Introducing the Enhanced Gesture Features on Apple Watch
In 2023, Apple unveiled the Double Tap functionality for its Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 models. This clever feature empowers users to carry out standard tasks, such as answering calls or launching a song, with a simple double tap of their thumb and index finger. It provides a seamless method to indicate an action without the need for pressing the minuscule touchscreen buttons. However, what if there’s a situation where you wish to dismiss an alert? Enter Wrist Flick, introduced with watchOS 26, which specifically addresses this need.
Compatible with the Apple Watch Series 9 (and newer) as well as the Apple Watch Ultra 2 (and newer), Wrist Flick serves as a counterpart to the Double Tap. If an unwanted notification appears or a call comes in that you prefer to silence, a quick flick of your wrist will allow you to effectively dismiss it, as if throwing it into a wastebasket.
To begin using this feature, ensure that watchOS 26 is installed on your Apple Watch. Pair it with an iPhone running iOS 26, open the Apple Watch application, go to General > Software Update, and start the update process for watchOS. Alternatively, check that Automatic Updates are enabled; as long as your iPhone is on iOS 26, your watch will automatically update during charging, typically overnight.
Once the installation of watchOS 26 is complete, wear your watch and head over to Settings > Gestures. Activate the Wrist Flick option.
After completing those steps, simply wait for an incoming notification or call, or when a timer goes off. A quick wrist flick will allow you to silence it. This may require some practice; the technique involves rotating your wrist away from your body, as illustrated on Apple’s website.
When paired with the Double Tap feature, users can manage most basic actions on the Apple Watch without needing to interact with the touchscreen. This design aims to minimize interruptions during workouts or casual moments—like when commuting on the subway. It’s worth noting, however, that while Double Tap can be customized with a variety of mapping functions, Wrist Flick currently maintains its default setting for dismissals. This means it lacks the versatility to perform actions like navigating back a tile in your Smart Stack, a function that Double Tap can handle. Hopefully, future updates will enhance its capabilities.
