Apple Watch works in tandem with the iPhone. It uses both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi to sync data and stream media from the iPhone (and now, directly using Apple Watch apps). Unless you’ve got the Cellular model, Wi-Fi plays a huge role in how Apple Watch works in delivering notifications and running apps.
In fact, for some apps, and notifications, you can continue using your Apple Watch even if it’s disconnected from Apple Watch. If you’re out and about, and you’ve already connected to a Wi-Fi network using your iPhone, the Apple Watch will automatically connect to it, even if you don’t have your iPhone nearby. This should keep your Apple Watch connected when you’re in your home, office or your favorite coffee shop.
When you’re connected to Wi-Fi on your Apple Watch you can do a lot. You can talk to Siri, send messages, even make phone calls.
Read more: watchOS 5: All the New and Hidden watchOS 5 Features
How to See if Apple Watch is Connected to Wi-Fi
Apple Watch’s connection status can be viewed in the Control Center. On the top-left corner on the Control Center, you’ll see symbols that let you know about your Apple Watch’s connection status.
Green iPhone Icon: This means that your Apple Watch is connected with your iPhone, either with Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.
Red iPhone Icon: This means that your Apple Watch is disconnected from your iPhone. It can’t reach your iPhone via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.
Blue Wi-Fi Icon: This means that your iPhone isn’t nearby but your iPhone is connected to the Internet using a Wi-Fi network. If you want to know if your Apple Watch is currently connected to Wi-Fi, this is the icon you need to look out for.
How to Toggle Wi-Fi on Your Apple Watch
You also have control over your Apple Watch’s Wi-Fi connection. In the Control Center, you’ll see a Wi-Fi icon. Tap on it to enable or disable Wi-Fi.
Wi-Fi in Settings
There’s a Wi-Fi section in Settings which gives you specific control over which Wi-Fi network to use. When your iPhone isn’t nearby and you’ve got multiple networks nearby, this can be really helpful.
It’s important to note here at Apple Watch’s Wi-Fi capabilities are fairly limited compared to the iPhone. Apple Watch can only connect to 802.11b/g/n 2.4GHz networks. 5GHz networks aren’t supported.
On your Apple Watch, press the Digital Crown to get to the App Launcher. Open the Settings app, go to Wi-Fi and select an available network. If your iPhone isn’t nearby, you can even log in to a new Wi-Fi network directly from your Apple Watch (by typing in the password).
Do You Use Your Apple Watch Without Your iPhone?
Do you go out for runs or walks, leaving behind your iPhone? Share with us in the comments below.
