in cruise, the autopilot is on, but it does not mean the pilots just sit there doing the days crossword puzzle. i'm no pilot but i do know what they do.
during the cruise phase they constantly communciate with various countries ATC reporting their cruising speed and altitude, make sure that they are on the correct cruising level and speed, monitor their numerous displays that provide them with engine performance, cabin temperature, and that they are on the correct course, make sure that there are no stray aircraft in front of them. this is called situational awareness and if you think the days crossword puzzle or cartoons are more important, god help us all