Other possible reasons include device names that don’t match, problems with saved passwords (keychain issues), old versions of macOS or watchOS, or interference from several saved Wi-Fi networks. Now that you know the causes, let’s discuss the solutions.
1. Check Mac & Apple Watch Compatibility
Compatibility is often the main reason for this issue. To use the auto-unlock feature, both your Apple Watch and Mac need to meet certain requirements: Also, make sure your Apple Watch is close to your Mac when trying to use auto-unlock. To check your Mac’s version:
2. Check Your Connections
Auto-unlock needs both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi to be enabled on your Mac and Apple Watch. If one or both are off, auto-unlock won’t work. If you’re having trouble, check both connections on each device and turn them on if needed.
3. Make Sure Both Devices Are Password-Protected
For security, both your Mac and Apple Watch need to have passcodes set. Follow these steps:
Open the Watch app on your iPhone.Tap the Passcode section and turn it on for your Apple Watch.Set a passcode for your Apple Watch and ensure your Mac has a user account password as well.
Now check if you can unlock your Mac with your Apple Watch.
4. Reboot Your Devices
Software glitches or temporary system issues may interfere with auto-unlock. Restarting both devices can help:
4.1. To Restart Your Mac
4.2. To Restart Your Apple Watch
5. Ensure Both Devices Are Signed Into iCloud with the Same Apple ID
You must be signed into iCloud on both your Mac and Apple Watch using the same Apple ID. Here’s how to check:
5.1. On your Mac
5.2. On your Apple Watch
6. Unpair and Pair Your Apple Watch with the Mac Again
If you’re still having trouble, pairing issues may be to blame. Unpair and re-pair your Apple Watch to your Mac by following these steps: After pairing, enable Auto-Unlock and check if the feature works.
7. Toggle Auto-Unlock Off and On
Sometimes simply toggling the auto-unlock feature off and on fixes the issue.
Restart both your Mac and Apple Watch. After they’ve restarted: Test if the auto-unlock feature is working.
8. Reset Wi-Fi & Bluetooth Connections
Since auto-unlock relies on Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, refreshing these connections can often help:
8.1. On Your Mac
8.2. On Your Apple Watch
9. Disable Auto-Login on Your Mac
Automatic login on your Mac can prevent auto-unlock from working. To turn it off:
10. Disable Internet Sharing and Screen Sharing
Sharing your Mac’s internet or screen can also interfere with auto-unlock. To fix this:
11. Update Both Apple Watch and Mac
If nothing else works, updating your devices can resolve hidden bugs or compatibility issues.
11.1. Update Apple Watch
11.2. Update Mac
The Auto-Unlock feature makes unlocking your Mac fast and easy. When it doesn’t work, it can be quite inconvenient. Thankfully, this guide covers all the main causes and solutions so you can resolve the “Apple Watch Not Unlocking Mac” issue quickly and easily.
