Before you take the field
What does CallHome do?+
A coach selects a pitch and location on an iPhone. The call is delivered one way to the player's Apple Watch using the private Watch code shared by the coach.
Do the iPhone and Apple Watch need to be paired?+
No. The coach's iPhone and the receiving Apple Watch operate independently. A player can use their own Watch, or a team can keep a shared team Watch, including an older Apple Watch that is still compatible with the app. Each device needs network access, and both apps use the same private Watch code.
How does a player receive the pitch call?+
The player can see the pitch and location on Apple Watch, hear a spoken call through AirPods connected to the Watch, or receive haptic feedback on the Watch. The player, coach, and team can choose the method that works best for them, provided that method is permitted by their game rules.
Can a catcher or pitcher wear an AirPod during a game?+
CallHome supports spoken calls through connected AirPods, but permission depends on the organization, player position, season, and event. For example, PGF limits in-ear audio receivers to the catcher, and other rules may limit eligible receivers or classify earbuds separately. Confirm AirPod use with the umpire-in-chief or event director before the game.
How much does it cost?+
The player Watch app is free. The coach iPhone app includes 50 live pitch calls at no charge, then costs $9.99 per month.
Can I customize pitches?+
Yes. Baseball and softball keep separate six-pitch defaults. Coaches can rename the buttons for individual pitchers and save profiles for up to 10 pitchers.
Is the Watch code a password?+
Treat it like one. Only give the Watch code to the player or players who should receive your calls. If it is shared accidentally, change it in the coach app and update the intended Watch.
Official one-way communication rules
National Rule 7.01.M
The national baseball rule permits one-way electronic signaling devices to be worn by players. Local events may publish additional equipment restrictions, so Apple Watch acceptance should be confirmed with the event director.
Official USSSA Baseball rules (PDF) ↗Rule 2, Section 13
USSSA Fastpitch authorizes commercially available, exclusively one-way systems, while prohibiting two-way communication devices on the field. Because an Apple Watch can support two-way functions outside CallHome, individual USSSA events may classify the hardware differently. Obtain event approval before using CallHome in USSSA Fastpitch play.
Official USSSA Fastpitch rules (PDF) ↗Rule 5.9.9
PGF permits one-way electronic devices for calling a pitch or play. Digital wristband-style devices may be used by defensive players; in-ear, hat, or helmet audio devices are limited to the catcher. A device worn on offense may not be used.
Official Premier Girls Fastpitch rule page ↗Rule 3.17 exception
Little League permits a manager or coach in the dugout to use one-way communication to the catcher while the team is on defense for calling pitches. Communication to other defensive players or anyone on offense is prohibited.
Official Little League rule update ↗2026: Rules 1-6-2 and 3-2-5
For the 2026 season, one-way communication is permitted from a coach in the dugout to the catcher on defense for calling pitches. The 2027 rule change expands eligible receivers to the pitcher and/or catcher. State associations may impose additional policies.
Official NFHS Baseball rules page ↗2026: Rules 1-8-6 and 3-6-11
For the 2026 season, a coach in the dugout may send one-way calls to the catcher while the team is on defense. NFHS specifically interprets a smartwatch as legal when it is used only to receive those one-way calls. Beginning in 2027, the pitcher and catcher may receive calls.
Official NFHS Softball interpretation ↗Use it the right way
- 1Check the event rules.
Confirm the current season, sanction, age group, and any local tournament modifications.
- 2Confirm the eligible receiver.
Some rules allow only the catcher; others permit additional defensive players.
- 3Show the equipment before the game.
Ask the umpire-in-chief or event director to confirm the Apple Watch and your chosen display, haptic, or AirPod receiving method are accepted.
- 4Keep the coach in the permitted area.
Many rules require the transmitting coach to remain in the dugout or bench area.
- 5Use CallHome only one way.
The player receives the call and does not send an electronic response.
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