biometrics

Implement watchOS biometric authentication with wrist detection and LAContext.

32|10|Updated Feb 21, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/moasq/nanowave --skill biometrics
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: biometrics
Source: https://github.com/moasq/nanowave/tree/main/internal/orchestration/skills/watchos/biometrics
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/moasq/nanowave --skill biometrics

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

💡 This Skill includes references (resource) components.

What problem does it solve?

This Skill addresses the implementation of watchOS-specific biometric authentication, including wrist detection and the use of LAContext for secure user verification on Apple Watch.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Wrist Detection: Leverages watchOS's implicit authentication based on whether the device is worn.
  • Optic ID and LAContext: Demonstrates how to use LAContext on watchOS, noting that biometryType returns .opticID or .none.
  • Secure Data Access: Provides a method to confirm user identity for sensitive data access using LAContext.

Quick Start

Use the biometrics skill to authenticate the user on watchOS.

Frequently Asked Questions about biometrics

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
How do I implement biometric authentication on watchOS using LAContext?

To implement watchOS biometric authentication, use LAContext to verify user identity for sensitive data access. The biometryType property returns .opticID or .none on Apple Watch, enabling secure user verification flows.

Does watchOS support Optic ID for user verification?

Yes, watchOS supports Optic ID for user verification. When using LAContext for biometric authentication, the biometryType property returns .opticID, allowing secure access to sensitive data on the device.

How does wrist detection work for watchOS authentication?

Wrist detection provides implicit watchOS authentication by leveraging whether the device is worn. It serves as a baseline security layer that can be combined with LAContext for explicit user verification when accessing sensitive data.

What is the best way to handle passcode fallback in watchOS authentication?

Handling passcode fallback in watchOS authentication involves configuring LAContext to verify user identity when biometrics are unavailable. This ensures secure access to sensitive data by falling back to passcode verification on the device.

Can I use LAContext to secure sensitive data on Apple Watch?

Yes, you can use LAContext to secure sensitive data on Apple Watch. It provides methods to confirm user identity through biometric authentication like Optic ID or passcode fallback, ensuring secure data access.

Why does LAContext biometryType return none on my Apple Watch?

LAContext biometryType returns .none when the Apple Watch does not support Optic ID or when biometric authentication is unavailable. In this case, implement passcode fallback to maintain secure user verification.