Pope Leo XIV Sparks Buzz With Unexpected Tech Choice

Pope Leo XIV may be newly installed as leader of the Catholic Church, but he’s already capturing global attention for an unexpected detail. During a recent Holy Mass, viewers noticed the 69-year-old Pontiff pairing his traditional papal robes with a modern accessory — an Apple Watch.

Images from the service quickly spread online, igniting amused reactions across social media. “The Pope wearing an Apple Watch gets me every time,” one user joked, while another called the sight “surreal.” Many couldn’t help but laugh at the striking contrast between centuries-old ritual and contemporary technology.

Faith Meets the Digital Age

Born in Chicago as Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, Pope Leo XIV officially assumed his role earlier this month. Since then, he has spoken out on major global issues, urging peace in Ukraine, calling for a ceasefire in Gaza, and welcoming diplomatic progress between India and Pakistan.

Yet it was the smartwatch on his wrist that stole the spotlight. Tech site 9to5Mac even shared close-up images, noting, “Pope Leo XIV is making waves in both faith and tech circles.”

Interestingly, past photos suggest he wore the device even before becoming Pope — signaling a leader comfortable blending tradition with modern life.