Auto Unlock gives you instant access to your Mac when wearing your Apple Watch. Just wake up your Mac and you’re ready to go—without typing a password.
The first time you log in after you turn on or restart your Mac, log in by entering your password manually. After that, Apple Watch logs in for you.
Auto Unlock works when you're wearing your watch and are very close to your Mac. If necessary, move your watch a little closer.
Set up Auto Unlock
Make sure that your Apple Watch is using watchOS 3, and your mid-2013 or newer Mac model is using macOS Sierra. For details, see the Continuity system requirements.
Make sure that your Apple ID is using two-factor authentication instead of two-step verification. Learn more.
Make sure that your devices are set up as follows:
- Your Mac has both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi turned on.
- Your Mac and Apple Watch are signed in to iCloud with the same Apple ID.
On your Mac, choose Apple menu () > System Preferences, then click iCloud.
On your iPhone, open the Apple Watch app, then go to General > Apple ID.
- Your Apple Watch is using a passcode.
On your iPhone, open the Apple Watch app, then tap Passcode.
- Your Mac has ”Allow your Apple Watch to unlock your Mac” selected in Security & Privacy preferences.
Choose Apple menu > System Preferences, click Security & Privacy, then select the General tab.
