Uploaded July 2026 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago
How to Use the Tap Feature on AirPods 1st and 2nd Generation
The original AirPods (1st generation) and AirPods (2nd generation) use a double-tap gesture on the top of the stem to control functions. Unlike newer AirPods Pro models, they do not use the press-and-hold force sensor.
Where to Tap
Put your AirPods in your ears.
Tap the upper part of the AirPod stem (near the top, below the speaker section).
Quickly tap twice with your finger.
You should hear a small sound confirming the command.
How to Change What Double Tap Does
You can customize the left and right AirPods separately.
Connect your AirPods to your iPhone.
Open Settings.
Tap Bluetooth.
Find your AirPods.
Tap the ⓘ info button next to them.
Under Double-Tap on AirPod, choose Left or Right.
Select the action you want.
Double Tap Options
You can set each AirPod to do one of these:
Siri
Double tap to activate Siri.
Play/Pause
Double tap to:
Pause music
Resume music
Next Track
Double tap to skip to the next song.
Previous Track
Double tap to go back to the previous song.
Answering Phone Calls
When a call comes in:
Double tap either AirPod.
The call will answer.
To end the call, double tap again.
Tips If Double Tap Is Not Working
Make sure Bluetooth is connected.
Make sure the AirPods have battery power.
Tap the top of the stem, not the charging case.
Try resetting the AirPods:
Put them in the case.
Hold the button on the back until the light flashes amber, then white.
Pair them again.
Important Difference
AirPods 1 & 2: Double tap the stem
AirPods Pro 1, Pro 2, AirPods 3, AirPods 4: Press the stem force sensor instead of tapping.
This would make a good companion video to your newer AirPods controls video because many people upgrading from AirPods 1 or 2 are confused when the double-tap feature disappears.
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualified purchases.
How to Use the Tap Feature on AirPods 1st and 2nd Generation
The original AirPods (1st generation) and AirPods (2nd generation) use a double-tap gesture on the top of the stem to control functions. Unlike newer AirPods Pro models, they do not use the press-and-hold force sensor.
Where to Tap
Put your AirPods in your ears.
Tap the upper part of the AirPod stem (near the top, below the speaker section).
Quickly tap twice with your finger.
You should hear a small sound confirming the command.
How to Change What Double Tap Does
You can customize the left and right AirPods separately.
Connect your AirPods to your iPhone.
Open Settings.
Tap Bluetooth.
Find your AirPods.
Tap the ⓘ info button next to them.
Under Double-Tap on AirPod, choose Left or Right.
Select the action you want.
Double Tap Options
You can set each AirPod to do one of these:
Siri
Double tap to activate Siri.
Play/Pause
Double tap to:
Pause music
Resume music
Next Track
Double tap to skip to the next song.
Previous Track
Double tap to go back to the previous song.
Answering Phone Calls
When a call comes in:
Double tap either AirPod.
The call will answer.
To end the call, double tap again.
Tips If Double Tap Is Not Working
Make sure Bluetooth is connected.
Make sure the AirPods have battery power.
Tap the top of the stem, not the charging case.
Try resetting the AirPods:
Put them in the case.
Hold the button on the back until the light flashes amber, then white.
Pair them again.
Important Difference
AirPods 1 & 2: Double tap the stem
AirPods Pro 1, Pro 2, AirPods 3, AirPods 4: Press the stem force sensor instead of tapping.
This would make a good companion video to your newer AirPods controls video because many people upgrading from AirPods 1 or 2 are confused when the double-tap feature disappears.
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualified purchases.
