The iPhone offers various ways to unlock: Face ID, Touch ID, a four- or six-digit numeric code or a password.
In addition, the manufacturer offers another unlocking method for the Apple Watch if Face ID does not recognize the hidden face.
Everything you need for it: An iPhone with Face ID support and at least iOS 14.5 and an Apple Watch with watchOS 7.4.
Before the start
If the above-mentioned requirements are met, you can basically get started as soon as we have explained the information you need to follow.
The Apple Watch must be connected to the iPhone as well as being unlocked on the wrist. Additionally, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth must be enabled on the smartphone and smartwatch so that identity verification can be performed between the two devices.
Activating wrist detection is also a requirement.
In addition, access to the Apple Watch must be protected with a password. We'll show you how to protect your Apple Smartwatch with a code in the next step.
Unlock iPhone with Apple Watch in just a few steps
As mentioned in the previous section, in order to unlock the iPhone via Apple Watch, the smartwatch must be password protected.
This is how you set a password for the Apple Watch:
- Press the side crown of the Apple Watch (Digital Crown).
- Opens the settings.
- Scroll down to “Code” and tap “Activate Code”. You can optionally select a simple four-digit code.
After the smartwatch has been provided with a numerical code,can in the next step Unlocking the iPhone can be activated with the Apple Watch:
- Opens Settings on the iPhone.
- Scroll down and select “Face ID & Code” and then enter the device password.
- Scroll down and check the box for “Unlock with Apple Watch” → “Apple Watch byName«
- There is a brief reference to the application and the requirements mentioned above. This must be confirmed.
Test the alternative unlocking method via Apple Watch: Hold your hand in front of your face so that Face ID doesn't recognize you. The Apple Watch should then provide haptic feedback and unlock the iPhone.
The next time you wear a mask or other covering that doesn't allow reliable recognition via Face ID, the Apple Watch will come to your aid.
Further tips in the Apple cosmos can be found here:
Have you already tried this unlocking method and found it to be good or have you deactivated it a long time ago? Which unlocking method on the iPhone do you prefer, Face ID or Touch ID? Do you want more alternatives to unlocking your iPhone in the future or do you think the current options are sufficient? Feel free to write them to us in the comments below!
