How to remote control presentations with Apple Watch

Keynote remote control

Using PowerPoint or Keynote to deliver presentation slideshows just got easier with the Apple Watch. Now presenters can remote control slides right from the watch, with no other external remote needed. Keynote for iOS version 2.5.3 adds support for the Keynote Remote Apple Watch app. Previously, Keynote users could use their iOS devices to remote control a slide presentation on a Mac. Apple Watch functionality operates in much the same manner.

Once installed, the Mac computer and paired iPhone running the Keynote app must be connected to the same Wi-Fi network. Besides indicating the current slide number, Apple Watch will display simple buttons to advance, reverse or exit the slideshow while in progress. Keynote for iOS costs $9.99 but comes free with new iOS devices.

PowerPoint remote control

Microsoft has also integrated Apple Watch support into version 1.8 of its PowerPoint iOS app. Presenters can open a PowerPoint show on the paired iPhone and remote control the app using Apple Watch. PowerPoint Remote for Apple Watch provides forward and back buttons, slide number, and elapsed time that clocks the duration of the presentation. Microsoft PowerPoint is free, however a subscription to Office 365 can be purchased in-app to unlock more features.