{
  "id": 8446854,
  "title": "watchOS 27 eliminates this beloved Apple Watch feature",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/19/watchos-27-eliminates-this-beloved-apple-watch-feature",
  "topic": "tech",
  "section": "Tech",
  "published": "2026-09-19T11:00:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Tom's Guide",
    "slug": "tom-s-guide",
    "url": "https://www.tomsguide.com/wellness/smartwatches/watchos-27-eliminates-this-beloved-apple-watch-feature"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Apple users experiencing frustration as Apple Watch watchOS 27 removes a beloved feature. The digital crown double-tap, previously used to quickly switch between apps, has been eliminated in the latest software update. This app switcher functionality, informally known as the “app switcher,” is no longer available in watchOS 27. Users are left with the new \"Dynamic App Grid\" displaying their most-used apps instead. While impressed with other watchOS 27 features, the removal of the app switcher function is seen as a significant drawback. Apple has plans to introduce \"Audio Intelligence\" features, including \"Live Rewind,\" which allows users to replay the last 15 seconds of audio captured by their watch. However, when Live Rewind launches, the digital crown double-tap will default to opening this new feature on compatible devices. The removal of the app switcher function may prompt users to voice their concerns, potentially leading Apple to reconsider and add it back in future firmware updates.",
  "summary": "watchOS 27 is better in just about every way... with one notable exception.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}