Over the weekend, people were doing double-takes — not over a papal decree, but a watch.
During a recent Mass, newly appointed Pope Leo XIV (formerly Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost of Chicago) was spotted wearing an Apple Watch, sparking both amusement and curiosity online.
The 69-year-old pontiff, officially welcomed on May 8, has already made headlines for urging peace in Ukraine and Gaza, but this time, it was his tech accessory making waves.
Photos showed him in traditional vestments, blessing the congregation with his right hand — and the Apple Watch clearly visible on his left wrist.
Social media lit up:
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“Him wearing an Apple Watch gets me every time.”
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“A surreal image.”
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“The Apple Watch is so funny.”
This isn’t the first time his wristwear has gone viral. Tech sites like 9to5Mac and Reddit users have previously spotted him wearing the same watch pre-papacy.
Ancient ritual meets modern tech — and in today’s world, why shouldn’t the Pope track his steps too?