Use double tap to perform common actions on Apple Watch

On supported models, you can use the double tap gesture to answer a call, reply to a message, see and scroll through your Smart Stack, scroll through supported apps, and more.

Perform the double tap gesture

Tap your index finger and thumb together twice.

Customize the double tap gesture

You can choose what double tap does when playing media or navigating your Smart Stack.

Go to the Settings app on your Apple Watch.
Tap Gestures, tap Double Tap, then choose from among these options:
- Playback: Choose Play/Pause or Skip.
- Smart Stack: Choose Advance or Select.
Turn off Double Tap if you don’t want to use the gesture on your Apple Watch.

You can also go to the Apple Watch app on your iPhone, tap My Watch, go to Settings > Gestures, then tap Double Tap.

When double tap isn’t available

If you use double tap on a screen that doesn’t support the gesture, shakes from side to side.

Note: The double tap gesture isn’t supported in the following situations:

Low Power Mode is turned on.
Sleep Focus is active.
The display is inactive because your wrist is down.
Apple Watch is locked.
Accessibility features that use hand gestures are turned on.
Apple Watch is set up for a family member.

For more information, see the Apple Support article If double tap isn’t working on your Apple Watch.

Helpful?

Apple Watch User Guide

Use double tap to perform common actions on Apple Watch

Perform the double tap gesture

Customize the double tap gesture

When double tap isn’t available