What does it mean to 'watch' an issue in Jira?

When you 'watch' an issue in Jira, you are essentially opting in to receive notifications about any changes or updates related to that specific issue. This includes receiving alerts when comments are added, the issue is updated, or any status changes occur. Being a watcher helps you stay informed about the issue's progress without the need to actively check its status regularly.

This functionality is particularly useful for team members or stakeholders who need to monitor the issue but may not be directly involved in its resolution. It allows individuals to be aware of important developments, ensuring they can stay engaged and respond if necessary.

While receiving updates via email can be a part of the notification process, being a watcher primarily means you are notified through the system, which could be in-app notifications or other forms set by your preferences. Therefore, the focus is on receiving updates regarding the issue rather than just updates via email.