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# WKBackgroundModes

The services a watchOS app provides that require it to continue running in the background.

## Discussion

To add this key to the Information Property List, enable your WatchKit extension’s Background Modes capability in Xcode.

> Important:
> You can only enable one of the extended runtime session modes (`self-care`, `mindfulness`, `physical-therapy`, or `alarm`). However, you can enable both an extended runtime session mode and the `workout-processing` mode. If you set the background modes using Xcode’s Signing & Capabilities tab, Xcode ensures that these values are set properly.

## See Also

  <doc://com.apple.documentation/documentation/WatchKit/using-extended-runtime-sessions>

  <doc://com.apple.documentation/documentation/HealthKit/running-workout-sessions>



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