Apple Unveils watchOS 10.1 With a Spotlight on Double Tap and NameDrop

Apple never ceases to amaze, and their latest software update for Apple Watches proves it yet again. Meet watchOS 10.1 – a complimentary update for Apple Watch users that brings about some long-awaited enhancements and refinements.

watchOS 10.1 ushers in Double Tap, NameDrop, as well as some security and bug patches.

To get access to the new features, update your Apple Watch to watchOS 10.1.

Double Tap

With watchOS 10.1, Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 users are in for a treat. The new and exclusive Double Tap gesture provides a refined user experience.

While those with older Apple Watch models don’t have access to the improved Double Tap, they can still use the less refined Accessibility version.

We had hands-on access to Double Tap a couple weeks ago in the beta update, allowing us to write the full how to use Double Tap guide.

From Apple:

The double tap gesture is a unique way to interact with your Apple Watch, minimizing screen touches. By simply tapping the index finger and thumb of the hand wearing the watch, users can swiftly carry out numerous familiar actions. This gesture not only gives instant access to the Smart Stack on the watch face but also allows easy scrolling through widgets.

Additionally, the double tap gesture acts as the main button within apps. This means you can halt a timer, shuffle your playlist, snooze your morning alarm, and so much more. It’s versatile, handling tasks from answering phone calls to launching the various applications.

NameDrop

Not to be overshadowed by the Double Tap, watchOS 10.1 introduces ‘NameDrop’ to the Apple ecosystem.

Unlike the Double Tap gesture, NameDrop isn’t confined to just the Series 9 and Ultra 2, all watches running 10.1 will be able to use this feature.

It’s a quick way to share specific contact details between Apple Watches and iPhones.

Drawing inspiration from AirDrop, initiating a NameDrop is a breeze from the Contacts app on watchOS 10.1, especially when a compatible watch or phone is in close proximity.

watchOS 10.1 Apple Watch Compatibility List

Here is a full list of every Apple Watch that is compatible with 10.1:

Keep in mind that watchOS 10.1 is only supported on iOS 17.1, which requires an iPhone XS or newer. If you have an iPhone X or older, you won’t have access to this update.

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