Orca Releases Apple Watch App for Autopilot Control

Norwegian boat tech startup Orca announced its new Apple Watch app that allows users to not only view their boats instruments from their watch, but also control its autopilot, making it the first company to deliver autopilot controls on an Apple Watch.

Unlike traditional wireless autopilot controls that resemble TV remotes and require yet another device, Orca’s app allows you to control the autopilot directly from your existing Apple Watch, so you can easily change course no matter your location on board.

“There are many situations where you may find yourself away from the helm when piloting a boat,” says Jorge Sevillano, CEO of Orca. “In those situations, having control of the boat and an eye on your instruments makes life a lot easier – and the Apple Watch is a great tool for handling those situations.”

You can also turn autopilot on and off from the app, and view important instruments like speed, heading, water depth, wind speed and wind direction. To connect the watch to the boat’s instruments and autopilot, an Orca Core is required.

“An Apple Watch costs less than a dedicated wireless autopilot remote and it does so much more”, says Kristian Fallrø, the CTO of Orca. “I’m sure a lot of boaters will look at the Apple Watch as a great tool to make their boat trips more convenient and safe.”

To learn more, visit getorca.com.