How to use your Apple Watch to unlock your Mac

Introduction:

Macs are great, but they're not exactly the most secure devices in the world. They're especially vulnerable when you're away from them and someone else has access to them. With a simple setting change on your Apple Watch, you can make sure that your Mac is always locked when you're not using it. We'll show you how to set it up and how to use it.

PREPARE YOUR MAC

For a while now, you’ve been able to use your Apple Watch to unlock your iPhone – and now, that feature is coming to your Mac. But don’t worry, it’s not as complicated as it sounds. In order to use your watch to unlock your Mac, both devices need to be connected to the same iCloud account and they need to be close enough to one another that your watch can communicate with your Mac. Also, make sure that your Mac is a model from mid-2013 or later and that it’s running macOS Sierra or later – if it’s not, the feature won’t work. If you’re still not sure, you can check the year of your Mac by clicking on the Apple icon in the top-right corner of your screen and selecting About This Mac. Finally, make sure that both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi are enabled on both devices.

PREPARE YOUR MAC

First, make sure you're logged into iCloud using the same Apple ID on both your watch and Mac. Next, check what version of watchOS you're running. You can do this on your wrist: Navigate to Settings > General > About. Make sure you've enabled two-factor authentication for your Apple ID. Okay, now you're ready to set up your Watch. If you're running watchOS 6 or earlier: Head to System Preferences on your Mac, Click Security & Privacy, in the "General" tab, check the "Allow Access When Locked" box next to "Wristwatch." Now click the "Keychain" tab. Under "Keychains," select "iCloud." Click "Access Control" and switch on "Apple Watch."

APPROVE APP REQUESTS

If you're running watchOS 6 or later, you also have the option of approving app requests. This means that whenever an app requires authentication, you'll just have to double-click the side button of your Apple Watch. This includes requests like unlocking preferences, viewing passwords, and approving app installations. It's a great way to keep your information safe and secure—and it's super convenient, too!

Conclusion:

Using your Apple Watch to unlock your Mac is a convenient way to keep your devices in sync and make sure you're never without your Mac. With just a few simple steps, you can be up to speed on how to use your Apple Watch to unlock your Mac.