There are many smartwatches that can be water resistant, but they are rarely completely waterproof. That said, you can safely swim (in fresh water sources) with one that meets the IPX8, IP68 (or higher) rating. But there’s still a risk of damage if the watch isn’t dried after being submerged in water, which is why features like the Apple Watch’s water lock work well. With the water lock activated, the Apple Watch not only turns off the screen so water pressure doesn’t trigger an unintended action, but also drains the water inside the device to dry it quickly.
It’s a useful and streamlined Apple Watch feature that all smartwatches should have, especially those rated as safe to wear while swimming. I use this feature a lot with my Apple Watch Series 11, and I love that it automatically turns on whenever I jump in a pool or go into the ocean. It works while scuba diving and if you have an Apple Watch Ultra, Apple Watch Ultra 2 or Apple Watch Ultra 3, all three of which are safe at great depths (standard Apple Watches are not).
How the Apple Watch water lock works
To manually unlock the water lock, available on all Apple Watch models from Series 2 onwards, press the side button to open Control Center. Select the water drop icon (you may have to scroll down to see it). If the water lock is active, you will not be able to manipulate the watch screen. It just won’t react. Once you’re out of the water, press and hold the Digital Crown to turn on the watch. You’ll see the drain mode start and hear a series of tones, which sound like an ’80s video game, until the process is complete.
What happens to the clock when you do this? It’s very exciting. When you press and hold the button, water comes out of the small hole on the side speaker. There is much more water than you can see or see, as it happens quickly and the droplets and drops of water are very small. The watch pauses to stabilize and takes off again, repeating this cycle over and over again. This is why you should press and hold the Crown for at least a few seconds instead of a quick press. It keeps you from starting this process by mistake.
Why use Water Lock on Apple Watch
When should you use a water lock? It makes no sense to use the water lock feature on the Apple Watch if you are a swimmer or have a swimming pool at home. In fact, you won’t have a choice, as it automatically turns on when you engage in water activities such as swimming or surfing. As an extra precaution, you may want to manually open it using the steps mentioned above for times when your arm is not completely submerged in water, but the watch is still wet. This can happen if you wear it in the shower, while doing the dishes or just while running home in the rain. Using this feature will ensure that any residual water is removed.
What happens if you don’t open the water lock? The watch will probably be fine (assuming it’s a model with a higher water resistance rating), but you run the risk of getting water inside and causing damage in the end. While that water resistance rating gives you the confidence to wear the Apple Watch while swimming or doing other water-based activities, you should be aware that water resistance weakens over time with any device. Keeping as much water out as possible, especially if you swim in a chlorinated pool, can help extend the life of your smartwatch. Next time you go swimming, see if you can hear the water coming out of the side speaker when you press the button. Also consider the complex process that takes place to keep the clock free from moisture inside.
