What is the double tap feature on iPhone?

Answered by Willie Powers

The double tap feature on the iPhone, also known as Back Tap, is a convenient accessibility feature introduced in iOS 14. This feature allows users to perform specific actions by simply double-tapping on the back of their iPhone. It provides an alternative method of interaction for individuals who may have difficulty using the traditional touch gestures or buttons on the device.

To enable this feature, you’ll need to navigate to the Settings app on your iPhone. From there, scroll down and select Accessibility. Within the Accessibility menu, tap on Touch, and then choose Back Tap. Here, you can designate the actions you want to be triggered by a double tap and a triple tap.

Once you’re in the Back Tap menu, you’ll see options for both Double Tap and Triple Tap. By tapping on either of these options, you can choose from a variety of actions to assign to the respective tap gesture.

For the Double Tap option, you can choose from a range of actions including:

1. App Switcher: This action will open the app switcher, allowing you to quickly switch between recently used apps.
2. Control Center: It will open the Control Center, which provides quick access to various settings and shortcuts.
3. Home: This action simulates pressing the home button, returning you to the home screen.
4. Lock Screen: It locks your iPhone, putting it to sleep.
5. Mute: It mutes or unmutes your device.
6. Notification Center: It opens the Notification Center, where you can view your recent notifications.
7. Reachability: It activates Reachability mode, bringing the top of the screen down for easier access.
8. Siri: This action will launch Siri, allowing you to perform voice commands and queries.

Similarly, the Triple Tap option allows you to assign a different set of actions, providing more customization and versatility to suit your needs and preferences.

For each of these actions, you can enable both Double Tap and Triple Tap, assigning different actions to each gesture. This flexibility makes the Back Tap feature incredibly useful and adaptable to individual preferences.

Now, whenever you double-tap or triple-tap on the back of your iPhone, the designated actions will be triggered instantly, offering a quick and convenient way to perform various tasks without having to navigate through menus or use traditional touch gestures.

I personally find the Back Tap feature to be a game-changer in terms of accessibility and convenience. It allows me to perform actions quickly and effortlessly, especially when my hands are occupied or when I need to access certain functions swiftly. Whether I need to switch between apps, activate Siri, or lock my device, the double tap feature has become an integral part of my iPhone experience.

The double tap feature, also known as Back Tap, on the iPhone is an accessibility feature introduced in iOS 14. It enables users to assign specific actions to double-tap and triple-tap gestures on the back of their devices, providing a convenient and customizable method of interaction. By accessing the Back Tap settings in the Accessibility menu, users can assign actions such as opening the app switcher, activating Siri, or locking the device. This feature enhances accessibility and streamlines the user experience, offering a quicker and more intuitive way to perform tasks on the iPhone.