It wasn’t a papal decree or a sweeping geopolitical statement that had people talking this weekend. It was a watch — specifically, an Apple Watch — and the wrist it was strapped to.
During a recent Holy Mass, newly appointed Pope Leo XIV, formerly Chicago-born Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, was photographed mid-blessing in full papal regalia — with one unexpected detail catching the internet’s eye: the sleek band of an Apple Watch peeking from under his robe.
“Him wearing an Apple Watch gets me every time,” one user wrote on X, echoing the surreal mashup of modern tech and ancient tradition.
The Tech-Savvy Pontiff
Pope Leo XIV, 69, officially assumed his papal duties on May 8, 2025, and has already made waves for his impassioned calls for peace in global conflict zones. He urged ceasefires in Ukraine and Gaza, demanded the release of hostages, and praised a recent ceasefire deal between India and Pakistan. But this time, the buzz surrounding him had nothing to do with diplomacy — and everything to do with digital accessories.
Images from a recent Mass show Leo XIV blessing worshippers with his right hand while an unmistakable Apple Watch rests on his left wrist. Traditional vestments, sacred rites — and Silicon Valley style.
Social Media Reacts
Naturally, social media had a field day.
“The Pontiff wearing an Apple Watch is a really surreal image,” someone tweeted.
“The Apple Watch is so funny,” another user added, clearly tickled by the juxtaposition.
The Pope’s unexpected embrace of wearable tech quickly went viral, with posts on Reddit, Instagram, and Apple fan sites dissecting the sighting in real time. One user dug up an old photo from before his election, showing Leo XIV — then still Cardinal Prevost — blessing a parishioner while wearing the same device.
Even tech site 9to5Mac joined in, posting a close-up of the watch to Instagram with the caption:
“Newly elected Pope Leo XIV is making buzz in the tech and watch communities after being seen wearing an Apple Watch during his first official Mass. It’s not clear which model this is. Any guesses?”
The post was soon reshared by popular Apple news accounts, effectively confirming what many suspected: yes, the Pope is an Apple Watch guy.
Blending Tradition with Innovation
This isn’t the first time a pontiff has caught attention for blending the traditional with the contemporary — but Leo XIV’s Apple Watch adds a new layer to the symbolism. In a role so rooted in history, every detail carries meaning. So when the leader of 1.3 billion Catholics steps forward wearing a gadget more commonly seen on tech CEOs and college students, it sends a message.
And maybe it makes sense.
In an age where wearable technology tracks everything from steps to sleep to spiritual well-being, perhaps the pope simply appreciates the functionality — or the subtle connection to a modern audience.
Could he be checking his homily notes? Tracking his heart rate during a long procession? Setting reminders to pray the Angelus?
Or, as one commenter joked:
<blockquote>“Now the only question left is: what’s his daily step goal?”</blockquote>
Not Just a Fashion Statement
While many were amused by the visual contrast, others saw it as a refreshing sign of accessibility.
Pope Leo XIV has already made headlines for his approachability and pragmatic tone — and perhaps the Apple Watch is just another reflection of that. Unlike the gilded extravagance of past eras, this pope appears to be charting a course of humility, relevance, and balance between reverence and real life.
Whether intentional or incidental, the image has captured global attention. And in a digital age, where a single post can reach millions, perhaps a quiet moment like this — a blessing, a watch, a photo — says more than any sermon.