How to use Smart Lock with your Google Pixel Watch
Google just introduced thePixel Watch 2and theGoogle Pixel 8. The Watch 2 appears almost identical to the first-gen Pixel Watch, which is among thetop Android smartwatches. It comes with minor tweaks under the hood, like out-of-the-boxWear OS 4, improved fitness tracking, and a new chipset.
A useful feature the Google Pixel Watch series offers is Smart Lock, which lets you keep your Android phone unlocked when your Pixel Watch is in proximity. While this feature is convenient, you should be aware of the security implications of keeping your phone unlocked for extended periods.
Whether you’re looking to upgrade to a Pixel Watch 2 or holding on to your first-gen Pixel Watch, this guide shows you how to use Smart Lock on your Pixel Watch series.
Learn how the new Nearby Unlock feature differs from Android Smart Lock!!
How to activate Smart Lock
You don’t need your Pixel Watch to activate Smart Lock. Just confirm it’s on and connected to your Android phone via Bluetooth.
Your phone stays unlocked for four hours or until it is no longer connected to your Pixel Watch. You can also force-lock your phone by opening the power menu and tappingLockdown.
Google’s new Active Unlock, called Watch Unlock in conjunction with the Google Pixel Watch, is an improved version of Smart Lock. Watch Unlock requires you to authenticate yourself on your watch, so your phone stays unlocked as long as you wear your smartwatch. This feature may not be limited to Google’s smartwatches but could come to Samsung’s Galaxy Watches.
How to use Smart Lock
All you do to use Smart Lock is keep your phone connected to your Pixel Watch via Bluetooth. However, you must unlock your phone once (and at least every four hours afterward).
You can turn off Smart Lock by repeating the above steps, but you can also turn off Bluetooth temporarily if you wish to turn it off.
While your phone locks as soon as it’s disconnected, it leaves a window for rascals to access your phone. If you lose your phone, turn off Bluetooth on your watch until you find it. UseFind My Deviceto locate a missing phone, or ring it from your Pixel Watch.
In addition, Smart Lock works while not wearing your Pixel Watch. If a ne’er-do-well gains hold of both devices, they can use your phone without hindrance.
Why isn’t Smart Lock working?
If Smart Lock isn’t working, it’s likely an issue with your Bluetooth settings. Try these steps to resolve the issue.
Discover all the features of the Pixel Watch
The first-gen Google Pixel Watch and Pixel Watch 2 offer a wide range of customization options and has plenty of features to monitor your health. Smart Lock is one such useful feature, allowing you to keep your phone unlocked. But it’s best to use it at home due to the security implications. You can alsouse Smart Lock to unlock your Chromebook.
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