Uncover the Concealed Helpful Functionality in Your Pixel Phone’s Settings

Activating the back-tap gesture on your Pixel phone is quite simple. Here’s the process:

1. Open the Settings application.
2. Select “System.”
3. Tap “Gestures.”
4. Go to “Quick Tap to start actions.”
5. Turn on “Use Quick Tap.”
6. Under “Tap back of phone twice to,” choose your desired action:
   1. Take a screenshot: Captures a screenshot as usual.
   2. Access your digital assistant: Activates Gemini or Google Assistant, based on your initial choice of digital assistant (note: Gemini is set to fully replace Google Assistant in 2026, indicating that the AI assistant may be your sole option moving forward).
   3. Play or pause media: Controls audio and video playback.
   4. See recent apps: Displays the list of recent apps.
   5. Show notifications: Reveals your current notifications.
   6. Toggle flashlight: Activates the LED flash.
   7. Open app: Starts an app of your choice.

If you select “Open app,” press the gear icon to choose your preferred application. Some apps provide multiple actions, which you can explore by tapping the gear icon next to the app. For example, Camera allows you to choose between launching the app, recording a video, or snapping a selfie.

Once you’ve set up Quick Tap, try double-tapping the back of your phone, ideally in the center area. It should automatically execute the action you configured. If you wish to prevent accidental triggering of Quick Tap—such as when you’re simply holding your device or it’s stored in your pocket or bag—you can enable “Require stronger taps” from the Quick Tap menu.