Use Apple Watch to Approve Mac Software Installs

Yes, you can approve system software installations and other administrator prompts on macOS 13 Ventura using an Apple Watch. This feature extends the Mac's "Auto Unlock" functionality, allowing you to bypass typing your administrator password by simply double-clicking the side button on your authenticated watch. This guide outlines the hardware requirements, how to enable the setting in macOS 13, and how the approval process works during software installations.

Requirements

To use your Apple Watch to approve administrator authorization requests, your devices must meet the following criteria:

  • Operating System: Your Mac must run macOS 13 Ventura (or later), and your Apple Watch must run watchOS 6 (or later).
  • Apple Account: Both devices must be signed in to the same Apple ID using two-factor authentication.
  • Connectivity: Both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi must be turned on for your Mac and Apple Watch.
  • Security Settings: Your Apple Watch must be secured with a passcode and currently unlocked on your wrist.

How to Enable Apple Watch Approval in macOS 13

In macOS 13 Ventura, the settings interface was redesigned as System Settings. To turn on Apple Watch authorization:

  1. Click the Apple menu () in the top-left corner of the screen and select System Settings.
  2. In the sidebar, scroll down and select Touch ID & Password (or Login Password if your Mac does not feature Touch ID).
  3. Locate the Apple Watch section on the right-hand panel.
  4. Toggle the switch next to your Apple Watch's name to the On position.
  5. Enter your Mac user password when prompted to confirm the change.

How to Approve an Installation

Once enabled, any system event that requires an administrator password—such as installing an application via a .pkg installer, moving items into the system Applications folder, or modifying protected system settings—will trigger an alert on your wrist.

When the prompt appears on your Mac screen asking for administrative credentials, your Apple Watch will vibrate with a haptic tap. Simply double-click the side button on your Apple Watch to approve the installation immediately.

Note: You must still manually type your password the first time you log in after turning on, restarting, or logging out of your Mac.