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How to Navigate the WearOS Interface

WearOS navigation combines swipe gestures with hardware buttons for efficient one-handed operation. Master four primary swipes and your watch's button functions to navigate quickly through any screen.


Primary Swipe Gestures

Four directional swipes access the main interface areas.

  • Swipe Up: Opens the notification shade where incoming messages, alerts, and app notifications appear. Scroll through notifications and tap any to see full content.

  • Swipe Down: Opens the quick settings panel with toggles for WiFi, Bluetooth, brightness, Do Not Disturb, and other frequently used settings.

  • Swipe Left: Activates Google Assistant or Gemini on most devices. Some watch models show recent apps instead.

  • Swipe Right: Opens the tile carousel with quick-access information widgets like weather, fitness, calendar, and music controls.


Hardware Button Functions

Physical buttons provide additional navigation shortcuts.

  • Crown Single Press: Opens the app drawer showing all installed apps. Press again to return to the watch face.

  • Crown Long Press: Activates Google Assistant or Gemini for voice commands. Some watches use this for emergency SOS.

  • Crown Double Press: Launches recently used apps or a customizable shortcut. Configure in Settings Gestures.

  • Crown Rotation: Scrolls through lists and menus, zooms on maps, and adjusts volume. Not all watches have functional rotating crowns.

  • Side Button Single Press: Wakes the display or returns to the watch face depending on current state.

  • Side Button Long Press: Opens the power menu with restart and power off options.

  • Side Button Double Press: Launches a pre-configured app like Google Wallet or Samsung Pay. Customizable on most watches.


Back Navigation

Return to previous screens using gestures or buttons.

  • Edge Swipe: Swipe from the left edge of the screen toward the center. This gesture works universally across all apps and system interfaces.

  • Button Back: Some watches assign back navigation to button presses. Check your specific model's button configuration.

  • Crown Press: Pressing the crown often returns to the watch face or exits the current app.


See Also: WearOS Interface Navigation Guide|WearOS Customization Guide|WearOS Design and Button Guide