Apple recently released release candidate versions of iOS 15.2, watchOS 8.3, and others. It has now been discovered that watchOS 8.3 extends AssistiveTouch to older Apple Watch models.
Apple first introduced the feature in May to make its products accessible to as many people as possible. AssistiveTouch uses a combination of data from the Apple Watch's built-in sensors to detect subtle changes in muscle movement and tendon activity. With gestures such as a clinch or a touch, users can control their Apple Watch without touching the screen. This is how Apple promotes the feature:
watchOS 8.3 coming soon
AssistiveTouch for watchOS enables people with upper limb disabilities to use Apple Watch without touching the display or controls. Using built-in motion sensors and on-device learning, Apple Watch detects subtle differences in muscle movement and tendon activity and lets you control the display using hand gestures like a pinch or squeeze. This feature also works with VoiceOver, so you can use Apple Watch with one hand while using a cane or walking a pet. Answer incoming calls, control an on-screen motion pointer, and access Notification Center, Control Center, and more.
This feature was previously only available on newer Apple Watch models, such as the Series 6 and Apple Watch SE. With watchOS 8.3 (via Aaron Zollo) the function is now being extended to older Apple Watch models such as the Apple Watch Series 4 and Series 5. (Photo by New Africa / Bigstockphoto)
