Can You Unlock iPhone with Apple Watch? Complete Guide & Fixes

Samuel Spenser Published on August 11, 2026Unlock iOS3-min reading

When Face ID fails to recognize your face because you are wearing a mask, sunglasses, or other accessories, unlocking your iPhone becomes inconvenient. Fortunately, Apple provides a feature that helps you unlock iPhone with Apple Watch. However, this feature only works under specific conditions. Read on to learn the requirements, steps and solutions for common Apple Watch unlock issues!

Part 1: Check Requirements Before Unlocking iPhone with Apple Watch

Not all iPhone models can unlock with Apple Watch. You need to know the requirements of the device and system before unlocking! And check out these settings to ensure you can unlock your iPhone with Apple Watch successfully!

Device and System Requirements

• An iPhone X or later running iOS 14.5 or later.
• An Apple Watch Series 3 or later running watchOS 7.4 or later.
• Both devices signed in with the same Apple ID with two-factor authentication enabled.
• iPhone has already enabled Face ID.

Ensure These Settings

• The iPhone and Apple Watch must be paired with both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi enabled. They do not need to be connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
• Your Apple Watch must have a passcode. Remember to turn on the Wrist Detection.
• Enable Unlock with Apple Watch feature on your iPhone.
• The Apple Watch must be worn on your wrist and unlocked.
• Keep your iPhone and Apple Watch close to each other.

How to Enable Unlock with Apple Watch

Part 2: How to Unlock iPhone with Apple Watch

How Does Unlock iPhone with Apple Watch Work

When you wear a mask, sunglasses, or other accessories that partially cover your face, your iPhone first attempts to verify your identity through Face ID. If Face ID fails, your iPhone checks whether a paired Apple Watch is nearby, unlocked, and being worn on your wrist. Once all requirements are met, your iPhone will unlock automatically, and your Apple Watch will provide haptic feedback to confirm the successful unlock.

Steps to Unlock iPhone with Apple Watch

Part 3: Common Fixes: If Unlock with Apple Watch Not Working

Unlock with Apple Watch Feature Cannot Be Enabled.

• Make sure that your devices' version can meet the requirements.
• Repair the iPhone with the Apple Watch.
• Check whether Wrist Detection is enabled on your Apple Watch. Go to Settings, tap Passcode, and turn on Wrist Detection.

Unlock with Apple Watch Feature Enabled but Fails to Unlock iPhone.

• Check whether your devices are too far apart.
• Restart both your iPhone and Apple Watch.
• Turn off the Bluetooth and then open it again.

Unlocking Succeeds Intermittently.

• Fix software issues: Update your iPhone and Apple Watch to the latest system versions.
• Make sure your watch isn't worn too loosely – if too loose, it might not be detected.
• Verify that no other wireless devices are causing interference with the unlock process.

Part 4: Other Ways to Unlock iPhone Without Passcode

Is there another way to unlock an iPhone without entering a passcode? Absolutely! Apple offers several unlocking features that allow you unlock your iPhone easily while you're wearing a mask or glasses.

Use Touch ID

If your iPhone has Touch ID enabled, this is the fastest method to unlock your iPhone without a passcode. However, after your iPhone has been restarted or remained locked for more than 48 hours, you must type your passcode to re-enable Touch ID.

How to set up Touch ID on your iPhone:

Use Face ID with a Mask

If it is inconvenient for you to take off your mask or your Touch ID is not working, using Face ID with a Mask is a good option. This feature is available on iPhone 12 and newer models running iOS 15.4 or later. It can identify your unique facial features around the eyes to verify your identity, so you can unlock your iPhone without taking off your mask.

How to set up Face ID with a Mask:

Use imyPass iPassGo

What if you forgot your iPhone passcode, your iPhone is disabled, or Face ID and Touch ID are unavailable? In these situations, Apple Watch cannot help unlock your device. Don't worry! That's when you need a professional iOS unlock tool! imyPass iPassGo helps unlock your disabled iPhone and regain access to your iPhone, iPad, and iPod models with ease. With a simple interface and step-by-step guidance, you can unlock your device without any technical skills!

You can use it to get rid of all kinds of locks in easy 3 steps!

Conclusion

When a mask blocks Face ID, using Apple Watch to unlock your iPhone is simple and convenient. However, if Face ID and Touch ID are both unavailable and you've forgotten your passcode, a professional iPhone unlocking tool like imyPass iPassGo can make a difference. With this tool, you can easily bypass the lock screen and unlock your iPhone in no time!