This article will discuss how to fix the Apple watch ultra not unlocking Mac problem. There are a few reasons why this glitch occurs. We will also discuss some fixes for this issue. If you are an Apple user, you might know that there is an auto-unlock feature in Apple tech. If you are wearing an Apple watch and using your Mac, you don’t need to enter the passcode and can directly log into the Mac.
When this feature was initially released, many people appreciated Apple for this feature. Although, some complained about Security and how this auto-unlock will affect the security of their MacBooks. While this feature seems very simple but in real life, it will make your life a lot more accessible and more straightforward.
This auto-unlock feature works most of the time and is quite fast too. Sometimes due to technical glitches, it won’t work or malfunction. Apple introduced this feature for watches running watchOS+ and Mac running macOS Sierra+. There are many other requirements to use the auto-unlock feature.
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Fix Apple Watch Ultra Not Unlocking Mac
Before we get into the main article, let’s discuss the requirements for using the Auto-unlock feature:
- Your Mac (mid-2013 or later) with macOS 10.13 or later can use Auto-unlock.
- Apple Watch should run WatchOS 3 or later versions.
- You must wear the watch, and it should be near the Mac.
- Wifi and Bluetooth both have to be enabled on both devices.
- Your Apple ID should have two-factor verification.
- You have to set a password for both of your devices.
- The same iCloud should be signed-in on both devices.
These are some requirements for using the Auto-unlock feature. If the feature is not working as intended, try one of the fixes below to make it work again:
Method 1: Reset Bluetooth and Wi-Fi Connections
The Auto-unlock feature uses Bluetooth and Wifi. The feature might stop working if there is a glitch or error in either of them. So, try to reset Bluetooth and Wifi connections and check if it resolves the issue. In order to reset these connections, follow the steps below:
To reset Bluetooth and Wifi connection on Mac:
- Open your device and tap on Bluetooth or Wifi icon.
- Please turn it off and then turn it back on.
- This will reset the Bluetooth and Wifi connection.
Check if the issue is resolved; if not, move to the next fix.
To reset Bluetooth and Wifi on Apple Watch:
- Open the App view by tapping on Digital Crown.
- Now find the settings app and tap on it to open.
- Please scroll down to Wifi and turn it off and on.
- Go back and tap on the Bluetooth icon.
- Turn Bluetooth off and on.
Method 2: Disable and Enable the Auto-unlock feature
Most of the time, the issue is fixed when you turn it off and on. To do this, follow the steps below:
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- Open your Mac and click on the Apple logo on the top right.
- Click on System preferences.
- Now select Security and Privacy.
- Under Security and Privacy, go to the general tab.
- Now, uncheck the box next to “Use your Apple Watch to unlock apps and your Mac.”
- Restart both devices.
- Follow the same steps above but check the box beside “Use your Apple Watch to unlock apps and your Mac.”
- Check if the issue is resolved.
Method 3: Disable the Automatic Login feature on your Mac
If you are using the Auto-unlock feature for the first time, then you might not know that if the Automatic login feature is enabled, you won’t be able to use the Auto-unlock feature. To disable the Automatic Login feature, follow the steps below:
- Open your Mac and click on the Apple logo on the top right.
- Click on System preferences.
- Now click on Users and Groups.
- Click on the yellow lock icon on the bottom left.
- You will be prompted to enter your Mac password.
- Now click on the Login options at the bottom.
- Disable Automatic Login and restart your Mac.
Method 4: Update Apple Watch and Mac
Always remember to keep our devices updated to the latest versions. To update your Mac, follow the steps below:
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- Open your Mac and click on the Apple logo on the top right.
- Click on System preferences.
- Click on Software Update.
The updates will be automatically checked and installed if available.
Method 5: Disable Internet Sharing and Screen Sharing
If Internet sharing and screen sharing are turned on, the auto-unlock feature won’t work. To disable it, follow the steps below:
- Open your Mac and click on the Apple logo on the top right.
- Click on System preferences. Click on Sharing.
- Now, check if Internet sharing and screen sharing are disabled.
Conclusion
The auto-unlock feature is handy in day-to-day life and is used by everyone. These glitches are very common and usually occur when new updates roll out. With this article, we hope we have helped you fix the issue. If you have any queries, please comment below.