If you ever get lost, you can use the redesigned Backtrack feature of the Compass app on the Apple Watch Ultra, Apple Watch SE, and Apple Watch Series 6, and any later models are running watchOS 9. This feature will track your route and then assist you in retracing your steps.

When using Backtrack, the GPS on your Apple Watch creates a digital breadcrumb trail of your journey, relieving you of the burden of remembering your exact whereabouts at all times.

Based on Apple, Backtrack is best used in unfamiliar environments, such as when you are away from your home or office or in a sparsely populated area without Wi-Fi. But of course, there is nothing else to stop you from using it anywhere you see fit.

Utilizing the Backtrack Feature

Learn how to use Backtrack functions in watchOS 9, based on MacRumors' step-by-step guidelines. Keep in mind that wearing a metal watch band could affect the program's accuracy.

  1. Launch the Compass app on your Apple Watch.
  2. Begin recording your path by tapping the 'footprints' icon in the lower-right corner of the screen. Click Start.
  3. Scroll down and hit Allow Once if prompted to give Compass permission to see your Recent Locations.
  4. To find your way back, press the pause button at the screen's lower right corner, then select Retrace Steps.
  5. The Compass will show your initial location, and a white arrow will bounce in the direction you should go. Within the compass circle, a white line will indicate the route back to your starting point. Simply retrace your steps to get back to where you made your initial turn in Backtrack.
  6. When you're back where your starting location, hit the footprints icon for the second time, then select Delete Steps.

Creating Compass Waypoints

If you have an Apple Watch SE, Apple Watch Series 6, or any later devices with watchOS 9, you may use the Compass app to save your current location as a waypoint. Set up the waypoints and see how far away they are and in what direction they point.

Follow these instructions from the Apple website to open and use the Apple Watch Compass app.

  1. Access the Compass app, then tap the Waypoint button.
  2. Hit Done after entering waypoint information, such as the label, color, or symbol of a vehicle or home.
  3. Select a waypoint using the Digital Crown and the Select button after tapping it on one of the three Compass screens to see its details.
  4. You can view the waypoint's coordinates by tapping the bottom of the screen.
  5. To make changes, select the Edit button.

Apple Devices as Life-savers

Aside from Backtrack, a single Apple Watch can offer several other helpful features. This device could save one's life, indeed.

For instance, this wristwatch can notice health issues before you even see it. The optical sensor in this gadget is responsible for monitoring vital signs, including heart rate, blood oxygen level, and temperature, and even recording an electrocardiogram.

In an emergency, both Apple Watch and iPhone feature an SOS app that can be used to notify emergency personnel and family members. Holding the power button on either device for five seconds will activate the Emergency SOS function.

In addition, you can sound an alarm with the help of the brand-new Apple Watch Ultra's 86-decibel emergency Siren when needed.

Related Article: watchOS 9 Updates Compass App on Apple Watch: Here's What's New

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Written by Trisha Kae Andrada

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