 20 Apple Watch functionalities!

Unlocking Your Mac with Apple Watch

This feature stands out as one of the most impressive integrations within the Apple ecosystem. I’d even argue it saves you money since it eliminates the need for an Apple keyboard with Touch ID. Just use your Apple Watch for biometric unlocking, and it’s incredibly simple.

• Ensure both your Mac and Watch are logged into the same Apple ID.
• Enable a passcode on your Apple Watch.
• On your Mac, go to System Settings > Login Password and check the box for your Apple Watch.
• Now, whenever you need to enter your Mac’s password, your Apple Watch will unlock it for you.

Using Apple Watch as a Camera Remote

A frequent feature I rely on is the Camera Remote app available on the Apple Watch. For years, I’ve utilized it on my YouTube channel to frame my shots using the iPhone camera. The Camera Remote app has several handy functions:

• Viewfinder
• Zoom control via the digital crown
• Countdown timer
• Double tap gesture to engage (available on Series 9 and newer & Ultra 2)
• Video recording capability
• Seamless switching between selfie and standard cameras

Finding My iPhone

Does anyone else overuse this feature? It’s an old function that has recently been updated, significantly enhancing its usability. As the name suggests, this feature allows you to locate a misplaced iPhone, provided it remains connected to your Apple Watch. It’s particularly useful for locating your phone around the house or a public space. Access it through the control center on your Watch and just tap the ping button (illustrated below) to make your iPhone emit a loud sound. The latest update includes the AirTag FindMy interface, making it easier than ever to identify your phone’s location!

AppleTV Remote Application

A regular part of my routine is the Apple TV remote app. As long as you’re connected to the same Wi-Fi, you can manage the Apple TV just as you would with the physical remote or the remote app on your iPhone. It’s a dedicated app on the Watch, and I genuinely appreciate its user-friendly interface, especially the inclusion of the digital crown for volume control. It’s a must-have in my living room!

Good Morning and Alarm Features

I’m not entirely sure how to categorize this feature, but I appreciate it greatly. It syncs with your sleep schedule and focus modes. Personally, I’ve configured a sleep focus mode that activates automatically at 10:30 PM, with an alarm set for 6:30 AM. I even wear my Apple Watch to track my sleep data. The first notable aspect is that when you have an alarm set while wearing the Apple Watch, instead of your iPhone blaring a loud noise, the Watch will gently vibrate to wake you. I love this feature as it’s far less disruptive and doesn’t disturb anyone else nearby.

The second fantastic element is that once the alarm is dismissed, a beautiful good morning screen appears showing the temperature, weather, time, date, and battery percentage. While this information also appears on your iPhone, I find the version on my Apple Watch visually more appealing.

The best part? There is no need for extra setup; it operates automatically with the sleep schedule and focus mode settings.

Using Your Watch as a Tesla Key

This feature is somewhat specialized, intended for Tesla owners. With the Tesla app, your Apple Watch can function as your car key, allowing you to execute common tasks like pre-heating, unlocking the trunk, and locking/unlocking the vehicle. The standout feature, in my opinion, is using it as an actual key to enter and start the car, thus eliminating the need to carry around your phone or keycard. Additionally, there are useful watch complications available for Tesla owners that enhance the overall experience.

Taking Screenshots on Apple Watch

This feature comes in handy for me frequently, especially when composing articles like this. Many folks don’t realize how simple it is: just press the digital crown and the side button simultaneously – not the action button – to capture a screenshot. The image will appear in your iPhone’s photo library within about five seconds.

Unlocking Your iPhone with Apple Watch

This functionality differs from unlocking your Mac with the watch, as it’s generally not the primary method for unlocking your phone, but it’s still incredibly useful. To enable this feature:

• Ensure both your iPhone and Watch are linked to the same Apple ID.
• A passcode must be activated on your Apple Watch.
• Access settings on your iPhone.
• Scroll to Face ID & Passcode.
• Locate the Apple Watch section.
• Toggle the feature on.

A caveat: this feature is essentially a backup for when Face ID struggles to recognize you, perhaps due to a mask, sunglasses, or face paint. In such cases, after the iPhone attempts to use Face ID, it will turn to your Apple Watch for secondary authentication and unlock seamlessly, without any notifications on your end.

Palm Mute Feature

Another handy functionality I use regularly is palm muting. This feature lets you completely silence notifications or alarms simply by placing your palm over the watch’s display. If an alarm is sounding or a call comes in, covering the screen with your palm silences it instantly. This applies to any haptic or audible alerts, providing a quick way to manage interruptions.

Sleep and Fitness Tracking

I rely on these features daily. Since Apple introduced sleep tracking, I’ve been wearing my Apple Watch to monitor my sleep. Yes, even as an owner of the Apple Watch Ultra, which is a bit bulkier; it only took me about three nights to adjust after transitioning from a Series 5 watch. One of the best aspects of Apple’s sleep tracking system is the absence of a “score.” It presents you with the data, allowing you to assess the quality of your sleep on your own. Unlike other sleep trackers that assign scores from 0 to 100, I appreciate Apple’s straightforward approach.

Fitness tracking is a whole subject of its own, but I simply want to say that I log every workout, run, and walk, and analyzing the trend data is my absolute favorite part.

Final Thoughts

The Apple Watch Ultra, for me, has been a game changer. It addresses multiple minor issues I didn’t even realize needed solutions until it streamlined my daily routine. For me, the Apple Watch is likely the one Apple product I genuinely can’t imagine living without due to its frequent application in both everyday tasks and active usage.

What are your thoughts on the Apple Watch? Which model do you own? How do you integrate it into your daily routine? Let’s converse in the comments below!