What actions can be assigned to a custom Apple Watch Ultra button. Apple recently introduced the Apple Watch Ultra, a rugged smartwatch designed for explorers, adventurers and athletes. One of the many unique features of the $799 watch is a new third button called “Action”. In this article, we will tell you what actions can be assigned to this button.
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Action Button Location
The Action button is in International Orange and is shaped like a capsule and is located next to the display on the left side of the titanium case of the Apple Watch Ultra, between the two speakers and the siren.
Siren activation
Pressing and holding the Action button activates the built-in 86 decibel siren, which is audible up to 180 meters away and is designed to call for help during an emergency.
Custom Actions
The Action button is also configurable, meaning it can perform any function the user assigns to it. When setting up a device for the first time, users can choose any function for the Action button on Apple Watch Ultra. Later, they can change their choice in settings, where a new section lists apps that support the button.
Here are a few examples of what you can assign to a button: start Backtrack (uses GPS data to create your route so you can track your steps), start a workout, and start a dive.
The Action button can also be assigned to system functions such as turning the flashlight on and off, marking a compass waypoint, or starting a stopwatch. Alternatively, Apple Watch Ultra users can pause the current function by pressing the Action + Side buttons together.
Assigning shortcuts
Because the Action button is powered by the new App Intents APIs released by Apple at WWDC in June, Apple Watch Ultra users will also be able to assign shortcuts to it, adding huge potential for customization, such as the ability to control smart home accessories.
Assigning a custom command to the Action button can also offer additional adaptability. For example, shortcuts can change based on location or time, or allow the Action button to perform different functions throughout the day.
Multifunctional use
Depending on which application is using the Action button to control it, Apple Watch Ultra users will in some cases be able to select additional actions for subsequent presses.
Apple expects users to use the Action button without looking at the screen, so pressing the button again should logically perform the next action that makes sense in the current context.
For example, a workout app with a single tap might allow the user to start a triathlon and then switch to other segments with subsequent taps.
However, it’s worth noting that apps won’t be able to assign functions to a long press of the Action button, as watchOS 9 reserves it for emergency SOS functions.
Conclusion
Apple’s decision to add a third physical control to the Apple Watch Ultra in the form of an Action button not only lets you quickly access a range of system functions. It also offers a new tool to third-party developers that will allow them to deliver key app features to users with the click of a button.
Whether Apple will add an Action button to its more affordable Apple Watch Series models in the future is an intriguing question, the answer to which may depend on how versatile and indispensable it ends up in the hands of Ultra users.
- The Apple Watch Ultra starts at $799 and is only available in one size, 49mm, with a choice of Trail, Ocean, and Alpine strap options.
