In a bid to redefine smartwatch interactions, Samsung’s Galaxy Watch takes center stage, offering a versatile range of gestures that outshine Apple’s limited double-tap feature. Samsung’s celebration of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities brings attention to its advanced gesture controls, providing Galaxy Watch users with an array of options that go beyond the basics.
I. Unlocking the Power of Universal Gestures
Unlike Apple’s Series 9 and Ultra Watch 2, which primarily rely on a double-tap gesture, Samsung’s One UI 5.1 update, introduced with the Galaxy Watch 6 in August, introduces a more sophisticated gesture system. To activate this feature, users can navigate to settings, tap on “Accessibility,” proceed to “Interaction and dexterity,” and select “Universal gestures.” Enabling the feature initiates a tutorial to guide users through the new functionality.
II. A Symphony of Gestures
Samsung’s universal gestures include making a fist, making a fist twice, pinch, and double-pinch. Each gesture is associated with default actions such as next item, previous item, tap, and action menu. Notably, the double-pinch gesture aligns with Apple’s double-tap, providing users with a familiar yet enhanced experience.
III. Customization at Your Fingertips
The flexibility doesn’t stop there. Galaxy Watch users can customize gesture actions based on personal preferences. Options include “go to previous screen,” “open Bixby,” and “app launcher.” The activation gesture itself can be tailored, offering choices like “auto activate when the screen is on,” “shake gesture,” “knock-knock gesture,” and “nod gesture.”
IV. Revolutionizing Accessibility
Samsung’s gesture controls extend beyond mere functionality, introducing a cursor scan capability that transforms the watch into a single-hand operation. The customizable focus indicator enhances the user experience, allowing individuals to tailor the interface to their preferences.
V. A Challenge to the Status Quo
While Apple provides a straightforward, always-on functionality with limited use cases, Samsung’s Galaxy Watch presents a dynamic and customizable platform. The reliability of the gestures in response to movements showcases Samsung’s commitment to innovation. As we approach winter, with gloves potentially hindering traditional interactions, exploring the power of universal gestures on the Galaxy Watch becomes a compelling proposition.
