Setting passcode restrictions for an Apple Watch

If you have passcode restrictions enforced on an iPhone using a configuration profile, Mobile Device Management (MDM), or Exchange policy, learn how this restriction applies to Apple Watch.

Passcode restrictions

If you're a device administrator, you should be aware of the following rules when setting up passcode restrictions. The restrictions you set can also affect an Apple Watch when it's paired to a managed iPhone.

Numeric passcodes

Apple Watch supports numeric passcodes. If your restrictions allow numeric passcodes, Apple Watch respects other passcode restrictions that you've set.

For example, if your users are required to set an iPhone passcode of at least 6 digits with no repeating digits, they must create an Apple Watch passcode that also meets those requirements. It's a good idea to use a different passcode than the one used on the iPhone. 

Alphanumeric or complex passcodes

If you've set up restrictions that require a passcode using letters or special characters on an iPhone, you can't set a passcode on the Apple Watch. Instead, your users must unlock their iPhone to unlock their Apple Watch. 

Learn more

If you've forgotten your iPhone or Apple Watch passcode, see these articles instead:

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