Troubleshooting guide
Unlock your Mac with Apple Watch
A fast Apple troubleshooting flow for Unlock your Mac with Apple Watch, built to isolate the most common setup blockers first.
Easy5 minutes4 stepsUpdated daily
Requirements
Have these ready before you begin.
Recent iPhoneRecent MacSame Apple IDWi-Fi and Bluetooth enabled
Step 1
Check the basics
Make sure both devices are signed into the same Apple ID, updated, nearby, and have Wi-Fi plus Bluetooth switched on.
Step 2
Enable the Continuity setting
Open System Settings on your Mac and Settings on your iPhone, then enable the relevant Continuity, AirDrop, Handoff, or mirroring option.
Step 3
Start from the Mac
Open the matching Apple app or control on your Mac, choose your iPhone when prompted, and approve any first-time trust message.
Step 4
Save the shortcut
Once it works, keep the feature in Control Center, Dock, or the Share sheet so you can launch it faster next time.