Device requirements.
SkyTimer runs on iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch. Here’s what each needs, and what changes from one device to the next.
Software
| iPhone and iPad | iOS 17 or iPadOS 17 or later. |
|---|---|
| Apple Watch | watchOS 10 or later, paired with an iPhone running SkyTimer. |
iPhone
Every iPhone has GPS, so automatic takeoff and landing works with SkyTimer Plus. Live Activities show your flight on the Lock Screen and in the Dynamic Island. On iOS 18 or later they keep their times and fuel gauge current on their own.
iPad
SkyTimer works in any orientation on iPad and can float beside your EFB. Two differences from iPhone:
- GPS: Wi-Fi + Cellular iPads have GPS. Wi-Fi-only iPads don’t, so they can’t detect takeoff and landing. On a Wi-Fi-only iPad, tap Start Flight and End Flight yourself, or run SkyTimer on your iPhone. Settings › Takeoff & Landing › GPS Status shows what your iPad is getting.
- Live Activities: iPad doesn’t have them. Your fuel reminders still come as notifications.
Apple Watch
SkyTimer on Apple Watch follows the trip on your iPhone, or flies on its own when your iPhone isn’t with you. Install it from the Watch app on your iPhone. See Apple Watch and iPhone.
iPhone Duo
Folded, SkyTimer works like it does on iPhone. Unfolded, it uses the larger iPad-style flight screen and settings. On iOS 27.1 or later, its controls sit in the side bar.
Questions about devices
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What iOS version does SkyTimer need?
iOS 17 or later on iPhone, iPadOS 17 or later on iPad, and watchOS 10 or later on Apple Watch.
Does SkyTimer work on a Wi-Fi-only iPad?
Yes, but it can’t detect takeoff and landing, because Wi-Fi-only iPads have no GPS. Tap Start Flight and End Flight yourself, or run SkyTimer on your iPhone or a Wi-Fi + Cellular iPad. A GPS shared over Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, such as from avionics or an ADS-B receiver, doesn’t keep working while SkyTimer is in the background, so it can’t be used for detection.
Do I need an Apple Watch?
No. SkyTimer works on iPhone or iPad alone. Apple Watch adds your flight and reminders on your wrist.