Surprising things you can do on your Apple watch

When you want to put a new spin on everyday activities, it’s all in the wrist

Add an animated face

In the Watch app’s Face Gallery, tap Photos; under Content tick Photos and select a Live Photo. This will now be available to choose as a face on your Watch. You can use an app such as Giphy to convert a GIF (ideally 40 frames) to a Live Photo; edit it and set the Key Photo to the last frame.

Play chess

The free Chess app works on the Watch, so you can play against the computer or online opponents on your wrist. There are puzzles graded for skill level, analysis, videos and interactive lessons to improve your play (some features require IAP). And if your boss catches you, at least you’ll look clever.

Memo to self

Open the Drafts app on your Watch to dictate or Scribble a note to yourself. This is automatically synced to your iPhone and can be instantly copied, shared or transferred to other apps. The app is free, with an optional £1.79 per month subscription for extra features including automation.

Ask the 8-ball

Mattel’s Magic 8 Ball is so famous, they’re making a film based on it. This is not Mattel’s Magic 8 Ball, but the unrelated, pixellated Magic 8 Bit 8 Ball app (free with ads, removed for £1.99). Open it on your Watch and get the answers to all your pressing questions. Well, ‘answers’ is a strong word.

Go stargazing

Night Sky is one of a number of apps that offers an augmented reality guide to the heavens. The app displays info and diagrams aligned with the actual sky where you are. Unusually, it works on the Watch. The app is free, with subscriptions from £1.99 for nonessential features.

Work out the tip

Not only is the Calculator app now in watchOS 6, it also has a handy Tip button. Tap the Tip button, turn the Crown to set the percentage, and you can then set the number of diners if you’re splitting the bill. (It won’t settle the argument about Ian’s starter.) Don’t need that? Hard-press Tip and switch it straight to %.