Samsung’s upcoming feature raises usability questions

Here are the key takeaways from this article:

• Samsung’s One UI update may introduce a double-tap gesture for checking the time on Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Flip 6, even with the screen off. This functionality leverages the RegiStar module within the Good Lock app.
• While this feature expands the Back-Tap options, its overall usefulness is debatable. Many Galaxy devices already possess always-on displays and other convenient time-checking methods like raising the phone.
• The true value of this double-tap gesture remains unclear. It might not significantly improve user experience or address a specific user pain point.

The rumor mill churns out another tidbit regarding Samsung’s upcoming software update. This time, the focus is on a seemingly niche feature – checking the time on your Galaxy phone by double-tapping the back panel, even when the screen is off.

According to tipster Tarun Vats, Samsung is developing an update for the RegiStar module within the Good Lock app. This update supposedly introduces new functionality for the next-generation Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Flip 6. With this feature, users can check the time with a simple double-tap on the back of the phone, regardless of whether the display is on or off.

The RegiStar module, launched with Android 13-based One UI 5, empowers Galaxy phone users to customize their interface. It allows for actions like taking screenshots with a double-tap gesture on the back panel, alongside modifying the functionality of the long-pressed side key. Currently, the Back-Tap feature only works when the display is active. However, Samsung’s upcoming One UI 6.1.1 update aims to change that, specifically for the Z Fold 6 and Flip 6.

This feature has the potential to expand to encompass a wider range of Galaxy devices in the future. A broader rollout is anticipated with the release of One UI 7, likely Samsung’s iteration of Android 15.

On the surface, this feature appears to be a logical extension of the Back-Tap option in RegiStar. It might seem particularly useful in scenarios where the display’s visibility is compromised, such as under bright sunlight.

However, a significant portion of popular Galaxy devices already boast always-on displays. Additionally, users can readily check the time with a simple tap or by raising the phone, thanks to existing features. This begs the question – how practical is the new double-tap-to-check-time feature? It remains unclear whether this method will significantly enhance the user experience or address a specific, yet unidentified, user need.