HealthKit

How to use Automatic Handwashing Detection on Apple Watch

Handwashing Summary in Health on iPhone

Even before the pandemic of 2020, people knew that washing their hands was important. To reduce the risk of spreading illness, washing your hands for at least 20 seconds is the key. With this in mind, Apple introduced an Apple Watch feature to help.

With Automatic Handwashing Detection in watchOS 7, your Apple Watch can sense when you begin washing your hands. And with that, a 20-second timer begins. This lets you know when time is up and you’re good to go. There is also a setting to remind you to wash your hands when you return home.

Here, we’ll show you how to enable and use the Automatic Handwashing Detection feature as well as check how well you’re doing with your handwashing rituals.

Apple Health works with VA, but not with my doctor

Apple's Health app icon

Apple's recent announcement that it's partnered with the U.S. Veterans Administration (VA) to make the VA's own Health Records system accessible within the Health application on the iPhone got me thinking: What the hell is wrong with my own health care provider? I'm not a vet but I almost wish I were, if it would simplify this process. Because the way I access my own information is a raging dumpster fire.