Introducing a quick and easy new method to engage with Apple Watch, the double tap gesture is now available with watchOS 10.1 for the Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2.
Users of the Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 can now effortlessly operate the devices with only one hand and without touching the screen thanks to the new double tap gesture. Many of the most popular actions can be swiftly completed by users by tapping the thumb and index finger of their watch hand twice. This new function enhances the already-available tap, swipe, raise to wake, and cover to mute actions on the Apple Watch, which contribute to its user-friendly interface.
The double tap gesture available on Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 is powered by the S9 SiP, which is 25 percent more power efficient than the previous generation, and the new 4-core Neural Engine, which can perform machine learning tasks twice as fast.
Using a novel machine learning method, the Neural Engine analyzes data from the accelerometer, gyroscope, and optical heart sensor. The system recognizes the distinct profile of minute alterations in blood flow and wrist movements when the thumb and index finger double tap.
The double tap gesture is available throughout the day with little effect on the 18-hour battery life of the Apple Watch Series 9 or the 36-hour battery life of the Apple Watch Ultra 2. It functions whenever the display is awake.
