Read and reply to messages with your Apple Watch

Apple Watch gives you a gentle tap to let you know when you have a new message. Just raise your wrist to read it and reply.

Read a message

To open Messages, press the Digital Crown to see all your apps, then tap the Messages app . You can also open Messages from the Dock.

If you get a notification about a message, raise your wrist to see it or swipe down on the watch face.

Reply to a message

To reply, scroll to the end of a message, then choose an option. With the latest versions of watchOS and iOS, you can send a preset reply, use Scribble, record a response, and more.

Preset replies like Hello, What's up, and on my way.

To use preset replies, scroll down to the end of the message, then tap a reply. You can also create your own replies.

To send an emoji, tap the Emoji button , then turn the Digital Crown to see more options. Tap to send.

Handwritten notes, like thank you.

To send a handwritten message or sticker, tap the Emoji button , scroll down, then tap Stickers. To use a different message or sticker, use Messages on your iPhone.

"Sounds good. Do you have any ideas" message.

To record a message, tap the Microphone button , say something, then tap Send or Done. If you want to send the message as text instead of audio, change your settings in the Apple Watch app on your iPhone.

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Tap the Scribble button to write letters or words on the display and let your Apple Watch turn them into text. Learn about Scribble.

Options to Reply, Send Location, See Details, or Choose a language.

To show where you are on a map, firmly press the display while you're viewing a conversation, then tap Send Location.

Heart drawing

To reply with a Digital Touch, tap the Digital Touch button , then you can send a sketch, tap, your heartbeat, and more.

Heart tapback

To use a Tapback, double-tap a message, then tap to choose a Tapback, like thumbs-up or a heart.

Send a new message

You can ask Siri to create a message for you. For example, ask Siri to "Tell Johnny I’ll be there in 20 minutes." Then lower your wrist to send. You can also use these steps:

Press the Digital Crown to open the Home screen, then tap the Messages app .
Firmly press the display, then tap New Message.
Tap Add Contact. You can tap a contact in the list that appears, tap the Plus button to see more contacts, tap the Microphone button to search for someone or dictate a phone number, or tap the Keypad button to enter a phone number.
Create your message.