Is Apple Watch Waterproof?
Curious about taking your Apple Watch for a swim? You’re not alone in wondering about its waterproof capabilities. Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast or love a good tech gadget, the question of water resistance is key. With various Apple Watch models on the market, each boasting different features, it’s essential to know what you’re dealing with.
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Is Apple Watch Waterproof?
Apple Watches are water resistant, but not waterproof. This means they can withstand some exposure to water, but they are not designed to be submerged for extended periods or exposed to high-pressure water.
Here’s a breakdown of the water-resistance capabilities of different Apple Watch models:
- Apple Watch Series 2 and later (excluding Ultra): Suitable for shallow-water activities like swimming in a pool or ocean. It is not recommended for diving, water skiing, or activities involving high-velocity water.
- Apple Watch Ultra:Â Can be used for high-speed water sports and recreational scuba diving up to 40 meters.
- Apple Watch Series 1 and original Apple Watch:Â Splash- and water-resistant, but submerging them is not recommended.
Can you swim with an Apple Watch?
Yes, you can swim with an Apple Watch Series 2 or later (excluding Ultra) but with limitations. It’s important to understand that they are water resistant for shallow-water activities like swimming in a pool or ocean. Here’s what you need to keep in mind:
- It is not recommended for Diving, water skiing, or activities involving high-velocity water.
- Apple Watch Ultra:Â Offers additional water resistance and can be used for high-speed water sports and recreational scuba diving up to 40 meters.
- Apple Watch Series 1 and original Apple Watch:Â Not suitable for swimming.
Before swimming with your Apple Watch:
- Ensure you have the appropriate model:Â Only Series 2 and later (excluding Ultra) are suitable.
- Use a water-resistant band: Not all bands are water-resistant, so check the material before swimming.
- Rinse it thoroughly with clean, fresh water after swimming in saltwater.
How to eject water out of your Apple Watch?
To eject water from your Apple Watch, especially if you have a Series 2 or later model, you can use the Water Lock feature. This feature not only prevents your screen from activating while in water but also expels any water that has gotten into the speaker cavity once you turn it off. Here’s how you can use it:
1. Start a Water-based Activity
For Apple Watch Series 2 and later, the Water Lock automatically activates when you start a water-based workout, such as swimming. If you’re going into the water without starting a workout, you can activate Water Lock manually.
2. Manually Enable Water Lock (if not in a water-based workout):
- Swipe up from the bottom of the watch face to open the Control Center.
- Look for the Water Lock icon, which resembles a water droplet.
- Tap the Water Lock icon to activate it. This locks your screen to prevent accidental taps.
3. Eject Water from Your Apple Watch:
- Once you’re out of the water, turn the Digital Crown on the side of your Apple Watch. This doesn’t need to be a forceful turn.
- Keep turning the Digital Crown until a series of tones plays. The sound waves generated by these tones help eject water trapped in the speaker.
- You’ll see an on-screen prompt indicating that your Apple Watch is unlocking.
- Continue turning the Digital Crown until the prompt says your watch is unlocked, and water has been ejected from the speaker.
Tips for Using Apple Watch in Water
Here are some tips for using your Apple Watch in water:
Before swimming:
- Check your model: Only Apple Watch Series 2 and later (excluding Ultra) are suitable for swimming.
- Choose a water-resistant band: Not all bands are water-resistant. Opt for a fluoroelastomer or nylon band for swimming.
- Enable Water Lock:Â This prevents accidental taps on the display while you’re in the water. You can activate it by swiping up from the bottom of the screen and tapping the water droplet icon.
- Start a swimming workout: This optimizes your watch for tracking your swimming activity. Choose “Pool Swim” for laps in a pool or “Open Water Swim” for swimming in lakes or oceans.
While swimming:
- Use the side button and Digital Crown:Â The touchscreen might not work reliably underwater due to water droplets.
- Be mindful of depth:Â While Apple Watch Series 2 and later are water resistant, they are not suitable for deep diving or high-pressure environments.
- Avoid soap and shampoo:Â Rinse your watch with clean, fresh water after swimming in saltwater.
After swimming:
- Unlock your watch:Â Press and hold the Digital Crown until it displays “Unlocked.” This also helps eject any water trapped in the speaker.
- Rinse your watch with clean, fresh water:Â Remove any soap residue or saltwater.
- Dry your watch thoroughly:Â Use a soft, lint-free cloth to dry the watch and band. Don’t use heat or compressed air.
Is it safe to swim with an Apple Watch?
Yes, it is safe to swim with the Apple Watch Series 2 or newer in pools or open water. It is water-resistant up to 50 meters.
Do I need to enable Water Lock before swimming?
It is recommended to enable a Water Lock through the Control Center before swimming to prevent accidental touches on the screen.
Can I wear my Apple Watch while diving?
For deep water activities like diving, consider the Apple Watch Ultra. The Series 2 and newer are ideal for swimming, not deep-water sports.
How do I eject water from my Apple Watch after swimming?
To eject water post-activity, hold down the Digital Crown to help drain any water that may have entered the watch.
How can I enhance my Apple Watch knowledge?
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Hi, I’m Adam Finley—just a tech fan who’s crazy about Apple stuff. I write about the cool things Apple’s up to and help out with problems on my websites. Ever had an issue with your Apple gear? I’ve got your back with easy fixes and step-by-step guides. I’m all about making tech simple and sharing the good vibes of using Apple devices.