The Watch That Turned Heads

Over the weekend, photos from a recent Holy Mass began circulating online—but it wasn’t the sermon that stole attention. Instead, all eyes were on newly appointed Pope Leo XIV and what appeared on his wrist: an Apple Watch.

Formerly known as Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, the 69-year-old Chicago native officially assumed the papacy on May 8. While he has already made headlines for calling for peace in Ukraine and Gaza, this moment had nothing to do with global affairs—and everything to do with fashion meets function.

Social Media Reacts

As images surfaced showing the pope blessing the congregation in full vestments, social media lit up.

“Him wearing an Apple Watch gets me every time,” one user posted on X.
“The Pontiff wearing an Apple Watch is a really surreal image,” another added.
“The Apple Watch is so funny,” wrote a third.

The internet couldn’t get enough of the unexpected combo: traditional robes and sleek, modern tech.

Not His First Time

This wasn’t a one-time moment. Eagle-eyed viewers had previously spotted the same device on his wrist during public appearances before his election. Even Apple news outlets picked up the story.

9to5Mac posted a close-up of the watch to Instagram, asking, “It’s not clear which model this is. Any guesses?” The post was quickly reshared by Apple-focused accounts, confirming what many suspected: Pope Leo XIV is indeed an Apple Watch fan.

A Digital History

One Reddit user even found an old photo of Leo XIV—then a cardinal—wearing the same watch while blessing a parishioner. Clearly, this isn’t just a fashion statement; it’s a longtime preference.

Tradition Meets Technology

There’s something almost poetic about it: ancient ritual paired with modern convenience. In a world where grandparents count their steps and priests manage calendars from their wrists, why shouldn’t the Pope?

Now, the internet has one burning question:
What’s Pope Leo XIV’s daily step goal?