Apple has released watchOS 10.1, which brings the highly anticipated Double Tap gesture to Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 users worldwide. This feature allows users to perform various functions and navigate menus by tapping their index finger to their thumb twice in quick succession.
The Double Tap gesture comes as a convenient option for users who may have their other hand occupied. Whether walking a dog, carrying groceries, or climbing rocks, users can now interact with their Apple Watch without needing both hands.
According to Apple, this new feature complements existing gestures like tap, swipe, raise to wake, and cover to mute, making the Apple Watch even more user-friendly and intuitive.
It’s important to note that the Double Tap gesture is separate from the existing AssistiveTouch feature, which provides controls through pinching and clenching gestures for users who are physically unable to operate the watch with their other hand. AssistiveTouch is available on all watch models from Apple Watch 4, the first Apple Watch SE, and the original Apple Watch Ultra.
To use the Double Tap gesture, users need an Apple Watch Series 9 or Apple Watch Ultra 2 with the latest S9 chip. They must also update their watch to the latest watchOS 10.1 software, accessible through the watch’s Settings > Software update.
To activate the gesture, users need to raise their wrist to wake the screen and quickly tap their index finger and thumb together twice. It’s important to disable Low Power Mode or Sleep Focus for the gesture to function properly.
The Double Tap gesture allows users to perform various operations, including answering calls, replying to messages, scrolling through widget stacks, pausing timers, snoozing alarms, playing and pausing music, and taking the primary action on incoming notifications.
Users also have the ability to customize the Double Tap gesture to some extent. They can choose between pausing music or skipping to the next track by accessing the watch’s Settings, then tapping on Gestures and Double Tap. Additionally, users can disable the feature if they prefer not to use it.
Overall, the Double Tap gesture enhances the functionality of the Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2, providing users with more options for interacting with their smartwatches.
