This article may contain affiliate links. Learn more on our Partner Program page.
watchOS 7 has some cool features built into it, including handwashing detection. The feature couldn't come at a better time. Here's how to enable it.
Apple has integrated a feature in watchOS 7 that enables the Apple Watch to detect hand washing and to record. In times like these with COVID-19, it is more important than ever to wash your hands thoroughly. Unfortunately, not everyone takes this seriously - apart from COVID-19, hand washing should always be taken seriously. But Apple did not develop this feature in response to the ongoing corona pandemic; it started working on it several years ago. The timing of the release is actually just a coincidence. The company explained this in an interview some time ago.
How exactly does the handwashing feature work in watchOS 7?
The Apple Watch will automatically detect whether the user is washing their hands under the new operating system. If this is the case, the popular computer watch will let a timer run down for 20 seconds. This is the time recommended by the World Health Organization. If the wearer stops washing their hands before the timer runs out, the Apple Watch will politely ask for the user to repeat the process more thoroughly. But how exactly does the Apple Watch detect this? According to the Cupertino-based company, the smartwatch needs three important characteristicsWhile the accelerometer responds to the specific pattern of hand washing, i.e. the movements, water sounds are also important. In addition, the Apple Watch recognizes the sound signature of soap. As soon as all three requirements are met, the countdown begins.
watchOS 7: How to enable handwashing detection on your Apple Watch
According to Apple, it took several years to perfect the feature. However, it isn't enabled by default. Since the feature is disabled by default, users who want to use it must manually enable it. To do so, open the Settings on your Apple Watch. Further down, you'll find the menu item "Handwashing." Now you can turn on the timer and haptics—the latter is optional. Once the feature has been enabled and used, users can view the analysis at any time via the Health app. Don't have an Apple Watch yet? Then check out our Amazon Storefront - there you will find various models of the Series 3, 4 and 5. You are not sure whether you want a GPS or GPS+Cellular version? Then take a look at our comparison. There we show all the differences between the individual Apple Watch versions on. (Photo by Maridav / Bigstockphoto)
Comments 1