How to use Back Tap gestures on iPhone

Double-tap the back of your iPhone® and launch your camera. Triple tap and open your favorite app. With iPhone Back Tap gestures, you can customize how your phone responds to these quick taps—no buttons required.

Asurion Experts are here to help you get more from your tech. Whether you’re exploring new iOS® accessibility features or just want a faster way to use your iPhone, here’s our guide to setting up Back Tap gestures and making them your own.

What are iPhone Back Tap gestures?

Back Tap is an iOS accessibility feature that lets you assign custom actions to a double or triple tap on the back of your phone. It works even if you’re using a case and can launch things like:

• Control Center
• Camera
• Volume controls
• Shortcuts
• App Switcher
• Accessibility tools like Magnifier or VoiceOver

This feature is available on iPhone 8 and later running iOS 14 or higher.

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How to enable Back Tap on iPhone

To turn on and customize Back Tap gestures:

1. Open Settings.
2. Tap Accessibility.
3. Under Touch, select Back Tap.
4. Choose Double Tap or Triple Tap.
5. Pick the action you want to assign from the list.

Once set, just tap the back of your iPhone the selected number of times to trigger the action.

How to customize Back Tap for shortcuts

Want even more control? You can link Back Tap to your custom Shortcuts.

1. Go to Settings > Accessibility > Touch > Back Tap.
2. Choose a tap type.
3. Scroll to the Shortcuts section and select one you’ve already created.

This lets you launch apps, send texts, turn on lights—anything you’ve automated in the Shortcuts app.

Why use Back Tap?

Back Tap makes it easier to perform everyday tasks—especially if reaching the top of your screen is difficult or you want a hands-free solution. It’s a helpful tool for anyone looking to personalize their iPhone or use iOS accessibility features in a creative way.

FAQ

What iPhones support Back Tap gestures?

Back Tap is available on iPhone 8 and newer models running iOS® 14 or later.

Can I use Back Tap with a case on my iPhone?

Yes. Most cases won’t interfere with Back Tap recognition, though thick or rugged cases might reduce sensitivity.

How do I turn off Back Tap?

Go to Settings > Accessibility > Touch > Back Tap, then set both Double Tap and Triple Tap to None.

Can I launch apps with Back Tap?

Yes, by creating a Shortcut for the app and assigning it through the Back Tap settings.