How to Set a Passcode on the Apple Watch

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A passcode on an Apple Watch works a bit differently than a passcode on an iPhone. On an iPhone, you have to enter the code or use Face ID or Touch ID every time the screen turns off. But it would be super annoying if you had to enter the password on your Apple Watch each time you lifted your wrist—no one would use one if that were the case. A passcode on an Apple Watch is only asked for when your Apple Watch restarts and when you’ve removed the watch from your wrist and put it back on. That’s why this Apple Watch feature is an effective privacy measure, and not so inconvenient that users won’t bother setting a passcode. Here's how to set a passcode on your Apple Watch.

Related: 15 Apple Watch Tips That’ll Make You A Pro

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How to Set a Passcode on an Apple Watch

We've already gone over how to set a six-digit iPhone passcode, as well as how to change your iPhone passcode to an alphanumeric password. Now, let's cover how to protect your Apple Watch with a passcode. *Note* Be sure not to forget this passcode, or you'll need to reset your Apple Watch and pair it with your iPhone again. 

1. Open the Watch app on your iPhone and select the My Watch tab.
2. Tap Passcode.
3. Tap Turn Passcode On.
   
   
    
4. On your Apple Watch, enter your new passcode. Re-enter your new passcode.
   
   

Now, your passcode is set.