You can use the Apple Watch Ultra 2 as a heart rate monitor with Zwift, but the process is somewhat complex and may not be as reliable as using dedicated heart rate monitors. Here are the key points regarding its integration:
Connection Process
1. Using the Apple Watch with an iPhone: The simplest method involves running the Zwift app on your iPhone, which the Apple Watch is paired with. You need to install the full Zwift app (not the companion app) on your iPhone and the Zwift app on your Apple Watch.
2. Pairing Steps:
- Start the Zwift app on your iPhone and sign in.
- Open the Zwift app on your Apple Watch; it may initially show as "unpaired."
- Begin a ride in Zwift on your iPhone but do not start moving yet.
- Tap the menu in the Zwift app on your iPhone, select the Bluetooth icon, and then tap the heart rate box to pair your Apple Watch as a heart rate monitor[2][6].
3. Using Zwift on Other Devices: If you want to run Zwift on an iPad, PC, or Apple TV, you will need to use the Zwift Mobile Link app on your iPhone to broadcast your heart rate to the main Zwift app running on another device. This involves a similar pairing process, but it can be more convoluted since you are using three apps simultaneously[2][4].
Limitations
- Connection Reliability: Users have reported mixed success with the Apple Watch as a heart rate monitor for Zwift. Some find it works well, while others experience issues with connectivity and reliability, often preferring dedicated heart rate straps like those from Garmin or Wahoo for consistent performance[1][3][5].
- Single Bluetooth Connection: The Apple Watch can only connect to one Bluetooth device at a time for heart rate monitoring. If your smart trainer is connected to Zwift, you cannot connect the Apple Watch simultaneously[3][6].
- Data Sampling: The heart rate sampling rate from the Apple Watch may not be as frequent as that of dedicated heart rate monitors, which could affect performance tracking during high-intensity workouts[4].
In summary, while the Apple Watch Ultra 2 can function as a heart rate monitor for Zwift, users may experience connectivity issues and should consider using dedicated heart rate monitors for a more reliable experience.
Citations:[1] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F_oKrlSNppE
[2] https://theapplewatchtriathlete.com/blog-1/2017/12/13/using-apple-watch-as-a-hr-monitor-for-zwift
[3] https://www.reddit.com/r/AppleWatch/comments/1bxj8gs/ultra_2_bluetooth_and_zwift/
[4] https://www.dcrainmaker.com/2023/07/meters-support-everything.html
[5] https://discussions.apple.com/thread/255409041
[6] https://forums.zwift.com/t/zwift-ipad-apple-watch-wahoo-kickr/249792
[7] https://forums.zwift.com/t/apple-watch-not-connecting-since-latest-update-february-2024-1-58/624936
[8] https://forums.zwift.com/t/connecting-apple-watch-for-heart-rate/595500