Apple has recently announced a new feature for their latest Apple Watch models, the Series 9 and Ultra 2. This feature, called the Double Tap gesture, allows users to interact with the system without touching the screen. However, Apple stated that this feature would not be available at launch and would be introduced later this year. Now, with the release of watchOS 10.1, users will finally be able to take advantage of the new Double Tap gesture.
The Double Tap gesture on the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 allows users to tap their thumb and index finger together twice to trigger certain actions in watchOS. This gesture can be used to dismiss notifications, snooze alarms, and even answer calls. Apple claims that the improved algorithms of the new S9 chip inside these models can detect the unique signature of tiny wrist movements and changes in blood flow when the thumb and index finger perform a double tap. However, some users who have already purchased the Apple Watch Series 9 or Ultra 2 might have noticed that there is currently no way to enable this feature.
Luckily, with the release of watchOS 10.1, which is currently available to developers as a beta version, the new Double Tap gesture will be accessible to those with the latest Apple Watch models. However, in the beta version, there is still no option to turn on the new gesture. It is expected that this feature will be fully enabled when watchOS 10.1 is released to the public, which is planned for sometime in October.
For those who do not have the latest Apple Watch models but still want to use the Double Tap gesture, there is still a way to do so. In fact, the Double Tap gesture was first introduced as an accessibility feature in 2021. To enable it on previous Apple Watch models, users can go to the Accessibility settings on their device and look for Quick Actions. By enabling this option, they will be able to use the Double Tap gesture to interact with the system. However, it is important to note that the gesture might not be as precise and optimized on older models due to the lack of advanced algorithms in the older chips.
In conclusion, the new Double Tap gesture is an exciting addition to the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2. With watchOS 10.1, users will finally have the ability to use this gesture and perform various actions without touching the screen. For those with older Apple Watch models, there is still a way to utilize this feature by enabling it through the Accessibility settings. Apple fans can look forward to the official release of watchOS 10.1 in October, which will bring this new gesture to all users.