Apple Watch can now tell when you’re watching your hands and will automatically start a 20 second countdown.
Apple announced the new feature during its WWDC 2020 event this evening.
The Apple Watch will be able to detect when you’re washing your hands, and will start a visual and audio countdown.
If you decide to stop washing your hands before the 20 seconds is over, the Apple Watch will give you a polite nudge to continue washing.
The update comes amid the coronavirus pandemic, during which several health authorities have urged the public to be vigilant about hand washing.
The NHS explains: “Washing your hands properly removes dirt, viruses and bacteria to stop them spreading to other people and objects, which can spread illnesses such as food poisoning, flu or diarrhoea.
“It can help stop people picking up infections and spreading them to others.
“It can also help stop spreading infections when you're visiting someone in hospital or another healthcare setting.”
You should always wash your hands:
- after using the toilet or changing a nappy
- before and after handling raw foods like meat and vegetables
- before eating or handling food
- after blowing your nose, sneezing or coughing
- before and after treating a cut or wound
- after touching animals, including pets, their food and after cleaning their cages
