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Find answers to common questions and troubleshooting tips
System Requirements
iPhone Requirements
iOS 17.0 or later
Apple Watch Requirements
watchOS 10.0 or later, paired with iPhone
Permissions Required
Motion & Fitness access
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I enable Sentry Mode?
Open the WatchOver app on your iPhone or Apple Watch and tap the "Enable Sentry Mode" button. The app will count down for 3 seconds before activating, giving you time to place your phone and step away.
Why isn't my Apple Watch receiving alerts?
Make sure:
- Your Apple Watch is paired and connected to your iPhone
- Both devices have WatchOver installed
- Bluetooth is enabled on both devices
- Your watch is worn and unlocked
- Do Not Disturb is not enabled on your watch
I'm getting false alerts. What should I do?
You can adjust the sensitivity levels in Settings:
- Open WatchOver on your iPhone
- Tap the Settings icon
- Adjust the threshold values for each alert level
- Higher values = less sensitive (fewer false alerts)
- Lower values = more sensitive (more alerts)
Does WatchOver drain my battery?
WatchOver uses background audio and motion sensors while active. Battery impact is moderate - similar to playing music in the background. For best battery life, only enable Sentry Mode when you need it.
Can I use WatchOver without an Apple Watch?
No, WatchOver requires a paired Apple Watch to function. The watch is essential for receiving alerts when you're away from your phone.
What are the different alert levels?
WatchOver has three levels of motion detection:
- Level 1 (Nudge): Minor displacement - gentle watch haptic
- Level 2 (Pickup): Device lifted or tilted - strong watch vibration
- Level 3 (Theft): Rapid movement - intense watch alerts + loud phone siren
How do I silence an alert?
When an alert is triggered, you can tap "Silence" on your Apple Watch to mute the alarm, or tap "Disable" to turn off Sentry Mode completely. You can also disable it from your iPhone.
Does WatchOver work in the background?
Yes! Once enabled, WatchOver continues monitoring even if you lock your phone or switch to another app. On Apple Watch, it works even while using the Workout app or when the watch is locked.
Is my motion data stored or shared?
No. All motion detection happens on your device. WatchOver does not store, transmit, or share any data. Your privacy is completely protected. See our Privacy Policy for more details.
The app says "Motion permission required." What do I do?
To grant motion access:
- Open Settings on your iPhone
- Scroll down and tap "WatchOver"
- Enable "Motion & Fitness"
- Return to WatchOver and try again
Troubleshooting
App won't activate Sentry Mode
Try these steps:
- Restart the WatchOver app
- Check that Motion & Fitness permissions are enabled
- Ensure your Apple Watch is connected
- Restart your iPhone and Apple Watch
Watch vibrations are too weak/strong
Haptic intensity is controlled by your Apple Watch's system settings. Go to Settings → Sounds & Haptics on your watch to adjust haptic strength.
Level 3 alarm won't play sound
Check these settings:
- Volume is turned up on your iPhone
- Silent mode (ring/silent switch) is OFF
- Do Not Disturb is disabled
- Focus modes are not silencing notifications
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