After years of neglect, Google is bringing back gesture controls to its wearables, starting with the Pixel Watch 4. Once a staple of early Android smartwatches, these intuitive gestures are making a comeback to enhance user experience.

The upcoming update introduces a double pinch gesture—similar to the Apple Watch—where pinching thumb and forefinger can answer calls, pause timers, and activate other functions. This feature aims to streamline interactions, especially when quick responses are needed.

Additionally, Google is refining existing gestures. Previously, wrist twists would scroll through menus; now, they dismiss notifications or end calls, making device control more natural. Experts note that such gestures reduce reliance on touchscreen taps, offering a more seamless, hands-free experience.

This revival of gesture controls aligns with industry trends toward more intuitive wearable interfaces, as research shows users increasingly prefer natural movements over complex taps. Pixel Watch 4 owners can look forward to a more fluid and effortless interaction once the update rolls out.

David Nield

Dave is a freelance tech journalist with over 20 years covering gadgets, apps, and the web. From Stockport, England, he covers news, features, and reviews for TechRadar, focusing on phones, tablets, and wearables. He ensures top weekend breaking news and has bylines at Gizmodo, T3, PopSci, and others. He edited PC Explorer and The Hardware Handbook for years. Read me on x.com or linkedin.