How to Enable Screenshots on Apple Watch (watchOS 8 Update)

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Apple Watch screenshot not working? Because the same command to take a screenshot also manually pauses and resumes workouts, this Apple Watch setting is disabled by default. Don't worry, there's an easy workaround! We'll show you how to enable screenshots on Apple Watch.

Related: Apple Watch Won’t Update? Here’s How to Fix It.

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Why You'll Love This Tip

• Enable Apple Watch screenshots as a quick way to save needed information.
• Capture and send Apple Watch Workout screenshots to friends as a fun way to compare progress. 

How to Turn On Apple Watch Screenshots

Ever since watchOS 3 this setting has been disabled by default. So whether you have a new Apple Watch or have recently updated and are now having issues, you likely just need to re-enable Apple Watch screenshots. Here's how to enable screenshots on Apple Watch. 

1. Open the Watch app on your iPhone.
   
   
    
2. Tap General.
   
   
    
3. Scroll down and tap the Enable Screenshots toggle to turn it on.
   
   
    
4. When the toggle is green, Apple watch screenshots are enabled.
   
   

Once this is enabled, you'll be able to take a screenshot on your Apple Watch. However, the downside of this is that any time you pause or resume a workout using the side buttons, you'll also take a screenshot. To avoid this, follow the steps in the section below to use Auto-Pause instead.

How to Enable the Apple Watch Workout Auto-Pause Setting

Now, let's adjust your Workout settings to enable the Auto-Pause feature. Once you do, your Apple Watch Workout will automatically pause when you stop moving and resume your Workout when you continue moving. Not only is this super convenient, it also stops you from taking screenshots each time you start or stop your workout. To turn this feature on:

1. Open the Watch app on your iPhone.
   
   
    
2. Scroll down and tap Workout. 
   
   
    
3. Tap Auto-Pause.
   
   
    
4. Tap the Auto-Pause toggle to enable it. When the toggle is green, Auto-Pause is enabled.
   
   

Of course, you can leave this Workout setting off and still take screenshots. Just remember that each time you manually pause or resume your Workout by clicking the Side button and Digital Crown button, you’ll also take a screenshot.