Find your way to a place, retrace your steps, or set a bearing and follow it with Apple’s redesigned Compass application in watchOS 9. This is how the route and backtracking work and what you want to use these features.
For Apple Watch Series 6 and later
Apple has updated the Compass app for watchOS 9. The company has added a new compass view and two new features, Waypoints and Backtrack. Apple first introduced these features on the high-end Apple Watch Ultra, but you can use them on the basic models.
To get the full feature, you’ll need an Apple Watch Series 6, Apple Watch SE (first and second generation), or Apple Watch Ultra running watchOS 9. If you have an older Apple Watch, you’ll need to buy a new Apple Watch that supports these features.
Make sure you’re running the latest version of watchOS by opening the Watch app on your iPhone, then (on the “My Watch” tab) going to General > Software Update. The Apple Watch Series 5 is the first Apple wearable device with a built-in compass sensor, but Series 5 owners will miss Waypoint and Backtrack (although the Series 5 is compatible with watchOS 9).
Apple warns that the compass sensor in all models can be affected by magnetic interference, especially when used with certain magnetically dependent bands. This includes the Apple Leather Link, Leather Loop, Milanese Loop, and Sport Loop before 2019. Note that other watch bands may also use magnets.
Set a route on your Apple Watch
To set a waypoint on your Apple Watch, launch the Compass app, then tap the “Waypoint” icon in the lower left corner of the screen.
Tap the “Label” area to give the area a name, then scroll down and select a color and icon. At the bottom of the screen, you can also turn on the “Show Route” option to hide or show the location on your compass dial.
Mark Waypoint in the Apple Watch compass app
If “Show Waypoint” is enabled, this location will now appear on the compass dial. You can scroll the digital crown while displaying the compass to change views and get a better view.
Note: The route you create will be displayed on the compass dial as long as you are within 50 kilometers. You will also see your route listed in the compass menu, which is accessed using the button in the upper left corner of the screen. Tap a waypoint to change its label, color or icon. Move left to the path, then press “X” to delete it.
Delete Waypoints on Apple Watch
If you have an Apple Watch Ultra, you can also use the function button (on the left side of the device) to set the priority. To do this, go to Settings > Action Button on your Apple Watch and select “Waypoint” from the list that appears.
Add a route marker to your watch faceOnce you’ve created a route, you can place it on the Apple Watch face to make it seamless. If you do, you’ll be guided to your Waypoint every time you look at your Apple Watch face. You can also do this with automatically generated routes for your parked car in the Maps app.
You can add this puzzle just like you would add any other. Open the Watch app on your iPhone, then (on the “My Watch” tab) tap your current watch face. Scroll to the “Complex” section and replace the existing compass (or blank space) with “Compass – Waypoint” instead. Manage Complexity Using iPhone
You can also do this on your watch by long-pressing your current watch face, clicking “Edit” next to the face you want to edit, and left-clicking to access the problem. Tap a location and select “Compass – Waypoint” to add it.
How to Set Your Bearing in the Compass App
The real advantage here is no longer having to open the Compass app to be guided to a destination. It’s also great if you forget where you parked, because you have to raise your hand and check your watch for a reminder.
Use Backtrack to retrace your steps
Backtrack is a feature that saves your route so you can easily find your way back to your home. The feature doesn’t work all the time, but Apple says the Backtrack feature can turn on automatically if you’re off the grid (away from Wi-Fi and a popular location). To start tracing your route manually, open the Compass app, then tap the Backtrack icon (which looks like a footprint) in the lower right corner of the screen. The button will change to a “pause” icon to indicate that Backtrack is running. Tap the icon again, and choose between “Retrace Steps” or “Delete Steps” from the options that appear.
Start converting to Apple Watch
If you choose to retrace your steps, the compass face will show your way. You can also start Backtrack by pressing the side button on your Apple Watch and moving the “Compass Backtrack” slider to the right.
Your Apple Watch can automatically save route data when you’re off the grid. To try accessing this data, tap the back icon to see if it automatically shows the use of historical location data.
How to set your license with the compass app
You can also set the compass to be carried on your Apple Watch, measured in degrees. When you do this, you’ll see more information on the compass dial to guide you in the direction you’ve chosen. The motion always points in the same direction until you delete or change it. To do this, launch the Compass app and click the menu button in the upper left corner of the screen. Scroll to the “Bearing” section and click on it, then use the digital crown to set your degree and degree. Tap “Don’t” and your arm will appear on the compass dial, appearing in red.
Set effects on Apple Watch
To reset this, go back to the “Bearing” area and click “Clear Bearing” to clear. The compass design is much better
In addition to directions, backtracking, and the ability to set things, watchOS 9 introduced a few new compass concepts. Turn the digital crown to see a variety of information, including a simple side view, detailed information about your altitude and orientation, and a variety of “radar” modes for lane tracking. Apple Watch Compass preview
You can also click the “menu” button in the upper left corner of the Compass app to view detailed information about your current location.
Fixed “Red Spinning Radar” bug.
If you see a red radar screen rather than a compass dial when using the Compass app on your Apple Watch, magnetic interference may be to blame. Try moving from your current location or removing the watch band to see if this is the cause.
If you’re still having no luck, check your iPhone’s integrated settings to make sure the service is enabled somewhere under Settings > Privacy & Security. You need to check that the compass setting is enabled under Settings > Privacy and security > Location services > System services, and that “When using apps” is enabled under Settings > Privacy and security > Location services > Compass.
Suitable for outdoor activities
Apple Watch can help encourage an active lifestyle. The Compass app is also great for travelers looking for a smartwatch. If you’re looking for a new wearable, you might want the Apple Watch Ultra if you can handle the size and price.
