How to Use Double Tap Gesture on Any Apple Watch [watchOS 10]

Apple has unveiled the Double Tap gesture and Night Mode in the latest Apple Watch Ultra 2 & Series 9. In this post, I will guide you on using the Double Tap gesture to manage calls and music swiftly by simply tapping your thumb and index finger together, elevating your interactive experience.

For users of older models like Series 3 and above, alternatives like AssistiveTouch and Quick Actions provide similar control. Discover how to enjoy the Double Tap gesture on your Series 9 and Ultra 2, and how to replicate this functionality on earlier models.

What’s Double Tap Gesture on Apple Watch?

The Double Tap Gesture is a novel feature on the Apple Watch, enabling users to execute common actions by swiftly tapping their watch hand’s index finger and thumb together twice, all without touching the screen.

Note: Requires Apple Watch Series 9 or Ultra 2 and watchOS 10 or later for optimal functionality.

How does the Apple Watch double tap feature work?

The Double Tap feature on the Apple Watch is powered by the Neural Engine in the S9 chipset. Utilizing a new algorithm, it harnesses the accelerometer, gyroscope, and heart sensor to detect precise wrist movements and changes in blood flow when you perform the double tap gesture. This feature simplifies task management, enhancing the user experience.

You can use the Double Tap function to:

• Answer/end calls
• Manage timers
• Control music
• Snooze alarms
• Access Smart Stack
• Navigate screens

Also, Double-tap the watch face to launch Smart Stacks, and continue to double-tap to scroll through.

How to Enable and Use Double Tap on the Apple Watch Series 9 & Ultra 2

Double Tap comes activated by default in watchOS 10, requiring no setup. However, if it’s disabled for some reason, follow these steps to enable it:

• Open the Settings app on your Apple Watch. Scroll down to find “Gestures”.

• Select “Double Tap“.

• Toggle on “Double Tap” to begin utilizing the gesture.

• To use, swiftly double-tap your thumb and index finger together on your watch hand.

Note: Double Tap and AssistiveTouch cannot be used simultaneously. Disable AssistiveTouch in Settings to use Double Tap.

How to Enable Double Tap (Pinch) on Older Apple Watch Models

The Double Tap gesture is exclusive to certain models as said above, yet Apple Watch Series 4 and newer have similar gesture controls within Accessibility settings. Here’s how to activate and utilize them:

• Open Settings on your Apple Watch, then tap Accessibility.

• Select AssistiveTouch.

• Toggle AssistiveTouch to on/green.

• Enable Hand Gestures.

• Four gestures are available for action assignment, Customize each gesture’s function by tapping on them:
  • Pinch: Execute by tapping your thumb and forefinger together.
  • Double Pinch: Quickly double-tap your thumb and forefinger.
  • Clench: Make a fist.
  • Double Clench: Rapidly make a fist twice.

• Various actions like tapping, moving forward/backward, pressing, or turning the Digital Crown can be assigned to each gesture.

• Assign and practice each gesture to ensure it triggers the desired action.

Start Utilizing the Double Tap Feature Now!

That’s it! Now you know how to use the Double Tap feature on your Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2. It’s easy and fun. Double tap to check messages, pause music, and more. Additionally, you can use similar gesture controls on your older Apple Watch models.

FAQ’s