Learn how to configure your Apple Watch to only display the full notification when tapped instead of upon wrist raise, giving you more privacy.
By default, the Apple Watch displays a notification preview upon wrist raise, followed by the full notification a few moments later. This lets you glance at the sender to decide whether to read the full alert, all without touching the display.
You can also make your Apple Watch notifications more private by requiring a tap before the full text is revealed. Concerned that people who may be peering over your shoulder could read a sensitive notification when you raise your wrist? If so, then switch to private notifications by following the steps below.
Reveal the full Apple Watch notification on tap
- Open the companion Watch app on your paired iPhone.
- Select the My Watch tab at the bottom.
- Choose Notifications.
- Turn on the switch labeled Tap to Show Full Notification.
New notifications will no longer be displayed in their entirety. Instead, notifications will only include the app name and icon, and no other details. The underlying content will remain hidden unless you manually tap the notification.
To revert the setting, slide the Tap to Show Full Notification toggle back to the OFF position. Doing so will automatically display the full notification upon wrist raise.
Privacy on your Apple devices
Apple has turned privacy into a competitive advantage, and its devices have robust built-in features designed to protect your privacy and strengthen security.
We’ve outlined several ways to boost your privacy on an iPhone and shared tips to hide your private Messages conversations. And if you own an Apple Watch, be sure to check out a list of 10 useful tips for Apple Watch owners.
Do you allow full Apple Watch notifications on your wrist, or have you opted for a bit more privacy by requiring a tap to display the full alert? Let us know by sharing your thoughts with fellow readers in the commenting section down below!