Picture this: You jolt awake to the shrill cry of your iPhone alarm, fumbling to silence it as you always have—only to find that tapping won't cut it anymore. Apple has just shaken up the way you turn off those pesky morning alerts, potentially turning your groggy routine into a mini-adventure. But don't worry, there's a way to reclaim the old familiar tap if nostalgia calls to you. Stick around, because this shift in iOS might just spark some strong opinions about simplicity versus fun.
Nov 05, 2025
If you've been loyal to the iPhone family for years, you probably recall the era of 'slide to unlock.' Back then, to access your device, you had to drag your finger across the screen in a deliberate swipe. It was Apple's clever safeguard against accidental unlocks—like when your phone bumped against something in your pocket or you brushed it unintentionally. This feature ensured your iPhone stayed locked until you intentionally interacted with it, adding a layer of security and intentionality to the experience.
Then came iOS 10, when Apple phased out that sliding motion for a simpler press of the Home button, followed by a swipe up from the bottom. For nearly ten years, a rightward swipe on the Lock Screen whisked you to the 'Today View,' packed with handy widgets. Change can be refreshing, and I'm not advocating for a full return to slide to unlock—it's not practical for today's quick-access needs. Still, I can't help but feel a twinge of affection for the tactile charm of my old iPhone 3GS. Nostalgia has a way of tugging at our hearts, doesn't it? And this is the part most people miss: how those small, interactive gestures made using the phone feel more engaging and personal.
But here's where it gets controversial—Apple is resurrecting that sliding action, though not for unlocking your phone. Surprisingly, it's now the default for dismissing alarms. Yes, you read that right: Instead of tapping to snooze or stop, you'll need to slide across the screen. Visualize the scene: One early morning, you tap frantically to hush that relentless alarm, but nothing happens. Frustrated and half-asleep, you peer closer at the display to spot the new 'Slide to stop' prompt staring back at you. If you're anything like me, you'll reluctantly follow the cue, sliding your finger to silence it, only to forget about the change and repeat the confusion the very next day. It's a bit like rediscovering an old trick, but not everyone will find it charming.
This update rolls out with iOS 26.1, which hit devices on Monday, and it's not optional right away. After updating, your first alarm or timer will feature this slider (while keeping the 'snooze' and 'repeat' options as handy buttons). Personally, I'm on board with it—it injects a dash of nostalgia and playfulness from iOS's early days, making mundane tasks feel a tad more interactive. For example, imagine turning off a cooking timer with a satisfying slide instead of a quick tap; it could add a subtle thrill to everyday moments. That said, not everyone will agree this is an improvement. But if this new slide requirement rubs you the wrong way and you prefer the straightforward tap to mute alarms and timers, the good news is you're not stuck with it.
How to disable 'slide to stop alarm'
Apple has tucked away the option to switch back to the traditional tap-to-dismiss method, so it's understandable if you didn't even know it existed. You won't spot it in the Clock app's settings, which can be puzzling at first glance—why hide such a user preference there? Instead, it's nestled in a broader system setting designed for accessibility, called 'Prefer Single-Touch Actions.'
Activating this feature disables sliders throughout iOS, swapping them out for straightforward buttons. In this case, it transforms that 'Slide to stop' into a simple 'off' button, bringing back the ease you're used to. To locate and enable it, navigate to Settings > Accessibility > Touch, and then flip the toggle next to 'Prefer Single-Touch Actions.' It's a quick adjustment that restores the familiar feel for those who dislike the extra motion. For beginners, think of it as a global tweak that makes interactions less complex, potentially aiding users with motor challenges or those who just prefer minimal effort.
Now, here's a thought-provoking twist: Is this revival of sliding a clever nod to iOS history, or just Apple forcing unnecessary friction into our lives for the sake of 'fun'? Some might argue it encourages mindfulness by requiring a deliberate action, reducing accidental dismissals—kind of like a built-in pause to wake you up more fully. Others could see it as a step backward, prioritizing whimsy over efficiency in an age of smart shortcuts. What do you think? Does this change evoke fond memories or annoyance for you? Share your take in the comments—do you love the throwback, hate the hassle, or have a counterpoint I haven't considered? Let's discuss!
