How to Utilize the Double Tap Gesture on Any Apple Watch

Double Tap stands out as a standout feature on the Apple Watch Ultra 2 and Series 9, allowing users to navigate watchOS with a pinch gesture when one hand is occupied. However, the good news is that you don’t necessarily need the latest models to enjoy this functionality. Even on older Apple Watch models, you can replicate a similar experience, although not precisely identical to the Double Tap feature advertised by Apple.

Using Double Tap with AssistiveTouch

AssistiveTouch, initially designed for those with limb differences, proves to be a versatile tool, especially when your hands are full. While it offers more customization than Double Tap, utilizing the gyroscope, optical heart rate sensor, and accelerometer, it brings a unique control aspect to your Apple Watch. To enable Double Tap with AssistiveTouch:

1. Launch the Settings app on your Apple Watch.
2. Scroll down and tap on Accessibility.
3. In the Motor section, find and tap on AssistiveTouch.
4. Toggle on AssistiveTouch and ensure Hand Gestures below is enabled.

Once Hand Gestures are enabled, customize Pinch, Double Pinch, Clench, and Double Clench gestures. There’s also an Activation Gesture that must be performed before using any of these gestures, which can be customized in the Activation Gesture setting.

Using Double Tap with Quick Actions

Quick Actions present another method to replicate Double Tap on older Apple Watch models. This feature allows you to execute specific tasks by pinching two fingers together, providing a simpler alternative compared to AssistiveTouch. To enable Quick Actions:

1. Navigate to Settings > Accessibility > Quick Actions on your Apple Watch.
2. Tap On to activate the feature.

While AssistiveTouch and Quick Actions offer convenient alternatives for hands-free interaction with your Apple Watch, it’s worth noting that the robustness of the Double Tap feature may be more pronounced in the 2023 Apple Watch models equipped with the powerful S9 chip. Nonetheless, these methods provide practical solutions when touching the screen is not feasible.