The Control Center on your Apple Watch is a handy tool for getting the most out of your device’s features. However, with the release of watchOS 10, accessing and utilizing the Control Center underwent some subtle changes.
In watchOS 10, Apple replaced the familiar swipe-up gesture with a press of the flat button on the right side of the device to access the Control Center. This adjustment may require some re-learning for longtime Apple Watch users, but it becomes second nature with practice.
Another minor change in watchOS 10 was the relocation of the “connected” icon, previously located in the top left, to the top center. This shift allows for additional icons to be displayed, providing quick access to active Control Center items.
When accessing Control Center, it’s essential not to hold the side button for too long, as this action will bring up Medical ID, Compass Backtrack, and Emergency SOS options. If activated accidentally, simply press the Cancel option or the side button again to return to Control Center.
Pressing the side button twice still brings up Apple Pay and Apple Wallet options, and to dismiss them, press the side button again.
While the icons in Control Center remain largely unchanged, holding down on an icon reveals additional options, if available. For example, holding the alarm icon presents options to toggle it on or off for specific durations.
Customizing Control Center allows you to tailor it to your preferences. Simply scroll to the bottom of the Control Center, press the Edit button, and rearrange or remove icons as desired. You can also add new icons from the list of available options.
Two particularly useful Control Center features include the iPhone ping icon, which helps locate your paired iPhone with a pinging noise, and the Theatre Mode icon, which prevents the screen from activating during events to avoid distractions.
Exploring Control Center and familiarizing yourself with its icons and functions can uncover useful features you may not have known existed. Take some time to customize Control Center to suit your needs and enhance your Apple Watch experience.
