Apple released a new video demonstrating how professional surfers rely on Apple Watch during World Surf League competitions. The footage shows athletes using the device to overcome a major challenge: when surfers are hundreds of meters from shore, crashing waves and wind prevent them from hearing competition announcements. The league integrated the watch with its scoring system to deliver real-time updates directly to competitors in the water.

Professional surfer Lakey Peterson described the frustration of competing without this technology, while Isabella Nichols called the real-time information "crucial" to competition outcomes. The watch displays remaining heat time, current scores, and priority status. Mateus Herdy noted the device vibrates when priority changes, allowing surfers to stay focused without constantly checking the screen.

Surfers have worn the watch at notoriously dangerous breaks including Pipeline in Hawaii and Teahupo'o in Tahiti, with zero devices lost despite punishing conditions. Nichols compared the watch to essential equipment like surfboards and rash guards, highlighting its reliability in extreme environments.

This video appears to be part of Apple's new "Apple at Play" marketing series, building on previous partnerships that brought WSL championship tours to Apple TV through the "Make or Break" docuseries. The integration demonstrates how wearables can solve practical problems in professional sports.