Hello. I'm trying to decide between Apple Watch and another brand that has navigation built in. Can I do that with just the Apple Watch gps model and not tethered to my phone? What I would like to do, for example, is if I'm out exploring in the woods with just my Apple Watch on, can I use it to find my way back to where I started?
Thanks.
MacBook Pro, OS X Yosemite (10.10.4), iPhone X
Hi
That is not possible via the built-in apps.
The functions that are available on Apple Watch when it is away from your iPhone depend on various factors including:
About Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and cellular on your Apple Watch - Apple Support
Features and requirements that apply under various circumstances are detailed here:
How to use your Apple Watch without your iPhone nearby - Apple Support
You may find that a third-party app meets your needs.
For example, ViewRanger currently supports GPS-based navigation when using your Apple Watch away from your iPhone, subject to having first downloaded the relevant map to your watch:
Keep in mind, however, that GPS reception can vary along a route, including due to obstructions such as trees:
About privacy and Location Services in iOS 8 and later - Apple Support
To browse and search for this and/or other third-party apps with the results pre-filtered to include only those iPhone apps that also include an app for Apple Watch, use the Watch app on your iPhone. Apps can be searched by keyword or app name via the Search tab.
Follow the instructions here to add and use compatible apps on your Apple Watch:
Hi
That is not possible via the built-in apps.
The functions that are available on Apple Watch when it is away from your iPhone depend on various factors including:
About Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and cellular on your Apple Watch - Apple Support
Features and requirements that apply under various circumstances are detailed here:
How to use your Apple Watch without your iPhone nearby - Apple Support
You may find that a third-party app meets your needs.
For example, ViewRanger currently supports GPS-based navigation when using your Apple Watch away from your iPhone, subject to having first downloaded the relevant map to your watch:
Keep in mind, however, that GPS reception can vary along a route, including due to obstructions such as trees:
About privacy and Location Services in iOS 8 and later - Apple Support
To browse and search for this and/or other third-party apps with the results pre-filtered to include only those iPhone apps that also include an app for Apple Watch, use the Watch app on your iPhone. Apps can be searched by keyword or app name via the Search tab.
Follow the instructions here to add and use compatible apps on your Apple Watch:
Thank you very much.
You're welcome! 🙂
Is navigating possible with GPS watch only
