Apple Introduces Gesture Control Feature “Double Tap” on Apple Watch Series 9
In a move towards a touch-free future, Apple has unveiled its latest gesture control feature called “Double Tap” on the newly released Apple Watch Series 9. The tool allows users to control the device by tapping their index finger and thumb together twice in the air. This feature offers an effective hands-free way to interact with the small screen of the Apple Watch.
The Double Tap feature works in combination with the accelerometer, gyroscope, and optical heart rate sensor of the Apple Watch Series 9. By detecting disruptions in blood flow when the fingers are pressed together, the device responds accordingly. This data is processed by a new machine learning algorithm running on a faster neural engine, specialized hardware for AI and machine learning tasks.
While similar gesture controls were available on the previous generation of Apple Watch Ultra through the Assistive Touch accessibility tool, Apple’s decision to bring this feature to the forefront suggests a shift towards touch-free technology. This comes just three months after the company unveiled the Vision Pro mixed reality headset, which will also feature finger tap control.
The Double Tap gesture control aims to simplify the Apple Watch experience, unlike the Vision Pro, which tracks users’ eyes and hand movements. Apple states that the addition of gesture control to the headset was necessary for a different and seamless interface, while Double Tap focuses on streamlining watch interactions.
When the Apple Watch’s display is turned on, it automatically responds when the fingers are touched together, acting as a “yes” or “accept” button. For example, users can accept a call by Double Tapping or pause and play music with the same gesture. The action works better when the watch is raised slightly higher, although it may appear more obvious to onlookers.
Annette Zimmerman, an analyst at Gartner Research, comments on the social acceptance of this gesture in public, stating that it may take time for users to find it acceptable. However, she notes that Apple focuses on user feedback to continuously improve its products.
Apple is not the only tech company developing gesture controls, with Samsung TVs, certain smartphones, and Microsoft’s mixed reality headset also incorporating similar functionality. However, Apple’s incorporation of gesture controls on its flagship Apple Watch will likely garner significant attention and solidify the device as the leading smartwatch.
Sachin Mehta, a senior analyst at ABI Research, praises Apple’s move, saying it sets the company apart in terms of innovation and ease of usability. He believes the Double Tap gesture was not surprising given Apple’s consistent development of a unified and intuitive user experience across its product lineup. He also suggests that more gesture features can be expected in Apple’s future product lineup.
In addition to Double Tap, the Apple Watch Series 9 features Apple’s latest powerful in-house silicon chip and ultrawideband connectivity. The device allows users to log health data with their voice, share contact information by touching another Apple Watch, and automatically brighten the display by raising their wrist. The Series 9 comes in various colors, including pink, navy, red, gold, silver, and graphite.
Apple also unveiled the updated version of its rugged Ultra smartwatch line, featuring the new S9 custom chip and a new ultrawideband chip for enhanced communication. The Ultra offers more intensive tracking and displays more information on its screen.
The Apple Watch Series 9 starts at $399, while the Ultra is priced at $799. Shipping for both models begins on September 22, with the Double Tap feature set to launch via a software update next month.