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How to Quickly Switch Between Apps on the Apple Watch

Smartwatch displaying app icons on a person's wrist.

Apple Watch doesn't include a multitasking feature like its iPhone companion, so there's no way to show active apps or swipe up to force-close one. Watch is an extension of the iPhone, not a replacement, so including a fully-functional multitasking feature seems impractical.

So while you can't truly multitask, there is a simple trick that'll allow you to quickly switch to your last used application.

While using your Apple Watch, all you have to do is double-click the Digital Crown and you'll be directed to the last app you were using. Essentially, you'll be able to switch between the last two apps you were in pretty seamlessly with this feature.

Close-up of a smartwatch on a textured surface.

While it may not be multitasking as we've come to know it, it is useful and very easily executed. I don't plan on switching between too many apps on the small display, so this action will certainly suffice.

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Apple's iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 updates are packed with new features, and you can try them before almost everyone else. First, check our list of supported iPhone and iPad models, then follow our step-by-step guide to install the iOS/iPadOS 26 beta — no paid developer account required.