How to Use the Apple Watch App Store

This article explains how to access the Apple Watch App Store on watches running watchOS 6 or later. You can view and download apps right from your wrist instead of having to use the iPhone as an intermediary.

How to Use the Apple Watch App Store

If your Apple Watch isn't already running the latest watchOS version, you'll first need to use your iPhone to update your Apple Watch system software.

1. Raise your wrist to activate your Apple Watch and press the Digital Crown to view your apps.

2. Select the Apple Watch App Store icon to open the App Store.

3. Use the Digital Crown or your finger to scroll through featured apps and curated lists, or select a category to see more apps.

4. Use the Search box to find a specific app or to search by keyword. Select Dictation to speak your search term and then select Done when you're finished.

5. Or, select Scribble to use the Apple Watch's handwriting recognition system to search. Select Done when you've entered your search term.

6. Choose an app you want to learn more about. You'll see its icon, a Get button (or a paid app's price), a short description, its star rating, and preview images.

7. Scroll down to see a longer About description, developer information, and an update log.

8. Select Ratings & Reviews, Version History, Information, Supports, or Privacy Policy for more detailed information.

9. To download the app, select Get. For paid apps, select the price. Double-press the side button to install the app. If prompted, enter your Apple ID and password.

10. You'll see new your newly installed Apple Watch app on the Watch's app grid or list. Select the app icon to launch it.

    If you search for an app you've already downloaded on any of your devices, you'll see the "download from cloud" button familiar to iOS App Store users. 

While it's not quite as full-featured as the App Store on the iPhone, the Apple Watch App Store makes it easy and convenient to find apps for your wearable.