Apple Watch keeps jumping from the watch face to random apps every time you raise your wrist or use certain features, you’re not alone. Many users find it frustrating when the Watch automatically opens the last used app instead of showing the time. Luckily, Apple provides a simple fix inside the settings.
Here’s how you can keep your Apple Watch locked on the watch face — and stop it from auto-launching apps in the background.
Open the Watch app on your iPhone
Go to the Watch app on your iPhone that’s paired with your Apple Watch. This is where most watch settings are controlled.
Tap on “General”
Scroll down and select General. You’ll find several system settings related to your Watch’s performance and display.
Select “Wake Screen” or “Return to Clock”
Depending on your watchOS version, the option might appear as Wake Screen or Return to Clock.
Tap on it to access behavior settings for how your Watch reacts when you raise your wrist or interact with apps.
Change the “Return to Clock” setting
Under Return to Clock, you’ll see different options such as:
- Always
- After 2 minutes
- After 1 hour
Select Always to ensure your Apple Watch instantly goes back to the Watch face every time you lower your wrist or leave an app.
Optional: Turn off Auto-Launch for Apps
If you don’t want apps like Workout or Music to auto-launch, go to:
Settings → General → Auto-Launch → turn off the toggles.
This ensures that even when you start certain activities, your Watch won’t automatically open those apps.
Use Focus Mode for a Clean Watch Face
If you prefer a minimal, distraction-free display, enable Focus Mode from your iPhone and select which notifications you want to appear on your Watch face.
Keeping your Apple Watch on the Watch face makes it more elegant, efficient, and distraction-free. With these settings tweaked, you can now enjoy a pure timekeeping experience without unnecessary app interruptions.
It’s a small adjustment — but it makes a big difference in daily use.