One such example is the Watch Unlock feature, which was first shown off at CES 2023 before rolling out in late 2023.
With Watch Unlock set up, you’re now able to quickly unlock your Pixel phone without needing to use your fingerprint or passcode.
Provided that your Pixel phone and Pixel Watch are connected via Bluetooth, unlocking your phone is as simple as “swiping up on the lock screen or tapping a notification.
Tap Watch Unlock.
When it comes to functionality, there isn’t a difference between the two, but the same can’t be said when compared to Watch Unlock.
While that’s technically true, the reality is that Watch Unlock is a more secure solution.
As for Watch Unlock, Google states that “your watch must be on” and “paired to your phone’s Bluetooth.”
And, if rumors are to be believed, Watch Unlock could soon be in store for an upgrade.
In terms of adding features and updating Wear OS, Google has been moving very quickly. A prime example of this is the Watch Unlock function, which debuted at CES 2023 and will be available in late 2023.
You can now rapidly unlock your Pixel phone without using a passcode or fingerprint by configuring Watch Unlock. Rather, the feature functions more or less like the old Smart Lock feature.
Unlocking your Pixel phone is as easy as “swiping up on the lock screen or tapping a notification,” assuming that your Pixel watch and phone are linked via Bluetooth. It even functions when your fingerprint is not detected.
How to make Watch Unlock active.
1. On your phone, launch the Watch app.
2. After swiping down, select Watch Preferences.
3. Press Security.
4. Press the “Watch Unlock” button.
5. Enter the password or PIN on your phone when prompted.
6. Locate the Confirm button by scrolling to the bottom of the page.
7. You’ll be prompted to set up a screen lock on your watch if you haven’t already. Simply take the instructions as shown on your Pixel Watch’s screen.
8. After finishing, press the Done button.
What distinguishes this from extend unlock?
As an Android user, Smart Lock has been one of the best features for years. Google started renaming the feature in 2023; as a result, it is now known as “Extend Unlock.”. Not much separates the two in terms of functionality, but the same cannot be said about Watch Unlock.
In order for Extend Unlock to keep your phone unlocked, it must meet one of three criteria. Among them are trusted devices, trusted places, and on-body detection. Although the first two are fairly self-explanatory, Trusted devices might seem a bit unnecessary.
Though technically correct, Watch Unlock is actually a more secure option. The only prerequisite for Extend Unlock with Trusted devices to function is that your smartwatch must be linked and within Bluetooth range. If that’s the case, you can keep your Android phone unlocked for up to four hours.
With regard to Watch Unlock, Google notes that both “your watch and your phone’s Bluetooth need to be paired.”. Your phone needs to have biometrics or a passcode enabled in order to increase security. You won’t be able to configure or use Watch Unlock with your devices if you don’t.
There is a big impact from small changes.
It’s intriguing to see what Google is bringing to Wear OS, even though some of the other best smartwatches already have comparable features. Furthermore, Watch Unlock might soon get an update if rumors about it are to be believed. It was recently revealed that Google is developing the idea of using ultra-wideband (UWB) connectivity instead of Bluetooth.
