Recent iPhones offer many options to simplify daily use, and one of the most practical is the double-tap to wake the screen. This feature allows you to quickly wake your phone without pressing the side button, which quickly becomes a natural reflex for many users.
But how exactly do you activate it? Which models support it and what tips can help you make the most of it?
Why use double-tap to wake the screen?
Waking the screen with a double-tap is a time and comfort saver.
- No need to search for the side button.
- Ideal for one-handed use.
- Reduces wear on the physical button in the long term.
- Compatible with all situations, even when the phone is placed on a table.
This option is particularly useful for iPhones equipped with OLED or Super Retina displays, where touch responsiveness is optimal.
Which iPhones support this feature?
Not all recent models necessarily have the double-tap to wake the screen. This feature is available on:
- iPhone X and later models (X series, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15).
- iPhone SE (2nd and 3rd generation) only with certain accessibility gestures.
If your model is older, you can use other accessibility shortcuts, but native double-tap is not available.
How to activate double-tap on the iPhone screen?
Activation is done from Settings in a few simple steps:
- Open the Settings app.
- Go to Accessibility > Touch.
- Enable the Tap twice to wake iPhone option.
Once this option is enabled, simply tap twice on the locked screen to wake it. You can then quickly access notifications, the camera, or the control center.
Tips to optimize double-tap
To fully benefit from this function:
- Adjust touch sensitivity: some iPhones allow you to calibrate responsiveness to avoid accidental taps.
- Enable notification preview on the locked screen: double-tap + visible notifications makes for quick reading.
- Combine with “Raise to Wake”: if you prefer to lift the phone to wake the screen, this option can remain enabled in parallel.
- Check thick cases: some very rigid cases may reduce double-tap sensitivity.
These adjustments allow for smooth and natural use, without missed gestures.
Difference between double-tap and Tap to Wake
It is important to distinguish between double-tap and Tap to Wake:
- Tap to Wake: a single tap is enough to wake the screen. Available on iPhone X and later.
- Double-tap: two consecutive taps to wake the screen. Useful if you want to avoid accidental activations.
Depending on your habits, one or the other may be preferred, or even combined with “Raise to Wake” for more flexibility.
Other functions related to the locked screen
Double-tap is just one part of the quick access options on iPhone:
- Control center accessible from the locked screen: swipe down from the top right corner.
- Instant camera: swipe the screen to the left to open the camera.
- Interactive notifications: tap on a notification to respond quickly.
These combined options make the locked screen much more interactive and quick to use.
