Google Pixel Watch owners can now unlock their smartwatches automatically by simply unlocking a nearby Pixel smartphone.
Support.google.com reported that the new feature bridges wearable accessibility with hardware-level security, provided both devices meet strict proximity and hardware criteria.
UWB support is mandatory for the feature to function properly.
Eligible hardware includes the Google Pixel Watch 3 and subsequent models. On the phone side, users need a Google Pixel 8 or newer variant, specifically including Pro, Pro XL, and Fold models, according to support.google.com.
| Device Category | Minimum Compatible Hardware | Required Technology |
|---|---|---|
| Smartwatch | Google Pixel Watch 3 | Ultra-Wideband (UWB) |
| Smartphone | Google Pixel 8, Pro, Pro XL, Fold | Ultra-Wideband (UWB) |
The two devices must remain paired and sit within a maximum range of 1.5 meters of each other. The smartwatch must stay worn on the user’s wrist during the unlocking sequence.
Users must configure a screen lock consisting of a PIN or pattern on both the smartwatch and the smartphone during initial setup. Support.google.com noted that users can activate a PIN or pattern directly through the Google Pixel Watch app on the smartphone or via the settings menu on the watch itself.
To enable the capability manually, open the Google Pixel Watch app, go to smartwatch preferences, select security, and choose the unlock with phone option. The system demands that the watch remain unlocked and worn on the wrist during this activation phase.
If the option appears greyed out or gets suspended temporarily, users must verify that all prerequisites remain met. Disabling the phone’s screen lock or activating airplane mode requires reconfiguring the lock parameters.
A Secure Element handles key storage to protect sensitive data across the paired devices. Every time the smartphone triggers a watch unlock, the phone displays a notification stating that the smartwatch is being unlocked.
Users maintain a window of up to 20 seconds to cancel the unlocking procedure by tapping cancel on the smartphone notification. Once the process finishes, a confirmation notification appears on the phone.
Forgetting the smartwatch screen lock PIN or pattern forces a factory reset of the wearable to regain access. Support.google.com stated that disabling the feature requires going back through the watch preferences and turning off the smartphone unlock toggle within the security menu.
