The latest update, watchOS 26, has introduced a fantastic new feature for Apple Watch users that I can't get enough of: the wrist flick gesture. This upgrade has brought several enhancements to the device, but the wrist flick stands out as a particularly exciting innovation. Let’s dive into how this gesture functions and the various ways I've been utilizing it.
The wrist flick gesture complements the previously added double tap feature, both designed to enhance hands-free operation of the Apple Watch.
- Double Tap – This gesture made its debut with the Apple Watch Series 9 in 2023.
- Wrist Flick – This gesture is brand new with the latest update.
While I've experienced some issues with the reliability of the double tap in the past, I’ve noticed improvements recently. However, the wrist flick has quickly become a favorite of mine in watchOS 26. This gesture allows you to swiftly dismiss various types of notifications with just a flick of your wrist.
To use the wrist flick, simply move your wrist backward and then forward quickly. This motion allows you to easily dismiss:
- Notifications
- Apps
- Phone calls
- Timers
- Alarms
That's five common types of content that you can manage without needing to touch the screen or the Digital Crown.
In my experience, adapting to using the wrist flick along with the double tap does take a little practice. The more I've consciously tried to incorporate the wrist flick into my routine, the more automatic and intuitive it has become.
I've grown accustomed to dismissing notifications with a wrist flick, but I recently discovered that it can also close apps. Previously, returning to the watch face required pressing the Digital Crown, but now I can do it seamlessly and hands-free.
Additionally, using the wrist flick to silence timers and alarms has been incredibly convenient. Timers often go off at inopportune moments—like when my hands are full while washing dishes—so being able to just flick my wrist to silence them is a game changer.
If you haven’t yet explored the wrist flick gesture in watchOS 26, I highly recommend keeping it in mind the next time you need to close an app, dismiss a notification, or mute a timer. It's a simple yet effective trick that truly enhances the overall Apple Watch experience.
The wrist flick gesture is available on the Apple Watch Ultra 3 and 2, the Apple Watch Series 11, 10, and 9, as well as the Apple Watch SE 3.
Have you had the chance to try out the wrist flick in watchOS 26? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!
Recommended Apple Watch Accessories
- AirPods Pro 3 – Now priced at only $229, reduced from $249.
- Portable USB-C Charger for Apple Watch.
- Retro Mac Stand for Apple Watch Nightstand Mode.
- Anker 20W USB-C Charging Brick.
- Metal Adjustable Link Apple Watch Band.
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