7 Ways to Fix Double Tap Gesture Not Working on Apple Watch

The handy double-tap gesture on the Apple Watch lets you quickly access shortcuts and apps, but can suddenly stop working for some users. If your Apple Watch is not responding to double taps as expected, don't panic. In most cases, this issue can be fixed with a few troubleshooting steps. Here are 7 ways to get the double tap gesture working again on your Apple Watch.

1. Ensure You Have a Compatible Apple Watch Model

Before troubleshooting, first check if your Apple Watch model actually supports the double tap gesture. Currently, this feature is only available on the Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 models.

If you have an older Apple Watch model, you won't be able to use the native double-tap gesture. However, Apple's AssistiveTouch accessibility feature can add a similar double-tap function to older models.

2. Make Sure You're Performing the Gesture Correctly

If double tap isn't working on a compatible Apple Watch, make sure you're actually performing the gesture properly. To double tap, quickly tap with your thumb and index finger on the side of the Apple Watch twice in rapid succession.

The taps need to be firm and distinct for the Watch to recognize it. Try practicing the double tap a few extra times once you get it working to get the timing and pressure right. An improper double tap could be the issue.

3. Toggle Double Tap On and Off in Settings

Go to the Apple Watch Settings> Gestures > Double Tap. Here you'll see a toggle for the double tap feature. Turn it off and back on again. Toggling the gesture off and on can reset it and make it work again in some cases. Test it out after toggling.

4. Unpair and Repair the Apple Watch

If other options don't work, unpair your Apple Watch from your iPhone and then pair it again. Unpairing deletes your Apple Watch data and resets the software.

To unpair, open the Watch app > Tap your watch name > Unpair. Then pair the watch again as new by following the setup process. Repairing can resolve many system issues.

5. Install watchOS Updates

Ensuring your Apple Watch is running the latest watchOS version is crucial for getting the double tap. You need watchOS 10.1 or later for full support of the double tap feature.

On your paired iPhone, open the Watch app and go to General > Software Update. This will check for any available watchOS updates for your Apple Watch.

If a new watchOS update is available, tap Download and Install to update your Apple Watch to the latest version. Make sure to install watchOS 10.1 or higher, as this version contains the new double-tap gesture.

6. Restart Your Apple Watch and iPhone

Restarting clears out minor glitches that may be preventing the double-tap gesture from registering.

To restart your Apple Watch, press and hold the side button until the power off slider appears. Drag the slider to turn it off completely. Wait for 30 seconds and then press the side button again to turn the watch back on.

For the iPhone, press and hold the power button and slide to power off. Wait 30 seconds and turn it on again.

Test if the double taps are working after restarting both devices. This can resolve many intermittent software issues.

7. Get Your Apple Watch Serviced

If you've tried all other troubleshooting tips and the double tap still doesn't work, it could be a hardware issue needing professional repair. Take your Apple Watch to an Apple store or authorized service center for evaluation. Problems with the components can affect the double tap sensor, requiring service or replacement. Don't try to repair this hardware yourself.

Conclusion

After trying resets, updates, repairs, and adjustments, your Apple Watch's double-tap gesture should be working properly again. If not, contact Apple support for help fixing persisting hardware or software issues that prevent the gesture from registering.