Ping my iPhone with the updated Apple Watch OS

Just installed Apple Watch new OS 10.1.1 on my series 4 Apple Watch. I cannot find the control to ping my iPhone to locate it. Does anyone know how to get to that easy command that used to be available by swiping down.? I use this more than any other feature


[Re-Titled by Moderator]

Posted on Nov 21, 2023 11:32 AM

Reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Nov 21, 2023 11:49 AM

Access to the Control Center, which contains "Ping" Mode can be accessed by using the Watch "Side Button." According to Use the buttons and screen on your Apple Watch:

Press the side button

  • Press to show or hide Control Center.
  • Press and hold to use Emergency SOS.
  • Double-click to use Apple Pay.
  • Press and hold to turn your watch on or off. 

If you have Apple Watch Ultra or later, you can customize the Action button to access your favorite features quickly.

If you haven't updated watchOS, learn how to use the side button. 

86 replies

Dec 15, 2023 8:53 PM in response to udh577

udh577 wrote:

I also do not see the control center or any way to ping my phone when I press the button indicated. I see recently used apps. I have a series 3. I use the ping feature several times a day and it’s the main reason I have the watch.
Going through the “Find devices” route doesn’t always bring up my phone, and it’s super inconvenient to use. Need help with this!

This button (see picture)

Use Control Center on Apple Watch - Apple Support


Dec 7, 2023 3:16 PM in response to Kristi.watson1

Kristi.watson1 wrote:

Worst update for my watch! I too use this feature all of the time! Thanks for sharing the new location for it! Appreciate you so much!

Telling Apple is one way to get Apple to make future changes. If enough fellow users also send feedback, it is more likely a decision maker will see it

What’s new in Apple Watch and watchOS 10 - Apple Support



Dec 25, 2023 4:08 PM in response to BobHarris

I agree that when I push the oval button I see a menu but it is nonsensically arranged and does not include the ping icon. I, after a lot of searching have found an icon for the “find my” app on the graphical interface and I see that it is possible through that to ping the phone, but the process is very cumbersome and time consuming to use what used to take a few seconds now takes about a minute. Apple better restore the swipe function in a new update asap. They have thousands of frustrated customers.

Feb 1, 2024 9:07 PM in response to 2208Ed

2208Ed wrote:

The most used and most helpful button (pinging your phone) now more difficult. The weather temps almost now invisible (no contrast) - every difficult for older people.

Apple does not read this user-to-user technical support forum for feedback.


But you can send Apple feedback via:

Feedback - Watch - Apple


If enough users send feedback, it is more likely a decision maker will see it, and maybe take action.


Mar 31, 2024 3:41 PM in response to BubblygirlW

BubblygirlW wrote:

Thanks for the info. I have to say this is a stupid and inconvenient update after having my watch for so long... if I wanted things in a different place and hard to use I would have bought a Samsung 😉🤪

Apple does not read this user-to-user technical support forum for feedback.


But you can send Apple feedback via:

Feedback - Watch - Apple


If enough users send feedback, it is more likely a decision maker will see it, and maybe take action.


This thread has been closed by the system or the community team. You may vote for any posts you find helpful, or search the Community for additional answers.

Ping my iPhone with the updated Apple Watch OS

Welcome to Apple Support Community
A forum where Apple customers help each other with their products. Get started with your Apple Account.